The ankle functions to move the foot as well as absorb shock from the weight of the body. Running can put an enormous amount of stress on the ankles. For this reason, the ankle is susceptible to pain and injuries. Ankle pain after running may be caused by several things, either acute or chronic.
Causes
Acute causes of ankle pain after running include sprains, strains, tendinitis, ruptured tendon, stress fracture and fracture. These conditions usually occur from overuse, improper warm-up or cool down, inadequate stretching and wearing incorrect running shoes. Chronic ankle pain can occur after an injury that has not healed properly, like a sprained ankle. When an injury does not heal properly, the muscles and ligaments are left weak and prone to injury or pain. Chronic ankle pain may also be caused by torn tendons, inflammation of tendons, damage to the nerves in the ankle, fracture, arthritis, and scar tissue within the ankle.
Symptoms
Ankle pain will present differently depending on the cause. For example, Achilles tendinitis might present with pain along the back of the ankle and heel. Sprains and strains can occur along both the inner and outer ankle. Stress fractures and fractures can cause pain anywhere on the foot and ankle, depending on where the fracture is located. You may also experience other symptoms in addition to pain such as swelling, decreased range of motion and inability to bear weight on the affected ankle.
Treatment
Most minor ankle injuries only require treatment at home with the rest, ice, compression and elevation (RICE) method, notes the Mayo Clinic. The first step in treatment is rest. Avoid doing any activities that exacerbate the pain, including running, and try to stay off your foot as much as you can. This will help the injury heal, as well as prevent the injury from worsening. Also try to ice your foot for 15 minutes several times a day. Ice will help decrease swelling and inflammation. Using a compression bandage such as an ace bandage or compression sleeve will also help decrease swelling and provide support. Elevating the foot will also help drain fluid from the ankle and decrease swelling. Try to keep your foot above the heart to get the maximum benefit. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen and aspirin may be used to reduce pain and inflammation.
Expert Insight
The Mayo Clinic recommends that you go to the hospital immediately if you cannot bear weight on your foot or if you have severe swelling and pain. See your doctor if the pain does not resolve after several weeks of conservative treatment, swelling does not decrease after two to three days or if you have swelling, pain or stiffness that is worse after running or in the morning.
Prevention
Medline Plus offers these tips to avoid ankle pain and injury in the future. Lose weight to reduce the amount of stress put on the ankles. Stretch the muscles in your leg and ankle before running. This will help increase flexibility and reduce the risk of injury. Warm up properly prior to exercise. Wear shoes that provide enough support, cushioning, shock absorption and are not too worn. Wear an ankle brace or bandage to provide support if you have a history of ankle sprains or injuries.
