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Ankle Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options in Houston & Pearland, TX


Advanced Orthopedic Care with Dr. Robert L. Burke

Your ankles carry your entire body weight with every step you take—walking, running, climbing stairs, or standing for long periods. When pain or injury affects the ankle, even simple tasks can become difficult and painful.

At Dr. Burke Orthopedics we provide personalized ankle care for patients across Houston, Pearland, Friendswood, and surrounding Southeast Texas communities. Using evidence-based treatment methods and advanced orthopedic technology, Dr. Robert L. Burke a board-certified orthopedic surgeon, helps patients restore mobility, stability, and comfort.

Understanding Ankle Pain

Ankle pain is a symptom, not a diagnosis. It may result from injury, overuse, inflammation, instability, or degenerative joint changes. Because many ankle conditions share similar symptoms, an orthopedic evaluation is often necessary to identify the underlying cause and determine appropriate treatment.

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Common Ankle Pain Symptoms

Ankle pain can present in different ways depending on the underlying condition. Common symptoms include:

  • Pain when walking, standing, or bearing weight
  • Swelling or stiffness around the ankle joint
  • Instability or the ankle “giving way”
  • Sharp pain after twisting or injury
  • Pain at rest or after activity
  • Limited range of motion

Common Causes of Ankle Pain

What Ankle Pain May Indicate

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1. Ankle Sprains (Ligament Injuries)

Ankle sprains Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments supporting the ankle are stretched or torn, often from sudden twisting or rolling of the foot. This is one of the most common sports injuries.

Symptoms:


  • Pain on the inner or outer side of the ankle
  • Swelling, bruising, or tenderness
  • Difficulty bearing weight
  • Instability or “giving way”


Dr. Burke’s Approach:


  • Most sprains respond well to rest, anti-inflammatory care, bracing, and physical therapy to strengthen the ankle and restore stability.


Surgical Options:


  • Chronic or severe ligament damage may require ankle ligament reconstruction to support the joint.


Recovery Time:


  • Mild sprains heal in 2–4 weeks moderate to severe sprains may take 6–8 weeks or longer with rehabilitation.

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2. Ankle Fractures (Tibia, Fibula, Talus)

An ankle fracture occurs when one or more of the ankle bones break, usually due to falls, accidents, or high-impact sports.

Symptoms:


  • Sharp pain, swelling, and bruising
  • Inability to walk or balance
  • Visible deformity of the ankle
  • Immediate loss of function


Dr. Burke’s Approach:


  • X-rays and imaging are used to evaluate the injury. Simple fractures may only need immobilization.


Surgical Options:


  • More complex fractures often require surgical realignment with plates, screws, or rods.


Recovery Timeline:


  • Non-surgical healing: 6–8 weeks.
    Surgical recovery: 10–12 weeks, followed by structured physical therapy at our Pearland orthopedic clinic.

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  • Personalized Care
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3. Achilles Tendonitis

This condition develops when the Achilles tendon becomes inflamed due to overuse, tight calf muscles, or repetitive stress.

Symptoms:


  • Pain or stiffness in the back of the ankle
  • Tenderness above the heel
  • Pain that worsens with running or climbing stairs


Dr. Burke’s Approach:


  • Treatment includes rest, stretching, anti-inflammatory therapy, and custom rehabilitation exercises.


Surgical Options:


  • In severe cases or tendon degeneration, Achilles tendon repair may be needed.


Recovery Timeline:


  • Non-surgical recovery: 4–6 weeks
    Surgical recovery: 3–6 months with physical therapy.

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  • Personalized Care
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4. Tendonitis (Peroneal, Posterior Tibial, Flexor Tendons)

Repetitive use or strain can cause inflammation of the ankle tendons, leading to sharp pain or weakness during motion.

Symptoms:


  • Pain along the sides or back of the ankle
  • Swelling or tenderness
  • Difficulty walking or balancing


Dr. Burke’s Approach:


  • Initial care includes rest, bracing, anti-inflammatory medication, and targeted physical therapy.


Surgical Options:


  • Tendon repair or cleaning may be recommended if symptoms persist despite conservative treatment.


Recovery Timeline:


  • Conservative care: 4–6 weeks
    Surgical recovery: 3–6 months depending on severity.

  • Innovative Regenerative Therapy
  • Personalized Care
  • FDA-Cleared Procedure

5. Arthritis (Osteoarthritis & Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Ankle)

Ankle arthritis occurs when the cartilage protecting the joint wears down, either through degeneration or autoimmune conditions.

Symptoms:


  • Persistent pain and stiffness
  • Swelling or warmth around the joint
  • Decreased range of motion
  • Pain that worsens in the morning or with activity


Dr. Burke’s Approach:




Surgical Options:


  • Advanced arthritis may require ankle arthroscopy, joint fusion, or total ankle replacement depending on severity.


