Top 7 Ankle Pain Causes & Treatments | Expert Care by Dr. Burke

Ankle Pain Treatment in Houston & Pearland, TX

Expert Orthopedic Care from Dr. Robert L. Burke

If you’re struggling with ankle pain, instability, or an injury that won’t heal, Dr. Robert L. Burke, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon, provides advanced, personalized ankle care for patients in Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and the Greater Houston area.

At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we focus on restoring movement and relieving pain through proven, evidence-based treatments. Whether you’re recovering from a sports injury, dealing with arthritis, or experiencing chronic discomfort, Dr. Burke’s team offers a clear path to recovery tailored to your lifestyle.

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Common Causes of Ankle Pain

1. Ankle Sprains (Ligament Injury)

Ankle Sprains (Ligament Injury) are among the most common causes of ankle pain in Houston and Pearland, affecting athletes, active adults, and everyday walkers alike. Sprains occur when the ankle’s ligaments stretch or tear—usually after twisting or landing awkwardly.

Ankle Sprain Symptoms:

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Pain or tenderness when bearing weight
Swelling and bruising around the joint
Limited movement or stiffness

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Treatment at Dr. Burke Orthopedics:

Dr. Burke performs a full evaluation and imaging, if needed, to assess ligament damage. Most sprains respond to the R.I.C.E. method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) combined with bracing and physical therapy.

Surgical Care: For severe ligament tears, reconstructive surgery may be recommended to stabilize the joint and prevent chronic ankle instability.

Recovery Timeline: Mild sprains heal within 2–4 weeks, while severe or surgical cases may require several months of guided rehabilitation at our Pearland orthopedic clinic.

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2. Ankle Fractures (Broken Ankle)

A broken ankle can result from a sports injury, fall, or motor vehicle accident. At Dr. Burke Orthopedics in Houston, we treat simple and complex ankle fractures using the latest orthopedic techniques.

Common Symptoms:

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Severe pain and tenderness
Swelling or bruising around the ankle
Difficulty or inability to walk

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Dr. Burke’s Approach:

Each fracture is carefully diagnosed using X-rays or CT scans. Minor fractures may only require immobilization, while displaced or multi-bone fractures are treated surgically to restore alignment.

Surgical Options: Dr. Burke may use plates, screws, or rods for stabilization—procedures performed under sterile, advanced orthopedic protocols.

Recovery Timeline: Non-surgical recovery typically takes 6–8 weeks. Surgical repairs can take 10–12 weeks, followed by personalized rehabilitation to regain strength and balance.

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3. Ankle Arthritis (Osteoarthritis & Rheumatoid Arthritis)

Ankle arthritis is a leading cause of chronic joint pain among adults in Pearland and the Houston area. It develops when cartilage protecting the joint wears down, often due to previous injuries or natural aging.

Symptoms:

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Persistent ankle pain that worsens with use
Swelling and stiffness after activity or rest
Reduced mobility and balance

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Treatment Plan: Dr. Burke designs customized care plans that may include anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, bracing, and injections to reduce inflammation and preserve joint function.

Surgical Options: In advanced cases, ankle fusion or total ankle replacement surgery can relieve pain and improve function.

Recovery Timeline: Non-surgical management often improves symptoms within weeks or months. Surgical recovery varies but is guided closely by our orthopedic team in Pearland.

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4. Tendonitis (Ankle Tendon Inflammation)

Tendonitis (Ankle Tendon Inflammation) occurs when ankle tendons become inflamed due to overuse, repetitive strain, or improper footwear—conditions often seen among active Houston residents.

Symptoms:

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Pain or swelling along the ankle tendons
Stiffness or soreness after rest
Tenderness when moving the ankle

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Dr. Burke’s Approach: Non-surgical treatments include rest, activity modification, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medication.

Surgical Care: If tendons are significantly damaged or ruptured, minimally invasive tendon repair may be performed.

Recovery Timeline: Most non-surgical cases resolve in 4–6 weeks. Surgical recovery may take several months with guided rehabilitation and strengthening exercises.

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5. Achilles Tendon Injuries

The Achilles tendon connects your calf muscles to your heel bone and is crucial for walking and jumping. Injuries often occur in athletes and active adults throughout Houston and Pearland.

Symptoms:

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Pain and stiffness in the back of the ankle
Swelling or tenderness above the heel
A popping sound or inability to push off when walking (rupture)

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Treatment with Dr. Burke: Mild cases are treated with immobilization, heel lifts, and physical therapy. Severe tears or ruptures may require surgical repair to restore tendon strength.

