Inflammation in the ankle
introduction
Inflammation of the ankle is rare, but basically there are few causes. On the one hand, especially in the elderly, it can be an activated osteoarthritis. In younger people, on the other hand, incorrect and excessive stress can be the cause. Rheumatic diseases, autoimmune diseases or infections of the joint are less likely to be responsible for the symptoms.
An inflammation of the joint itself manifests itself as swelling and overheating, usually accompanied by pain and restricted mobility.
Another condition that is common but not an ankle inflammation per se is tendonitis. This leads in particular to pain and restricted mobility, but hardly any real swelling or redness.
Causes of Joint Inflammation
As mentioned at the beginning, inflammation of the ankle joint is not common, but it is a serious matter. Joint inflammation can lead to a lack of therapy Damage to the articular cartilage with possible permanent damage, pain and restricted mobility.
There are five main causes for ankle inflammation and other rarer causes. The most common causes include:
- activated osteoarthritis
- Inflammation from excessive and improper exposure
- rheumatic diseases
- Autoimmune diseases
- Metabolic diseases
Activated osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a so-called degenerative disease, i.e. one Wear and tear disease. Years of movement and stress on a joint can lead to the Cartilage abraded and then the bones no longer have a protective cartilage coating. This creates a painful friction the two bone surfaces of a joint when moving.
Since every joint is encased in a joint capsule containing synovial fluid, there is little exchange between substances inside and outside the joint capsule, so that worn cartilage is removed accumulates in the synovial fluid and cannot be transported out of the joint.
At a activated osteoarthritis it is an inflammatory process that arises from the so-called scavenger and defense cells of the Immune system (the macrophages and leukocytes) enter the joint capsule. These phagocytes clear the abraded cartilage and other wear products from the joint capsule, as these substances cannot easily get out of the capsule.
This inflammatory process usually lasts some days, is also known as "Osteoarthritis attack"and is very painful. It should be anti-inflammatory drugs like Diclofenac or Celebrex® be taken to contain the inflammation and prevent an excessive inflammatory reaction.
You can read more information on this topic here: Ankle arthrosis
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Athletes (joggers, soccer players, etc.) are particularly often affected by diseases of the foot. In some cases, the cause of the foot discomfort cannot be identified at first.
Therefore, the treatment of the foot (e.g. Achilles tendonitis, heel spurs, etc.) requires a lot of experience.
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Inflammation due to improper exercise
Massive (incorrect) stresses in the area of the ankle also damage the joint, usually with very small cracks, compression and cartilage abrasion. In the worst case, such stress can lead to swelling, redness and pain in the joint. This is not a classic inflammation, but a very similar mechanism that is supposed to help repair the damaged joint structures.
Such a massive improper load is very rare, as it usually comes before a tendonitis in this area. This is explained in more detail below.
You can find more information about this here: Cartilage damage in the ankle
Infections
A very rare cause of ankle inflammation is bacterial infection. This actually does not just happen, but mainly only after interventions on the joint, such as arthroscopy. This is a very rare but all the more serious complication that requires effective therapy as quickly as possible.
For more information on this topic : Complications of arthroscopy
Rheumatic diseases
Rheumatic diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, can also lead to inflammation of the ankle or tendinitis in rheumatism. Inflammation of the finger joints is much more typical, but theoretically any joint can be affected by the inflammation. Joint inflammation (so-called psoriatic arthritis) can also occur in the context of psoriasis (psoriasis).
Especially in children and adolescents, infections of the respiratory tract can lead to inflammation in the ankles (so-called reactive arthritis), which is caused by an overactive immune system. As a rheumatic cause of inflammation in the ankle joint diseases from the group of juvenile polyartritis can also be considered in children. These are the rheumatism diseases in children, so to speak, and they are all accompanied by inflammation of the joints.
You can find more information on this topic here : Rheumatism
Autoimmune diseases
Acute sarcoid, also known as Löfgren's syndrome, is very typical for painful inflammation in the ankle joints, especially in younger women. In addition to inflammation of the ankle joints, painful, red lumps on the skin of the legs and enlarged lymph nodes in the lungs also develop.
Other autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus, can in principle target components of the joints and thus lead to inflammation.
Read more about this under: Autoimmune diseases
Metabolic disorders
Some metabolic disorders can also lead to inflammation in the ankles due to crystal deposits. These crystals arise when certain metabolic products such as uric acid or calcium are excessively present in the blood and then precipitate. Inflammation in the ankle joints is not typical for any metabolic disorder, but it is not excluded for any.
In gout, for example, uric acid crystals (so-called urate crystals) may fall out in various joints, typically in the metatarsophalangeal joint. The crystals form when there is a lot of uric acid in the blood for a long time. The pain usually develops fairly quickly within a few days and leads to painful swelling and reddening of the affected joint.
