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Understanding the Ankle Joint
The ankle joint, more accurately described as a complex of three joints working together, connects the lower leg bones to the foot and manages forces of several times body weight during normal walking and far greater forces during running and jumping. It relies on the coordinated function of ligaments, joint capsule, surrounding tendons, and the deep stabilising muscles of the lower leg to maintain stability while allowing the range of movement needed for normal function.
When any of these components is compromised, the result is not just local ankle pain but a cascade of compensatory changes throughout the lower limb, affecting the knee, hip, pelvis, and lumbar spine. This is why ankle pain that is not properly assessed and treated can contribute to problems elsewhere in the body over time.
Common Causes of Back Pain
The ankle pain presentations we see most frequently in clinic include:
Ankle Sprains
An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments supporting the ankle are stretched or torn, most commonly through an inversion injury where the foot rolls inward. Lateral ankle sprains, which affect the ligaments on the outer side of the ankle, are among the most common injuries in both sport and everyday activity. While a first-time sprain may resolve with basic management, inadequately treated sprains frequently result in persistent joint stiffness, proprioceptive deficits, and chronic instability that predispose the ankle to repeated injury.
Chronic Ankle Instability
Chronic ankle instability is a common consequence of repeated sprains or inadequately rehabilitated first-time injuries. The ankle gives way unpredictably, particularly on uneven ground, and may feel weak and unreliable during physical activity. This instability is driven by a combination of ligamentous laxity and impaired proprioception, the joint’s ability to sense its own position, and requires a targeted rehabilitation approach to resolve effectively.
Peroneal Tendinopathy
The peroneal tendons run along the outer aspect of the ankle and play an important role in lateral stability. Tendinopathy in these structures typically presents as outer ankle pain that is worsened by activity and may be associated with visible swelling along the tendon line. It is common in runners and in patients with a history of repeated ankle sprains.
Anterior Ankle Impingement
Anterior impingement occurs when soft tissue or bony structures are pinched at the front of the ankle during dorsiflexion, the movement of bringing the foot upward toward the shin. It produces a deep aching or sharp sensation at the front of the ankle during squatting, climbing, or running and is common in athletes, particularly footballers and dancers.
Post-Fracture Ankle Pain
Following an ankle fracture, even after full bone healing has occurred, patients frequently experience residual joint stiffness, soft tissue tightness, and altered movement patterns that require specific treatment to resolve. Chiropractic mobilisation and rehabilitation can significantly improve outcomes in the post-fracture period.
How We Treat Ankle Pain
Joint Assessment and Mobilisation
Your chiropractor will carry out a thorough assessment of the ankle joint complex, evaluating the range of movement available, identifying any joint restriction, and assessing the integrity of the surrounding ligaments and tendons. Joint mobilisation and adjustment techniques are used to restore normal movement to restricted ankle joints and to address any dysfunction in the subtalar joint, which sits just below the main ankle joint and plays an important role in foot mechanics.
Soft Tissue Therapy
Manual therapy to the muscles and tendons around the ankle addresses the soft tissue tightness and adhesions that develop following injury or overuse. This is particularly important for patients with peroneal tendinopathy or post-sprain soft tissue changes that are restricting movement and contributing to ongoing pain.
Proprioceptive and Strength Rehabilitation
Restoring strength and proprioception to the ankle is the most critical component of recovery from both acute sprain and chronic instability. A structured rehabilitation programme progressively challenges the neuromuscular control of the ankle, building the stability needed to prevent further injury. This phase of treatment is essential and is frequently overlooked in standard ankle management.
Related Conditions
Ankle pain often presents alongside or contributes to the following conditions:
condition
Understanding the Ankle Joint
condition
Common Causes of Ankle Pain
Ankle Sprains
Chronic Ankle Instability
Peroneal Tendinopathy
Anterior Ankle Impingement
Post-Fracture Ankle Pain
condition
How We Treat Ankle Pain
Joint Assessment and Mobilisation
Soft Tissue Therapy
Proprioceptive and Strength Rehabilitation
condition
Related Conditions
Ankle pain often presents alongside or contributes to the following conditions:
- Sports Injuries
- Hip and Joint Pain
- Back Pain
- Arthritis
- Muscle Spasms
faqs
Frequently Asked Questions
My ankle sprain happened months ago. Is it too late to get it properly treated?
How do I know if I have broken my ankle rather than sprained it?
Can ankle instability be fixed without surgery?
Will orthotics help my ankle pain?
GETTING HERE
Conditions
OTHER RELATED CONDITIONS
We provide personalised care for a variety of conditions, ensuring treatment is tailored to your unique needs.
Booking
Book Your Ankle Pain Assessment in Manchester
Do not let a poorly healed ankle become a long-term problem. Call 07827 139839, email info@ancoatschiropractic.co.uk, or book online.