FAQs
One of the best ways to manage ankle pain conservatively is to use arch supports. Custom arch support orthotics are available at our Commack podiatry office to help reduce ankle pain. These orthotics help return your feet to proper alignment and prevent ankle issues.
Can bad arches cause ankle pain? ›
Most people have no symptoms associated with flatfeet. But some people with flatfeet experience foot pain, particularly in the heel or arch area. Pain may worsen with activity. Swelling may occur along the inside of the ankle.
Should I wear an ankle brace if my ankle hurts? ›
You're very likely to benefit from wearing an ankle brace if you have a significant ankle ligament tear (Grade 2 or 3). (Read more about the grading of ankle ligament tears.) Minor ankle sprains usually don't require a brace, but Grade 2 and 3 sprains can benefit from one.
What is the best position for ankle pain? ›
Within the first 24 to 48 hours of the onset of an ankle problem you should try to: reduce your activities but move as much as your symptoms allow. put your ankle in an elevated position, when resting. move your ankle gently for 10 to 20 seconds every hour when you're awake.
What is good to take for ankle pain? ›
Elevation. Raise the foot above the level of the heart to help reduce swelling. Pain medicines you can get without a prescription. Medicines such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) and naproxen sodium (Aleve) can ease pain and aid healing.
Can lack of arch support cause ankle swelling? ›
It's usually painless, but your ankles could hurt or swell if they get out of line with your knees. Arch supports and supportive shoes can help. So can specially designed physical therapy exercises.
Can flat shoes make your ankles hurt? ›
Flat shoes with open backs, like flip flops and mules, can pose increased risk because there's no ankle support. Shoes without ankle support make sprains, strains, and ankle pain more likely, particularly if you're on your feet a lot while wearing them.
How do you get rid of ankle pain ASAP? ›
Sit in a comfortable position, with the ankle elevated to reduce swelling. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, can also help alleviate swelling and pain. If possible, wear a temporary brace or bandage to support the joint and prevent it from moving.
Does walking reduce ankle pain? ›
That may sound counterintuitive, but the best way to treat ankle pain while walking is to improve the mobility and strength of your ankle joint, says Dr. Cotic. “Walking and doing targeted ankle strengthening and stretching exercises are some of the best ways to do that.”
How should I sleep to relieve ankle pain? ›
Elevate your leg at night — Elevating your ankle helps drain any fluid collected in it, which can reduce swelling and relieve pain. If possible, sleep with your leg up on a pillow to keep it elevated all night.
There are different things that can cause ongoing ankle pain, and different treatments will apply to different causes. Arthritis in your joints, for example, can be a major cause of ankle pain. A torn tendon or a previous injury, like a break or a sprain, can cause ongoing problems.
What vitamin is good for ankle pain? ›
Vitamin B-12 Treatments for Healthier Feet
If you have pain in your feet or ankles, vitamin B-12 injections could be an effective solution for you.
What can I drink for ankle pain? ›
If there's a magical elixir to drink, it's water. Hydration is vital for flushing toxins out of your body, which can help fight inflammation. Adequate water intake can help keep your joints well lubricated and prevent gout attacks. Drinking water before a meal can also help you eat less, promoting weight loss.
How do you know if you have bad arches? ›
Checking for fallen arches or flat feet is fairly simple. Stand upright in bare feet and ask a friend to look at the inner side of your foot. If the entire length of your foot is touching the ground, then you have a fallen arch or flat foot.
What are the symptoms of a dropped arch? ›
Symptoms may include:
- Leg cramps.
- Muscle pain (aching or fatigue) in the foot or leg.
- Pain in the arch, ankle, heel or outside of the foot.
- Pain when walking or changes in your gait (how you walk).
- Toe drift (front part of the foot and toes point outward).
Ankle instability: High arch feet can cause ankle instability and increase your risk for ankle sprains. Metatarsal fractures: Because high arches can cause repeated stress, people with the condition may develop hairline fractures in the bones of the foot.
What pain can high arches cause? ›
High arches are a common cause of metatarsalgia. This is a painful inflammation of the ball of the foot. Metatarsalgia usually improves when you rest and worsens during standing, walking, or exercising. Flexing your foot can also worsen your pain.