Also in the so-called pseudogout (also called chondrocalcinosis) it can be caused by crystal deposits, in this case calcium phosphate crystals, in the joints. Typically, in addition to the joints, menisci and intervertebral discs are also affected and therefore painful. The cause of this is not yet fully understood, but a connection with other diseases, such as diabetes, is seen.
You can read more information on this topic here:
- Attack of gout
- Chondrocalcinosis
Non-inflammatory causes
Much more common than true ankle inflammation is inflammation of neighboring structures of the joint and other diseases that can lead to swelling of the joint. Here is a brief overview.
Tendon injuries and tendinitis
Injuries to the tendons of the ankle are common. They can occur as part of a compression or twisting of the foot. However, it does not always have to be the acute accidents that those affected painfully remember. Chronic, i.e. permanent overloading of the tendon apparatus also leaves microscopic marks on the tendons, which impair their stability and their smooth functioning.
One speaks of tendinosis when the tissue of a tendon perishes due to repeated damage or permanent overload, i.e. degenerates. This phenomenon can also occur in the ankle area and lead to chronic pain.
If there are additional signs of inflammation such as redness, swelling and overheating, one speaks of tendinitis, an inflammation of the tendons in the foot. It also arises on the ground of constant irritation or repeated injury. If the affected muscles and joints are not spared when tendinosis or tendinitis occurs, the diseased tendon heals with scarring. In addition to their stability, this also influences their ability to slide in the tendon sheath. Persistent pain when moving and repeated inflammatory conditions can result. A common tendinitis in the ankle area is so-called Achilles tendinitis.
In addition, inflammatory processes in the area of the tendon sheaths (technical term: tendovaginitis) and ligaments are common diseases of the ankle. Tendonitis affects the wrist in most cases. The reason for this is the fact that this joint in particular is subjected to extensive daily stress. If the tendon sheaths in the area of the ankle become inflamed, this disease is also often associated with unusual physical stress, which leads to severe strain on the ligaments and tendons.
Please also read our article on this
- Tendonitis on the ankle
- Tendovaginits
Torn ligament
Typical diseases of the ankle include sprains and torn ligaments. Depending on the extent of the injury, a torn ligament can also impair the joint capsule and / or the bony structures. In this case, there is a severe, painful swelling of the ankle, which is then no longer fully mobile.
After a torn ligament:
If not enough time is invested in protecting and healing the joint after such severe injuries, changes in the structure and structure of the ankle joint can occur. This can lead to incorrect loading of the joint surfaces and thus to increased wear and tear of the same.
Wear and tear on the cartilage surface of joints is known as osteoarthritis and occurs primarily on joints that are subject to great stress. Knee joint arthrosis is the most common osteoarthritis in humans and the disease can also occasionally occur in the ankle. The likelihood of this is increased if the joint has been damaged as a result of injuries and joint function is impaired as a result. A torn ligament on the foot or ankle joint can also lead to osteoarthritis as a long-term consequence. Osteoarthritis should always be treated by a doctor. In severe ankle arthrosis, ankle inflammation or an acute flare-up of inflammation can also occur.
You can get more information here: Ankle ligament tear
Inflammation of the ankle is also one of the complications of surgery, as it has to be performed occasionally after a ligament rupture to restore the ligamentous apparatus.
You can get more information here: Treatment of a torn ligament
Incorrect loads
Other causes of ankle inflammation are mostly excessive strain and / or unfamiliar movements. Affected patients typically experience inflammation at the ankle sharp painthat can radiate to the tip of the foot and the lower leg.
Women who often wear high shoes also clearly show this increased risk for the development of damage and injury to the ankle.
Especially for people who are often athletic press or great physical stress exposed, there is an increased risk of developing inflammation of the tendon sheaths of the ankle. Cross-country skiers or joggers in particular often develop inflammation of the tendon sheaths of the foot muscles.
This can be done to stabilize the joint and avoid possible overloading Taping the ankle or one Ankle bandage can be created.
Symptoms
An ankle inflammation manifests itself in swelling, redness, overheating and restricted movement of the joint, accompanied by severe pain. Such an inflammation usually develops within a few days, depending on the cause, and lasts for a few weeks without therapy.
Patients with ankle inflammation usually notice stabbing or pulling pain early on. Cooling compresses usually relieve the symptoms.
also read: Pain in the outer ankle
A pronounced inflammation in the ankle leads to severe discomfort even at rest. Furthermore, a feeling of rubbing when performing movements is one of the typical symptoms of inflammation in the ankle. This rubbing sensation is usually perceived as vibrating by the affected patient. The normal range of motion is also significantly restricted if there is an inflammation in the ankle.
For more information, see: Pain in the ankle
In the case of low inflammatory processes, pain is mainly caused by movements of the ankle joint, especially when rolling the foot and while walking.
In most cases, tendinitis on the foot will heal without problems, provided the affected joint is immobilized. If the inflammatory processes persist over a longer period of time, there is a risk that the disease will develop into a chronic course. For this reason, patients who experience the symptoms should consult an orthopedic surgeon as soon as possible and appropriate treatment should be initiated.
