Ankle tendon problems can result from injury or overuse, causing inflammation, tears, and tendinosis. Diagnosis is made through X-rays, and treatment may include ice, rest, medication, and surgery for extreme cases.
Ankle tendon problems often result from injury, although the tendons can weaken over time and cause problems as well. The most common problems affecting the ankle tendons are inflammation, tears and tears. The Achilles tendon, which connects the heel and calf muscle; the peroneal tendons along the outside of the lower leg; and the posterior tibialis tendon attached to the back of the shinbone are the ones most commonly affected by ankle injuries and other problems.
Tendonitis is inflammation of a tendon. Inflammation is often the result of repetitive motion, such as running or jumping. Swelling may or may not be evident on the outside of the ankle and does not always cause pain. Tendonitis is often a precursor to other problems with the ankle tendons, however, so people with it should refrain from activities that place stress on the ankles until the tendon has healed.
The tendons in the ankle can tear, causing pain and loss of strength in the ankle. Microtears in the tendons result in a condition caused by tendinosis, which is usually the result of overuse of the ankle. This condition is often found in individuals with tendonitis. These little tears usually come on slowly and gradually, and people with tendinosis may not experience any symptoms. Over time, these small tears can lead to a larger partial tear or complete rupture of the tendon.
Partially torn or ruptured ankle tendons are more likely to cause pain and weakness. The pain may be persistent, but is often only noticeable when walking, running, or twisting the ankle. Doctors use X-rays to diagnose tears, ruptures, and other tendon problems in the ankle. In many cases, ice, rest, immobilization, and pain and swelling medications are all that is needed for an ankle tendon to heal properly.
Ankle bursitis can cause swelling, pain, and difficulty moving and walking. Bursitis occurs when a sac between the tendon and a bone swells. Infections, arthritis, gout, and repetitive pressure on the ankle are the most common causes of ankle bursitis. Treatment usually involves alternating ice and heat and may include antibiotics and other treatments for underlying conditions that may have contributed to the bursitis.
Surgery to correct tendon problems in the ankle is usually only needed for extreme injuries, such as a tear that spans the entire tendon. Surgeons can open the ankle to surgically repair the tendon. Sometimes a doctor can remove tissue around the tendon, which could cause irritation.
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