Non-inflammatory causes

Much more common than a real inflammation of the ankle joint are inflammations of adjacent structures of the joint and other diseases that can lead to swelling of the joint. Injuries to the tendons of the ankle joint are common. They can occur in the context of a compression or twisting of the foot.

However, it does not always have to be the acute accidents that are painfully remembered by those affected. Even chronic, i.e. permanent overloading of the tendon apparatus leaves microscopic traces on the tendons, which impair their stability and smooth functioning. One speaks of tendinosis when the tissue of a tendon dies, i.e. degenerates, due to repeated damage or permanent overloading.

This phenomenon can also occur in the area of the ankle joint and lead to chronic pain. If additional signs of inflammation such as redness, swelling and overheating occur, one speaks of tendinitis, an inflammation of the tendon in the foot. It also develops on the ground of constant irritation or repeated injuries.

If the affected muscles and joints are not spared when tendinosis or tendinitis occurs, the diseased tendon heals with scarring. In addition to its stability, this also influences its ability to slide in the tendon sheath. Persistent pain during movement and repeated inflammatory conditions can be the result.

A frequent tendon inflammation in the area of the ankle joint is the so-called Achilles tendon inflammation. In addition, inflammatory processes in the area of the tendon sheaths (technical term: tendovaginitis) and ligaments belong to frequent diseases of the ankle joint. Tendovaginitis usually affects the wrist.

The reason for this is the fact that this joint in particular is subjected to extensive stress every day. If an inflammation of the tendon sheaths in the area of the ankle joint occurs, this disease is also often associated with unusual physical strain, which leads to heavy strain on the ligaments and tendons. Typical diseases of the ankle joint include sprains and torn ligaments.

Depending on the extent of the injury, a torn ligament can also lead to impairment of the joint capsule and/or the bony structures. In this case there is a strong, painful swelling of the ankle joint, which is then no longer fully mobile. After a torn ligament: If not enough time is invested in protecting and healing the joint after such severe injuries, changes in the structure and build-up of the ankle joint may occur.

This can lead to incorrect loading of the joint surfaces and thus to increased wear and tear.Wear of the cartilaginous surface of joints is called arthrosis and it occurs mainly in joints that are subject to great stress. Knee joint arthrosis is the most common arthrosis in humans and the disease can also occur occasionally on the ankle joint. The likelihood of this is increased if the joint is pre-damaged as a result of injuries and the joint function is disturbed as a result.

A torn ligament in the foot or ankle joint can also lead to osteoarthritis as a late consequence. An arthrosis disease should always be treated by a physician. In the case of severe ankle arthrosis, an inflammation of the ankle or an acute inflammatory flare-up can also occur in the course of the disease.

You can find more information here: Torn ligament of the ankle joint An inflammation of the ankle joint is also one of the complications of surgery, as it must occasionally be performed after a torn ligament to restore the ligament apparatus. You can get more information here: Treatment of a torn ligament Further causes of inflammation of the ankle joint are usually excessive strain and/or unusual movements. When an inflammation of the ankle joint is present, the affected patients typically feel stabbing pain that can radiate to the tip of the foot and lower leg.

Women who frequently wear high shoes also have a significantly increased risk of developing damage and injury to the ankle joint. Particularly for people who are frequently engaged in sports or who are exposed to great physical strain, there is an increased risk of developing inflammation of the tendon sheaths of the ankle joint. Especially cross-country skiers or joggers often develop inflammation of the tendon sheaths of the foot muscles. To stabilize the joint and avoid possible overloading, the ankle can be taped or an ankle bandage can be applied.