Also read: Ankle swollen on one side
diagnosis
Diagnosing the presence of inflammation in the ankle joint involves several steps. The most important step is the detailed doctor-patient discussion (anamnesis). Above all, the exact localization and description of the pain perceived by the patient and its course over time can provide the treating doctor with an initial indication of its cause.
This doctor-patient conversation is usually followed by an orienting, physical examination of the ankle joints in a side-by-side comparison.
Typical indications of the presence of inflammation of the tendon sheaths at the ankle are Pressure pain when palpating and tapping the tendons.
In the case of rheumatological, autoimmune or infectious causes, further investigations, such as Blood teststo help clarify the cause.
If the findings are unclear, x-ray images or a Magnetic resonance imaging be effective. Especially the Exclusion of chronic diseaseswhich can lead to inflammation in the ankle area is particularly important in this context.
therapy
General measures
At a Ankle injuries can already be simple First aid measures help to relieve the symptoms effectively. Affected patients should note in this context that the affected foot must be kept until the pain has completely subsided not burdened should be. Nevertheless, the muscles should from time to time e.g. simple tensing and careful movements are activated so that they do not regress. Furthermore, the pain and the inflammatory processes can be avoided by being careful Cooling the affected foot be alleviated. However, it is particularly important that the Coolant (for example a cooling pad) never directly on the skin surface may be placed. Otherwise the skin can be seriously damaged.
You should always see a doctor to clarify the exact causes of the symptoms and to rule out a broken bone.
Medication
If you have ankle inflammation, come in the first place anti-inflammatory and pain reliever Medicines used. Here, preparations from the class of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs for short, are particularly suitable.
Typical NSAIDs used for ankle inflammation include Ibuprofen and Diclofenac. Taken as a tablet, the preparations can quickly bring about a significant improvement in symptoms. Diclofenac is also called ointment and can be applied externally to the affected parts of the body. Treatment with NSAIDs should in any case medically monitored as long-term use can lead to inflammation of the gastric mucous membranes and gastric ulcers. If necessary, a Gastric protection preparation be taken.
Treatment with antibiotics is only indicated if it is a bacterial inflammation of the ankle. This is comparatively rare.
With rheumatic or autoimmune diseases of the ankle it often occurs cortisone for use, which inhibits the excessive and faulty immune reactions.
Home remedies
Ankle inflammation is usually conservative, that is without surgery, only with medication and through Protection of the affected limb. Those affected can support the healing process with tried and tested home remedies. If you have ankle inflammation, the affected joint should be cooled. So-called help here Quark wrapthat can be made at home with simple means. To make a quark topping, cool quark is applied to a thin cloth. The cloth is then folded and attached to the desired location with a gauze bandage. The application should several times a day be repeated.
Prevention
One Inflammation in the ankle area can often through the Compliance with simple rules of conduct be prevented. Above all, changing risky habits plays a crucial role in this context. In order to prevent the development of inflammation at the ankle, you should above all long, steady movements be avoided. Furthermore, patients at risk should be careful not to have a Bad posture of the body consciously take precautions during sports or work. In addition, should Sports and work equipment on ergonomics checked and replaced if necessary. Besides, it can Taking regular breaks between the exercise intervals as a suitable preventive measure of the Inflammation of the ankle be considered.
Structure of the ankle
The Ankle joint represents a complex, flexible unit which makes it possible to achieve a relatively large range of motion with the foot. The ankle joint itself is made up of five bony structures: the Shin, the Fibula, the Ankle bone, the Heel bone and the Scaphoid. In addition, the mobility of the ankle is influenced by different Tapes limited in a natural way and thus stabilizes the joint. There are also numerous in the ankle area Muscle tendons, nerves and vessels to find.
In general, a distinction is made between the ankle joint three different joint parts: the upper ankle, the anterior lower ankle and the posterior lower ankle. Only through the joint capsule, muscles and ligaments surrounding the bony joint can these three joint parts be considered functional unit Act. The Movement possibilities of the joint are special extensive. This is especially necessary so that the foot can ideally adapt to the ground. When walking or running, the aim is to create as much contact area as possible, even on uneven ground. However, to a Overmobility of the ankle and thus to prevent damage, the surrounding ligaments limit the range of motion.
Since the ankle, however not directly enveloped by muscles will, can Possibilities of Injury be very diverse in this area. In addition, if the ankle is impaired, injuries to the adjacent tendons, nerves or blood vessels can occur.
Due to its complex structure, the ankle is prone to many diseases. The most common problems in the area of this joint are caused by this traumatic events caused, such as twisting an ankle. Especially people who often sporty operate and / or shoes with high heels are particularly at risk.
forecast
Even in patients who only suffer from mild symptoms, there is one Inflammation of the ankle urgent in need of treatment. The lack of initiation of a appropriate therapy carries the risk of a Chronification of the inflammatory processes. In general, however, it can be assumed that inflammation in the ankle area mostly occurs heals without complications.
