The ankle is a mobile joint that connects the bones of the leg and foot. It is composed of bones, ligaments, tendons and muscles, notes MayoClinic.com. Injury to either the bones, tendons or ligaments in the ankle results in pain. Sudden Injuries as well as an underlying medical condition can result in pain on the inside or outside of the ankles.
Broken Ankle
According to MayoClinic.com, a broken ankle is a relatively common condition due to the significant number of bones in the foot and ankle joint. Symptoms commonly associated with a broken ankle include an inability to walk, swelling, a sudden throbbing pain in the ankles, bruising, tenderness and deformity. Risk factors for a broken ankle include being overweight, using improper sports equipment and participating in high impact sports such as football, hockey and gymnastics. Medical conditions such as osteoporosis also increase an individual's susceptibility to suffering from a broken ankle. Over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen is administered to relieve pain in the ankles and a cast is also used to immobilize the ankle and help in the healing process.
Tendinitis
Tendons are fibrous tissues that connect the bones and muscles and they help the muscles in moving the connected bone. Tendinitis is an inflammation of the tendons resulting in pain and swelling of the ankle and any other involved joint. Tendinitis is usually caused by a sudden injury or repetitive movements. Individuals who play sports such as basketball, swimming and golf have a higher risk of developing tendinitis. Treatment options for tendinitis include over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen as well as resting and icing the ankles.
Cauda Equina Syndrome
According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, cauda equinea syndrome is a medical condition in which the nerve roots in the spinal cord become compressed and paralyzed. Cauda equina syndrome may be caused by an infection, a ruptured disk, a tumor, fracture or narrowing of the spinal canal. Symptoms commonly associated with this medical disorder include pain or numbness in ankles, legs, thighs and back of the legs. Loss of sensation in the lower extremities, problems controlling the bladder and bowel movement are also commonly associated with cauda equina syndrome. Permanent paralysis can occur if the patient does not receive immediate treatment.
