A little twist or stumble can leave your ankle sore, but what if the pain doesn’t disappear? Oregon Institute of Foot Care LLC (serving Portland, Lake Oswego, and West Linn) sees many people with pain that lingers longer than expected. Persistent discomfort, swelling, or stiffness may signal more than a basic sprain.
When Ankle Pain Is More Than Just a Sprain
Most people think of a sprain when they feel sudden ankle pain. While that’s often the case, not all pain heals with rest. If the symptoms get worse, come and go, or last more than a few days, it could mean more going on. From overuse injuries to instability, ankle problems vary in cause and severity. Ignoring the pain may lead to longer healing times or more complex conditions down the road.
Common Causes of Ankle Pain
Sprained ankles are among the most frequent reasons people seek care. They happen when ligaments are stretched or torn. Achilles tendonitis develops from overuse and causes pain behind the ankle, especially in runners or active individuals.
Pain on the outside of the foot may indicate a peroneal tendon injury, which affects balance and motion. Other causes of chronic ankle pain include ankle instability, arthritis, or even small bone injuries that don’t show up right away.
Signs You Should See a Podiatrist
If walking becomes painful or your ankle is swollen, it’s time to visit a professional. Look for signs like tenderness, weakness, or recurring pain during activity. Lingering symptoms may mean more than just a simple sprain; they could require medical attention. Not sure when to see a podiatrist for ankle pain? If the issue disrupts your daily movement, don’t wait.
Advanced Diagnosis and Treatment Options
At Oregon Institute of Foot Care LLC, we begin with a detailed evaluation to identify the actual cause of your ankle pain. This includes a physical exam, strength and mobility testing, and diagnostic imaging such as X-rays or ultrasound. These tools help us assess everything from ligament damage to tendon injuries and bone conditions. Learn more about how we treat ankle and leg pain.
Understanding the full picture allows us to recommend the most effective next steps. Treatment depends on the severity and type of condition. For mild injuries, we may suggest rest, bracing, physical therapy, or custom orthotics. More complex cases, like ankle instability or tendon tears, may require injections, immobilization, or surgical repair.
Why Choose Oregon Institute of Foot Care?
If you’re from the Portland, Lake Oswego, and West Linn areas, we bring experience and compassion to every visit. Whether you’re dealing with pain while walking or running, or recovering from a fall, we’re here to help you move better. From sprained ankles to tendon injuries, our team provides dependable, honest care without rushing decisions.
Schedule an Appointment Today
Take the first step toward relief and schedule your appointment with a Portland foot and ankle specialist. Let Oregon Institute of Foot Care LLC help restore your mobility and reduce your discomfort starting today.