Ankle

Most ankle problems will start to improve within 8-24 weeks.

Ankle pain can be a symptom of many different conditions. Sometimes it is difficult to know what is causing the ankle to be painful, as there may not have been an obvious reason. Often an ankle can become painful a few days after doing an activity that is different for you. This may have been something simple, such as a longer time spent walking or standing.

For some people their ankle pain may be the result of injury sustained whilst playing sport or from a fall or awkward twist on the ankle.

Most ankle problems will start to improve within 8-24 weeks.

No matter the cause of your ankle pain there are some simple things you can try to help your ankle recover:

Rest – reduce or stop any activities that aggravate the ankle. This may initially involve spending less time standing and walking.
Ice – apply an ice pack if the ankle is warm or swollen (or a bag of frozen vegetables wrapped in a tea towel) to the injury for up to 20 minutes every 2 to 3 hours.
Compression – wrap a bandage around the injury to support it if it is swollen.
Elevate – keep it raised on a pillow as much as possible if it is swollen.
Use pain killers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen as they can help you to remain active, which helps you recover quicker. Remember to check they are safe for you. If you are not sure or struggling to manage your pain, then speak with a pharmacist. (Do not use ibuprofen in the first 48 hours after an injury as it may slow down healing).
To help prevent swelling, try to avoid heat (such as hot baths and heat packs), alcohol and massages for the first couple of days.
Try to gently move the ankle up and down and in circles as soon as possible to avoid the ankle becoming stiff.
Wear supportive comfortable shoes, with a low heel.
Try using soft insoles or heel pads in your shoes.

Symptoms to check

Click the plus sign to see a list of problems that could be a sign you may need to be checked urgently

Get advice from 111 now if:

your ankle is very painful and you cannot put any weight on it
you have direct injury to the ankle and it has become very swollen very quickly
your ankle is badly swollen or has changed shape
you heard a snap, grinding or popping noise at the time of injury
you have a very high temperature, feel hot and shivery, and have redness or heat around the ankle – this can be a sign of infection

111 will tell you what to do. They can tell you the right place to get help if you need to see someone.

Go to 111.nhs.uk or call 111.

Immediate medical advice is available by contacting NHS 111

Further Reading

Ankle

Exercises & Resources

Referral Information