Ankle Stiffness
Ankle stiffness is when your ankle feels difficult to move around or is completely locked in position. The stiffness may be related to a sprain, strain, or tendonitis that has occurred in your ankle.
Stiffness is also a symptom of arthritis, especially rheumatoid arthritis. Thus, doctors will probably need to look at both ankles and other articulations to compare your symptoms. Do you have the same problem in both ankles or only one? When it is located in both, we’re talking about symmetric joint problems, which are more likely due to rheumatoid arthritis. It is also important to evaluate when stiffness occurs. When it happens in the early morning, and after periods of inactivity, rheumatoid arthritis will be one of the diagnoses to rule out.
The treatment for ankle stiffness will depend on the cause. If you’ve had a severe injury that compromises stability, you may need surgery or physical therapy to restore stability. Physical therapy includes ankle exercises to stretch and strengthen the muscles in the affected area. Surgery is recommended when doctors need to repair or replace damaged ligaments and tendons.