Lateral Ankle Tendon Pain After Sports Injury: Causes and Recovery Tips

Tendons on the lateral side of the left ankle?

Hello Doctor, last month while playing soccer, I suddenly felt a sharp pain in my left foot when I changed direction.
I went for X-rays and ultrasounds, and both my ligaments and bones were fine.
However, when I started my rehabilitation training, I noticed that when I stand on my left foot or land on it, I experience sudden pain on the outer side of my ankle.
It feels like the tendon is sliding over the ankle.
Most of the time, the pain is brief, but sometimes it lasts longer, making it difficult for me to put weight on my left foot.
Once the tendon returns to its position, the pain subsides, but pressing on that tendon and along the outer side of the ankle down to the edge of the ankle is painful.
Additionally, when I extend my left big toe upwards and to the right, I also feel tight pain at the edge of the ankle.
This issue frequently occurs during changes in direction or when landing on one foot.

I would like to ask the doctor what might be causing this.
Should I see a doctor or undergo any specific tests? Will it heal on its own over time, or will I gradually adapt to it? Should I continue training with my team? What recovery recommendations do you have? Thank you, Doctor!

Chou, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/01/10

Dr. Wang Zhaomin reply Rehabilitation

This consultation platform cannot provide a diagnosis.
The current symptoms may be caused by an injury to the tendons or ligaments near the ankle.
You can start with self-application of heat therapy and perform moderate stretching exercises.
Additionally, using an ankle brace can help protect the joint and expedite recovery.
If symptoms persist or worsen, please visit an orthopedic or rehabilitation specialist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Reply Date: 2024/01/10

More Info

Lateral ankle tendon pain after a sports injury, such as the one you experienced while playing soccer, can be quite common and often results from a combination of factors including ligament strain, tendon irritation, and muscle imbalances. When you heard a "pop" and felt immediate pain, it could indicate a sudden strain or injury to the tendons or ligaments around the ankle, even if imaging studies like X-rays and ultrasounds did not show any significant damage.

Causes of Lateral Ankle Tendon Pain
1. Tendonitis: The pain you feel when standing on one foot or landing can be a sign of tendonitis, which is inflammation of the tendons around the ankle. This often occurs due to overuse or improper mechanics during activities.

2. Tendon Subluxation: The sensation of the tendon "sliding" over the ankle can indicate a subluxation, where the tendon moves out of its normal position. This can happen if the tendons are not properly anchored or if there is swelling in the area.

3. Muscle Imbalance: After an injury, the muscles surrounding the ankle may become weak or imbalanced, leading to instability and pain during certain movements, especially when changing direction or landing.

4. Scar Tissue Formation: If there was any minor injury that didn’t show up on imaging, scar tissue can develop, leading to tightness and discomfort during movement.

Recovery Tips
1. Rest and Ice: Initially, it’s crucial to rest the ankle and apply ice to reduce inflammation. Avoid activities that exacerbate the pain, especially those involving lateral movements.

2. Physical Therapy: Engaging in physical therapy can be beneficial. A physical therapist can provide targeted exercises to strengthen the muscles around the ankle, improve balance, and enhance flexibility. This can help in preventing future injuries.

3. Gradual Return to Activity: While it’s important to stay active, you should gradually return to sports. Start with low-impact activities and slowly increase intensity as tolerated. Pay attention to your body’s signals; if pain returns, scale back.

4. Strengthening Exercises: Focus on exercises that strengthen the ankle and surrounding muscles. This includes resistance training for the calf muscles, as well as balance exercises like single-leg stands.

5. Taping or Bracing: Using ankle tape or a brace during activities can provide additional support and stability, helping to prevent further injury.

6. Modify Training: If you are training with your team, consider modifying your participation. Engage in drills that do not put excessive strain on your ankle, and communicate with your coach about your condition.

When to See a Doctor
If the pain persists despite following these recovery tips, or if you experience swelling, bruising, or instability in the ankle, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional. They may recommend further imaging studies or refer you to a specialist for a more in-depth evaluation.

Conclusion
In summary, while it’s possible that your ankle may gradually heal and adapt over time, it’s essential to take proactive steps in your recovery. Listening to your body, engaging in appropriate rehabilitation, and allowing adequate time for healing are key components to a successful recovery. If you have any concerns about your symptoms or recovery process, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice. Your health and well-being should always come first, especially when it comes to sports injuries.

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