What could cause lateral ankle pain and how is it treated?

Lateral ankle pain, which is pain on the outside of the ankle, can happen for several reasons. One common cause is an ankle sprain, where the ligaments are stretched or torn due to twisting or rolling the ankle. Other causes include arthritis, tendonitis, or even fractures. Sometimes, the pain can be due to more unusual conditions like nerve entrapment or bone spurs.

Treatment Options:

1. Rest and Ice: It's important to rest the ankle and apply ice to reduce swelling.
2. Compression and Elevation: Wrapping the ankle with a bandage and keeping it elevated can help.
3. Physical Therapy: Exercises can improve strength and flexibility.
4. Medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers may be used to manage pain.
5. Surgery: In rare cases, surgery might be needed if the injury is severe.

If the pain doesn’t get better with these treatments, it’s important to see a healthcare provider for further evaluation and care.