Lower limb injuries causing strained muscles, torn ligaments and even broken bones, are most often associated with contact sports or overexertion. The feet and lower legs also are vulnerable to a range of disorders from joint and tendon inflammation to strained or ruptured ligaments. With rest, ice, compression and elevation, the body can recover from minor injuries in a short period. Other disorders, such as arthritis, are chronic or long-term conditions.
Sprained Ankle
The ankle joint is supported on each side by ligaments that run from the ends of the bones of the lower leg, the tibia and fibula, down the sides of the ankle bone --- the talus and the heel bone --- the calcaneus. There is also a ligament across the front of the ankle. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, a sprain of one or more of these ligaments is the most common ankle injury, usually caused by an awkward twist of the ankle. A sprained ankle not only causes pain in the foot and ankle area, but also in the lower leg, as well.
Fractured Ankle
A broken ankle can sometimes be difficult to confirm, as it could simply be a sprained ligament. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, a sprain can cause as much pain and swelling as a broken bone. It can also be as painful to bear weight on the ankle even if it is not broken. After any painful injury to an ankle, it is important to have an X-ray to confirm the diagnosis.
Achilles Tendinitis
The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles at the back of the lower leg to the heel bone or calcaneus. Achilles tendinitis is inflammation of this tendon, causing pain from the back of the foot, all of the way into the calf muscle. Pain seems to be worse in the morning, but subsides somewhat with movement. According to MayoClinic.com, Achilles tendinitis comes on gradually and can get worse over time, causing the lower leg to become weak.
Peripheral Edema
Swelling of the ankles is a symptom of fluid retention in the tissues. One of several causes is heart failure, in which the heart's ventricles are not emptying properly. Blood retained in the right ventricle causes a buildup of blood and pressure through the circulation, forcing fluid out into the surrounding tissues. The ankles, in particular, become swollen and painful because the effect of gravity pulls the fluid down into the feet. If not treated, this swelling can progress into the lower legs and can be extremely painful and debilitating.
