Effective Treatment Options for Inner Ankle Pain After Soccer Injury

Medial ankle pain

Hello Doctor, last Tuesday while playing soccer, I tried to block a shot with my foot, but since I lifted my foot off the ground, the ball hit the inner side near the bottom of my foot.
As a result, my ankle felt like it was twisted outward, and the pain is located just below the bony prominence on the inner side of my ankle.
I have already received treatment at a rehabilitation clinic, but there has been no improvement.
Could you please suggest any more effective treatment methods? Currently, I am using infrared heat therapy and electrical stimulation.
I hope you can take the time to respond.
Thank you very much.

Mr. Lan, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/04/27

Dr. Wang Zhaomin reply Rehabilitation

After a typical ankle sprain, heat therapy and electrical therapy can be used for treatment.
Infrared therapy, hot compresses, and electrical stimulation are common forms of physical therapy, but the choice of treatment should be based on actual clinical evaluation to select the most appropriate method.
In addition to treatment at a rehabilitation clinic, patients can also alleviate pain at home by soaking in warm water and performing stretching exercises.
When walking or engaging in work activities, using supportive braces can help prevent symptom exacerbation.
If symptoms persist, it is advisable to discuss with the treating physician whether further examination or referral is necessary.

Reply Date: 2020/04/27

More Info

When dealing with inner ankle pain following a soccer injury, it’s essential to understand the nature of the injury and the appropriate treatment options available. Based on your description, it seems you may have sustained a sprain or strain, possibly affecting the ligaments around the ankle joint, particularly the deltoid ligament on the inner side of the ankle.

Initial Treatment and Rehabilitation
The first line of treatment for ankle injuries typically involves the RICE method—Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. Since you have already begun physical therapy with infrared heat and electrical stimulation, these modalities can help reduce pain and inflammation. However, if you are not experiencing improvement, it may be time to consider additional treatment options.

1. Physical Therapy: Continuing with physical therapy is crucial. A physical therapist can provide targeted exercises to strengthen the muscles around the ankle and improve flexibility. They may also employ manual therapy techniques to enhance mobility and reduce pain.

2. Bracing or Taping: Using an ankle brace or athletic tape can provide additional support to the injured area, helping to stabilize the ankle during movement. This can be particularly beneficial when you are engaging in activities that may aggravate the injury.

3. Medication: Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. If your pain is severe, your doctor may prescribe stronger pain relief or anti-inflammatory medications.

4. Ultrasound Therapy: This is another physical therapy modality that can promote healing by increasing blood flow to the injured area and reducing inflammation.

5. Gradual Return to Activity: Once your pain decreases and you regain some mobility, it’s important to gradually return to your normal activities. Start with low-impact exercises and slowly progress to more demanding activities, ensuring you do not exacerbate the injury.

Advanced Treatment Options
If conservative treatments do not yield improvement after a reasonable period (usually a few weeks), further evaluation may be warranted:
1. Imaging Studies: An MRI or X-ray may be necessary to rule out any fractures or more severe ligament injuries that could require surgical intervention.

2. Corticosteroid Injections: In some cases, a corticosteroid injection may be recommended to reduce inflammation and pain in the affected area.

3. Surgery: If there is significant ligament damage or if conservative treatments fail, surgical options may be considered to repair the damaged ligaments.

Preventive Measures
To prevent future injuries, consider the following:
- Strengthening Exercises: Focus on exercises that strengthen the ankle and surrounding muscles. This can help improve stability and reduce the risk of re-injury.

- Balance Training: Incorporating balance exercises can enhance proprioception, which is crucial for preventing ankle injuries during sports activities.

- Proper Footwear: Ensure you are wearing appropriate footwear that provides adequate support and cushioning for soccer.

- Warm-Up and Cool Down: Always include a proper warm-up before engaging in sports and a cool-down afterward to help prevent injuries.

Conclusion
In summary, while infrared heat and electrical stimulation are beneficial, it may be necessary to explore additional treatment options if you do not see improvement. Continuing physical therapy, considering bracing, and possibly consulting with a specialist for further evaluation are all valid steps. Remember, patience is key in recovery, and ensuring a gradual return to activity is essential to prevent future injuries. If your symptoms persist, do not hesitate to seek further medical advice.

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