Recovery Timeline:


  • Non-surgical care varies from 4–6 weeks.
    Surgical recovery may take several months with guided rehabilitation.

  • Innovative Regenerative Therapy
  • Personalized Care
  • FDA-Cleared Procedure

6. Bursitis & Impingement Syndromes

Inflammation of the ankle bursae or pressure from bone spurs can cause sharp pain during walking, running, or extension.

Symptoms:


  • Localized swelling
  • Pain with movement or pressure
  • Limited flexibility


Dr. Burke’s Approach:


  • Non-surgical care includes rest, ice, anti-inflammatory treatment, and physical therapy.


Surgical Options:


  • Arthroscopic removal of bone spurs or inflamed tissue may be recommended for severe cases.


Recovery Timeline:


  • 4–6 weeks without surgery.
    6–12 weeks with arthroscopic treatment.

  • Innovative Regenerative Therapy
  • Personalized Care
  • FDA-Cleared Procedure

7. Flat Feet or Foot Alignment Problems

Poor foot alignment can shift pressure unevenly onto the ankle joint, causing chronic discomfort and instability.

Symptoms:


  • Inner or outer ankle pain
  • Difficulty balancing
  • Fatigue while walking


Dr. Burke’s Approach:


  • Custom orthotics, bracing, and physical therapy to correct alignment and support the foot.


Surgical Options:


  • Reconstruction may be recommended for severe deformities or instability.


Recovery Timeline:


  • Non-surgical recovery: 4–8 weeks.
    Surgical recovery: 3–6 months.

  • Innovative Regenerative Therapy
  • Personalized Care
  • FDA-Cleared Procedure

8. Nerve Compression (Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome)

Compression of the tibial nerve in the tarsal tunnel can cause burning ankle pain and numbness in the foot.

Symptoms:


  • Tingling or numbness in the ankle or foot
  • Burning pain
  • Weakness or difficulty walking


Dr. Burke’s Approach:


  • Rest, bracing, physical therapy, and nerve gliding exercises.


Surgical Options:


  • Tarsal tunnel release surgery may be recommended for persistent nerve symptoms.


Recovery Timeline:


  • 4–6 weeks non-surgical; several months for surgical decompression.


Proper diagnosis is essential to guide treatment and prevent recurrence.

  • Innovative Regenerative Therapy
  • Personalized Care
  • FDA-Cleared Procedure

When to See an Orthopedic Specialist for Ankle Pain

An orthopedic evaluation may be recommended if ankle pain:

  • Persists longer than a few weeks
  • Occurs after a fall, twist, or sports injury
  • Causes instability or repeated sprains
  • Limits walking or daily activities
  • Does not improve with rest or conservative care

Early evaluation can help prevent long-term joint damage or instability.

Why Patients Across Houston & Pearland Trust Dr. Burke Orthopedics

  • Board-certified orthopedic surgeon with decades of experience
  • Evidence-based, patient-first approach
  • Full diagnostics, treatment, and rehabilitation under one roof
  • Trusted by patients throughout Houston, Pearland, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas

  • Innovative Regenerative Therapy
  • Personalized Care
  • FDA-Cleared Procedure

Get Same-Day Orthopedic Care for
Ankle Pain in Houston & Pearland

If ankle pain is making it difficult to walk, exercise, or perform your daily activities, expert help is close to home. At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we offer same-day appointments for evaluation and treatment of ankle injuries, arthritis, tendonitis, fractures, and chronic pain.

With advanced orthopedic care led by Dr. Robert L. Burke, you can begin your recovery with a personalized treatment plan designed to restore strength, stability, and comfort.

📞 Call (713) 436-3488 to schedule your appointment or visit our Pearland clinic—proudly serving patients throughout Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas.

(713) 436-3488

Disclaimer:


The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment. Do not delay seeking care based on information found here. Click For The Full Declaimer

  • Innovative Regenerative Therapy
  • Personalized Care
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • How do I know if my ankle pain requires medical attention?
    Seek care if pain lasts more than a few days, prevents walking, or is accompanied by swelling, bruising, or instability.
  • Can ankle injuries heal without surgery?
    Many ankle sprains, mild fractures, and tendon issues improve with non-surgical care like physical therapy, bracing, and medication. Dr. Burke will provide a personalized treatment plan.
  • How long does it take to recover from an ankle fracture?
    Simple fractures typically heal in 6–8 weeks. More complex fractures requiring surgery may take 10–12 weeks or longer.
  • What are the signs of nerve compression in the ankle?
    Burning pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness may indicate tarsal tunnel syndrome or related conditions.
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