Ankle pain can make everyday movement frustrating — walking, standing, stairs, exercise, work, and even simple household tasks can become difficult. Because the ankle supports your body weight with every step, pain can quickly become a daily limitation.

The cause may be a sprain that never fully healed, tendon irritation, arthritis, overuse, instability, inflammation, or compensation from another foot, knee, hip, or back problem.

A proper evaluation helps determine what may be driving the pain and what treatment options make sense.