Ankle Pain: Possible Sciatica and Specialist Recommendations

Q: Ankle Pain: Possible Sciatica and Specialist Recommendations

Hello： In response to your question, based on your description, the pain is located from the left ankle to the thigh, with the most intense pain at the ankle. <br>This seems more indicative of a ligament or joint issue, especially after heavier activities. <br>Additionally, if th

Ankle pain

Hello Doctor: My father is 65 years old.
A month ago, he experienced some numbness in his left leg from the thigh to the calf, but today he suddenly has pain so severe that he cannot walk.
The pain is located near the left ankle (around the bony prominence) and radiates up to the thigh, with the most intense pain at the ankle.
He moved heavy objects and walked back and forth on a mountain five or six times yesterday, and I'm not sure if that is related.
I would like to ask: 1.
Is the pain at the ankle so severe that he cannot walk, along with some soreness in the thigh and lower back, indicative of sciatica? 2.
Which specialty should he see? P.S.
He previously had issues with sciatica in his right leg, but that has resolved.
Thank you!

Xiao Ru, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/11/12

Dr. Huang Yongquan reply Neurology

Hello: In response to your question, based on your description, the pain is located from the left ankle to the thigh, with the most intense pain at the ankle.
This seems more indicative of a ligament or joint issue, especially after heavier activities.
Additionally, if the ankle pain is particularly severe, we should consider the possibility of a gout attack.
Generally, sciatica pain typically radiates from the hip area down the thigh to the calf, often presenting as aching or even sharp pain, and in severe cases, there may be weakness.
It’s also important to note whether the tingling sensation you experienced a month ago was just typical muscle soreness.
If there are issues with skin sensation or significant weakness, further examination is necessary.
If the symptoms are solely related to muscle or joint pain, then heat therapy and over-the-counter pain relievers should suffice.
However, if the symptoms persist, it would be best to seek further evaluation from a neurologist, orthopedic specialist, or rehabilitation physician, as they could be of assistance.

Reply Date: 2007/11/12

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your question regarding your father's ankle pain and the potential connection to sciatica. Based on the symptoms you've described, it sounds like there are several factors to consider.

1. Understanding the Pain: The pain your father is experiencing, which radiates from the ankle to the thigh, could indeed be related to sciatica, especially since he has a history of sciatica in his right leg. Sciatica typically presents as pain that travels along the path of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down through the hips and buttocks and into each leg. However, the specific pain localized around the ankle could also indicate a localized issue, such as an ankle sprain, tendonitis, or even a fracture, especially considering that he was moving heavy objects recently. The fact that he is experiencing numbness ("麻麻的") could suggest nerve involvement, which might be related to sciatica or another nerve compression issue.

2. Recommended Specialist: Given the symptoms, it would be advisable for your father to see an orthopedic specialist or a neurologist. An orthopedic doctor can assess any potential musculoskeletal injuries, such as sprains or fractures, while a neurologist can evaluate for nerve-related issues, including sciatica. If the pain persists or worsens, a visit to a pain management specialist may also be beneficial.

3. Diagnostic Approach: The doctor may recommend imaging studies, such as X-rays or an MRI, to determine if there are any structural issues contributing to the pain. They might also perform a physical examination to assess the range of motion, strength, and areas of tenderness.

4. Treatment Options: Treatment will depend on the diagnosis. If it is determined to be sciatica, treatment options may include physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and possibly corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation. If the pain is due to an ankle injury, rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) may be recommended, along with pain relief medications.

5. Self-Care Measures: In the meantime, your father should avoid activities that exacerbate the pain, such as heavy lifting or prolonged walking. Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises, as tolerated, may help improve flexibility and strength in the affected areas.

6. Monitoring Symptoms: It’s important to monitor the symptoms closely. If he experiences worsening pain, increased numbness, or any new symptoms such as bowel or bladder dysfunction, he should seek immediate medical attention.

In summary, while the symptoms could suggest sciatica, the specific pain around the ankle and the recent physical activity should be thoroughly evaluated by a healthcare professional. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes and help manage pain effectively. Thank you for your inquiry, and I hope your father finds relief soon!

Similar Q&A

Persistent Foot Pain: When to Consult an Orthopedic Specialist

I have been experiencing soreness, numbness, and pain in the soles of my feet. I have seen a neurosurgeon several times, but the medication has been ineffective, and the discomfort is getting worse. Should I consider seeing an orthopedic specialist?

Dr. Yang Zhengfan reply Orthopedics
Dear May, I believe you may be experiencing sciatica. Typical sciatica is caused by a herniated disc between the vertebrae, which leads to nerve compression, resulting in symptoms such as pain, numbness, and tingling in the feet. I recommend that you consult an orthopedic special...

Is It Sciatica? Understanding Your Pain and Treatment Options

I'm sorry, may I ask a question? Several years ago, I experienced pain that extended from my ankle to my calf, then to my buttocks, and finally to my lower back. At that time, the doctor diagnosed it as sciatica. After several sessions of physical therapy, the pain subsided,...

Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics
Based on your symptoms, it cannot be ruled out that you have sciatica. Diagnosis should be determined through clinical symptoms and physical examination. Sciatica can occur on one side or both sides. X-rays cannot diagnose sciatica; if there is a high suspicion, magnetic resonanc...

Understanding Sciatica: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options

Hello, doctor. In July of this year, I experienced slight lower back pain while moving feed for my aquaculture business. I went to Mackay Memorial Hospital for acupuncture and manual therapy, but after returning home, my symptoms worsened. I experienced pain and numbness from my ...

Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
Based on the symptoms you described, it does appear to be sciatica. However, common causes such as herniated discs, other nerve compressions, or inflammatory lesions have been ruled out. This leads us to consider some rare causes, which would require a nerve biopsy and subsequent...

Understanding Sciatica: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options

Hello, Dr. Yeh. I would like to ask if frequent pain and discomfort in the lower right side of my body, to the point where I can't walk, could be sciatica? If so, what treatment options are available? I have had multiple X-rays done, but the cause has not been identified. Wh...

Dr. Ye Qingnian reply Orthopedics
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I would like to address your question and provide the following suggestions: Generally speaking, sciatica radiates from the back down through the posterior thigh and calf to the foot, often presenting as pain and numbness. Magnetic resonance ima...