Your Ankles
The ankle is made up of two joints and three bones. It is a very complex structure. This part of the foot and ankle is responsible for the up and down and side to side movements of the foot, without which, we wouldn’t be able to walk, ride a bike, or drive a car – many of the actions we perform each day.
Ankle pain can develop after injury or as a result of a chronic condition, such as arthritis. Signs of ankle problems can be any of the following:
- Ankle weakness and instability
- Difficulty or pain when walking
- Pain on the outer side of the ankle
- Arthritis in the ankle
- Stiffness, swelling and tenderness
- If you suffer repeated ankle sprains
- Wear well-structured and proper fitting shoes
Sometimes conditions and injuries are unpreventable. However, there are things you can do to minimize the risk of ankle injury. In order to help keep your ankles healthy PMPT recommends the following:
- Strengthen your ankles with exercise like walking and flexing the foot up and down
- Stretch the muscles around your ankle before and after activity
- Examine your ankles and be aware of any pain, discomfort, or changes
Make note of problems, irregularities, or pain that you experience. Nobody should have to live with foot and ankle disorders.