What Causes Sudden Ankle Pain Without Injury?
You did not twist it. You did not fall. But your ankle hurts. It came out of nowhere. No clear reason. And now you are limping or avoiding movement. Sudden ankle pain without injury is confusing. But it happens. Often!
There is always a cause. You just may not have noticed it. The pain can build up quietly. Or it can be the first sign of something deeper. Here is what might be going on.
Inflammation Inside the Joint
The ankle joint can swell without warning. This is often due to inflammation. Arthritis is one cause. Gout is another. You may feel stiffness and warmth around the ankle. Pain may start at night or in the early morning. This can happen even if you have no past joint problems. If the pain stays for more than a few days, get it checked.
Tendon Overuse or Strain
Tendons are bands that connect muscle to bone. They support the ankle and help it move. When you overuse them, they get irritated. This is called tendonitis. It can happen from walking long distances. Or wearing shoes with poor support. You may not notice the strain until the next day. Pain usually starts on the sides or back of the ankle.
Irritated Bursa Around the Ankle
There are small fluid-filled sacs around the joints. They reduce rubbing between bones and tissues. These are called bursae. If they get inflamed, they hurt. Bursitis in the ankle is not common. But it can happen if you stand for hours or wear tight shoes. The ankle feels tender, especially when touched.
Nerve Compression or Pinching
Sometimes, ankle pain comes from nerves. A pinched nerve in the lower leg or foot can send sharp pain to the ankle. You might feel burning, tingling, or numbness. It may start suddenly. Or after sitting or standing in one position for too long. It can also be linked to swelling.
Referred Pain from Other Joints
Not all ankle pain starts in the ankle. Pain from the lower back or knee can move down to the ankle. This is called referred pain. It can feel like soreness or weakness. But the problem lies higher up in the body.
Medical Conditions or Infections
Certain illnesses can cause sudden ankle pain. These include lupus, Lyme disease, or viral infections. If your ankle is red, warm, and swollen with a fever, get medical help quickly. Some joint infections can become serious if not treated early.
Time to See a Specialist
If the pain is stopping you from walking or if it lasts more than a few days, see a doctor. A proper exam helps rule out deeper problems. An ankle orthopaedic doctor can check for joint damage, tendon issues, or signs of nerve pressure. You may need scans or blood tests. The goal is to find out what is wrong and stop it from getting worse.
How Do You Treat Sudden Ankle Pain Without Injury?
You may ask, How do you treat sudden ankle pain without injury? The answer depends on what is causing it. Start with rest. Keep the foot up. Use ice for 15 minutes at a time. Avoid walking long distances.
Wear good shoes. Avoid going barefoot indoors if the floor is hard. Use cushions or braces if advised. Your doctor may give anti-inflammatory tablets or creams. Physiotherapy helps if the issue is with tendons or nerves. In some cases, you may need custom footwear or insoles.
Pay Attention to Early Signs
Sudden pain is the body’s warning sign. Listen to it. Do not wait for it to go away on its own. If it gets worse or keeps coming back, get it looked at. The earlier you find the cause, the faster you can treat it. Most ankle issues are easy to manage with the right care. But only if you act on them in time.