Ankle Pain
What Are the Common Causes of Ankle Pain?
Ankle pain can stem from a range of conditions, many of which have a significant biomechanical component. At West Bridgford Podiatry, we commonly assess and manage:
- Tibialis posterior tendinitis: a leading cause of inner ankle pain and progressive flat foot deformity
- Achilles tendinopathy: pain and stiffness at the back of the heel or along the Achilles tendon
- Peroneal tendinopathy: outer ankle and lower leg pain
- Ankle osteoarthritis
- Recurring ankle sprains and chronic ankle instability
- Sinus tarsi syndrome
- Pronation-related ankle strain associated with flat feet
Signs and Symptoms
You may benefit from a podiatric assessment if you experience:
- Pain on the inner or outer aspect of the ankle, particularly with walking or standing
- Swelling or puffiness around the ankle joint
- Morning stiffness in the ankle that eases with movement
- A sensation of the ankle giving way or feeling unstable underfoot
- Tenderness along the course of a tendon around the ankle
- Altered gait, such as walking on the outer edge of the foot to avoid pain
How We Treat Ankle Pain
Your assessment begins with a detailed clinical history, followed by a physical examination of the ankle, foot, and lower limb. Where gait mechanics are likely to be contributing, computerised gait analysis provides objective data to inform the treatment plan. Treatment may include:
- Orthotic therapy using prefabricated or Phits 3D-printed orthotics to control pronation and reduce tendon load
- Footwear advice to ensure appropriate support and cushioning
- Referral to physiotherapy for a structured tendon loading or rehabilitation programme
- Onward referral to orthopaedic services where clinically appropriate
Evidence and Clinical Standards
Our approach follows the standards of the HCPC and the College of Podiatry. For conditions such as tibialis posterior tendinopathy, management aligns with current evidence-based guidelines, including early intervention with orthotic support.
Faqs
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a podiatrist treat ankle pain?
Yes. Podiatrists are trained in the assessment and management of foot and ankle conditions. Where ankle pain has a biomechanical or structural cause, podiatric intervention is often highly effective. We can refer to physiotherapy or orthopaedics where appropriate.
What is tibialis posterior tendinitis?
It is inflammation of the tendon supporting the arch as it passes behind the inner ankle. Left untreated, it can lead to progressive flat foot deformity. Early orthotic support and footwear advice are important for management.
Can flat feet cause ankle pain?
Yes. Excessive pronation associated with flat feet places increased strain on the inner ankle structures, particularly the tibialis posterior tendon. Orthotics that support the arch and control pronation can significantly reduce this load.
Do I need an X-ray before attending?
An X-ray is not required before your appointment. If imaging is clinically indicated following your assessment, we will advise you to request this through your GP.








