Ankle pain when moving your toes can be due to a few potential issues, often stemming from the interconnectedness of the muscles, tendons, and bones in your foot and ankle. Here's a breakdown of possible causes:
Potential Causes of Ankle Pain with Toe Movement:
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Ankle Impingement/Fracture: A forceful impact or injury to the ankle can sometimes cause small bone fragments to break off. When you move your toes downward (plantar flexion), these fragments can compress tissues, leading to inflammation, swelling, and ultimately, pain in the ankle. This is because the muscles that control toe movement originate in the lower leg and connect to the foot and ankle via tendons.
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Tendonitis: Tendons that run along the ankle and into the foot are responsible for toe movement. Inflammation of these tendons (tendonitis), such as the tibialis anterior tendon (helps with lifting the foot and toes) or peroneal tendons (stabilize the ankle and assist with outward movement of the foot) , can cause pain that is exacerbated by toe movements.
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Nerve Entrapment: Nerves in the ankle area can become compressed or irritated, leading to pain that radiates when specific movements, including toe flexion or extension, are performed. Tarsal tunnel syndrome, for example, involves compression of the tibial nerve in the ankle, and toe movements might aggravate the condition.
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Arthritis: While less directly linked, arthritis in the ankle joint can sometimes cause referred pain or stiffness that is worsened by any foot or ankle movement, including those involving the toes. Osteoarthritis, in particular, can cause pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion.
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Referred Pain: Problems in the foot (e.g., a metatarsal stress fracture) can sometimes manifest as pain in the ankle, especially when you move your toes.
When to Seek Medical Attention:
If your ankle pain is severe, persistent, accompanied by swelling or bruising, or limits your ability to walk or bear weight, consult a healthcare professional. They can properly diagnose the underlying cause and recommend the appropriate treatment.
