Your feet help you move every day. But what happens when your ankle starts to hurt? Many people feel pain in the front part of the ankle. This is called Front Ankle Pain. It might seem small at first. But it can lead to bigger problems if you don’t treat it.
At the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona, we want to help you stay healthy. Our goal is to give you the right care at the right time. Let’s learn more about Front Ankle Pain and what to do about it.
What Is Front Ankle Pain?
Front ankle pain means your ankle hurts at the top or front. You may feel pain when walking, standing, or bending your foot. This pain can be sharp or dull. It can happen suddenly or slowly over time.
This part of your ankle helps lift your foot up. If it gets hurt, even simple steps can feel hard.
What Causes Front Ankle Pain?
There are many reasons for Front Ankle Pain. Here are the most common ones:
1. Tendon Problems
Tendons are strong bands that connect muscles to bones. If they get tight or swollen, they can hurt. This often happens from too much walking, running, or bad shoes.
One study found that tendon injuries are common in runners and workers who stand a lot.
2. Ankle Sprains
You may twist your ankle while walking or playing. This can stretch or tear the ligaments. A sprain doesn’t always hurt the side. It can also cause pain in the front of the ankle.
Sprains need care and rest to heal well.
3. Ankle Impingement
This means the bones or soft tissues in your ankle are rubbing too much. It causes pain, swelling, and stiffness. This is common in athletes, dancers, and people who move a lot.
4. Arthritis or Joint Wear
As you get older, the soft parts in your joints may wear down. This is called arthritis. It can cause Front Ankle Pain, stiffness, and swelling.
Over 30 million people in the U.S. suffer from some form of arthritis.
5. Overuse and Repeated Motion
Doing the same action every day, like running or standing for hours, can tire your ankle. This overuse can lead to pain in the front of your ankle.
6. Flat Feet or High Arches
If your feet are flat or have high arches, you may walk differently. This puts stress on the front of the ankle. It can cause pain or injury.
Dr. Kris A. DiNucci often helps patients fix this with custom insoles.
7. Bone Spurs
Sometimes, tiny bone growths form in your ankle joint. These bone spurs press on soft parts and cause pain. It often hurts when you bend your ankle.
How to Treat Front Ankle Pain
Here’s what you can do if you feel pain in your front ankle:
1. Rest Your Ankle
Stop walking or running for a while. Let your ankle rest. Keep your foot raised. This helps reduce swelling.
2. Use Ice
Apply ice for 15–20 minutes, 3 to 4 times a day. This can reduce swelling and numb the pain.
3. Wear Good Shoes
Bad shoes make ankle pain worse. Wear shoes that support your feet. Avoid tight or flat shoes.
4. Try Gentle Exercises
Simple stretches can help your ankle heal. But always talk to a doctor before doing exercises.
5. Use a Brace or Support
An ankle brace may help you move safely. It gives your joint support while it heals. Ask your doctor if it’s right for you.
6. Check Foot Alignment
Your feet should line up with your legs. If not, it can stress your ankles. Custom orthotics can help fix alignment and ease pain.
“Custom orthotics often fix pain caused by poor foot structure,” says Dr. Kris A. DiNucci.
7. Get Medical Help
If your pain does not go away, see a foot and ankle expert. You may need tests like an X-ray or MRI. These tests help find deeper problems.
When Should You See a Doctor?
You should visit a doctor if:
- Pain lasts more than 3–5 days
- Your ankle is swollen or bruised
- You can’t stand or walk well
- You feel numbness or tingling
- Pain keeps getting worse
“If pain stays after two days of rest, see a doctor,” says Dr. DiNucci.
Why Choose Us?
At the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona, your care is our top focus. We are located in beautiful Scottsdale, AZ. Dr. Kris A. DiNucci, our skilled foot and ankle surgeon, will guide you at every step.
We will:
- Listen to your concerns
- Use the best tools to find the cause
- Make a simple, clear care plan
- Help you feel better step by step
We treat every patient with kindness and respect. Our staff is friendly and always ready to help.
FAQs
What causes front ankle pain the most?
A: It can come from tendon problems, sprains, or overuse. A doctor can help find the cause.
Should I go to a doctor if the pain is small?
A: Yes. Even small pain can grow worse if not treated early.
Can I use home care for front ankle pain?
A: Rest, ice, and good shoes may help. But if pain lasts, see a specialist.
Take the First Step Toward Relief
Front Ankle Pain should never be ignored. Your ankle pain is a sign that something is wrong. Getting help early can stop bigger problems later.
At the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona, we’re here for you. Let us help you walk without pain again.
Contact us today or visit our Request Appointment page to get started. Let your next step be the right one—with us by your side.
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- This is called Front Ankle Pain. It might seem small at first. But it can lead to bigger problems if you don’t treat it.
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