Ankle

The ankle is a hinge joint. It is made up of three bones: the tibia, fibula, and talus. The ankle must be able to withstand 1.5 times the body weight when walking and up to 8 times when running.

Fractures

A fractured bone in the ankle can cause instability when walking or running.

Symptoms:

  • Pain
  • Swelling
  • Bruising
  • Tenderness
  • Unable to weight bear

Diagnostic Procedures:

  • Provider Examination
  • X-ray
  • Stress Test
  • MRI
  • CT
Ligament Tears

The ligaments of the ankle hold the ankle bones in position and stabilize the joint.

Symptoms:

  • Swelling
  • Bruising
  • Tenderness
  • Instability
  • Feeling a pop when injured

Diagnostic Procedures:

  • Provider Examination including a range of motion testing
  • X-rays
  • MRI
  • Ultrasound
Sprains

An ankle sprain is the most common ankle injury. A sprain is a stretching injury to the ligaments connecting the ankle bones.

Symptoms:

  • Pain
  • Swelling
  • Bruising
  • Instability

Diagnostic Procedures:

  • Provider Examination
  • X-rays
  • MRI
  • CT
Arthritis

Arthritis is inflammation of the Joint which causes pain and stiffness in the joint.

Symptoms:

  • Pain with activity
  • Tenderness
  • Swelling
  • Difficulty walking

Diagnostic Procedures:

  • Provider Examination including a gait analysis
  • X-rays
  • MRI
  • CT
  • Lab tests