Recovery Timeline: Non-surgical recovery typically lasts 4–6 weeks; post-surgical recovery may take 3–6 months with progressive rehabilitation at our Houston orthopedic clinic.

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6. Gout

Gout is a metabolic form of arthritis that can affect the ankle when uric acid crystals accumulate in the joint. It’s commonly seen among adults in the Houston and Pearland area who experience periodic flare-ups of joint inflammation.

Symptoms:

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Sudden, intense pain in the ankle
Redness, warmth, and swelling
Difficulty or inability to walk

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Dr. Burke’s Care Approach: Treatment includes managing uric acid levels, medications to reduce inflammation, and lifestyle adjustments to prevent recurrence.

Recovery Timeline: Flare-ups generally subside within days to weeks, with long-term management reducing future attacks.

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7. Bursitis (Inflamed Ankle Bursa)

Bursitis occurs when the small, fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion the ankle joint become irritated or inflamed—often from repetitive motion or pressure.

Symptoms:

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Pain, swelling, or redness around the ankle
Tenderness to touch
Difficulty flexing or extending the ankle

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Dr. Burke’s Approach: Treatment includes rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, and targeted physical therapy sessions at our Pearland orthopedic facility.

Recovery Timeline: Most patients recover within 4–6 weeks. Chronic cases may require further intervention if symptoms persist.

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8. Nerve Compression (Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome)

Tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs when the tibial nerve is compressed near the ankle, causing pain and tingling in the foot. It’s a frequent condition treated at our Houston orthopedic center.

Symptoms:

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Burning or tingling sensations
Numbness in the ankle or foot
Pain that worsens with walking or prolonged standing

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Dr. Burke’s Approach: Conservative treatments include rest, anti-inflammatory medication, orthotics, and physical therapy.

Surgical Options: If conservative care is ineffective, Dr. Burke may perform tarsal tunnel release surgery to relieve nerve compression.

Recovery Timeline: Non-surgical relief often occurs within a few weeks. Surgical recovery typically takes several months with guided therapy.

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Why Patients Across Houston & Pearland Trust Dr. Burke Orthopedics

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Board-certified orthopedic surgeon with decades of experience
Evidence-based, patient-first approach
Comprehensive diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation in one location
Trusted by patients throughout Houston, Pearland, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas

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Get Same-Day Orthopedic Care in Pearland & Houston, TX

Don’t let ankle pain slow you down. At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, our team provides prompt, evidence-based diagnosis and personalized treatment options to help you move with confidence again.
We offer same-day appointments for ankle injuries, pain evaluations, and second opinions at our Pearland clinic—serving patients across the Greater Houston area.

Call (713) 436-3488 or schedule your visit online today to begin your recovery with Dr. Robert L. Burke, a trusted Houston orthopedic specialist dedicated to restoring your mobility and quality of life.

Disclaimer:

The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Do not disregard or delay seeking professional care based on information you have read here. Click For The Full Declaimer

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I know if my ankle pain requires medical attention?

If you experience persistent pain, swelling, bruising, or difficulty bearing weight on your ankle, it’s a good idea to see Dr. Burke for an evaluation. These symptoms could indicate a sprain, fracture, or other injury that requires treatment.
What is the difference between a sprained ankle and a fractured ankle?

A sprain involves stretching or tearing of the ligaments, while a fracture involves a break in one of the bones in the ankle. Both can cause pain and swelling, but a fracture typically leads to more intense pain, especially when trying to put weight on the affected foot.
Can I recover from an ankle injury without surgery?

Many ankle injuries can heal with conservative treatments such as rest, physical therapy, and bracing. Dr. Burke will assess your condition and recommend the best treatment plan for your specific needs. Surgery is only suggested when absolutely necessary.
How soon can I return to sports or physical activity after an ankle injury?

The recovery time depends on the type and severity of your injury. Minor sprains may allow you to return to activity within a few weeks, while more serious injuries like fractures or tendon ruptures may require a longer recovery period. Dr. Burke will work with you to develop a safe and effective rehabilitation plan.
What are the risks of not treating an ankle injury?

Without proper treatment, ankle injuries can lead to chronic pain, instability, and an increased risk of future injuries. Delayed treatment may also cause long-term damage to the ankle joint or surrounding ligaments.