What might be the underlying reasons for having pain in both ankles?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Pain in both ankles is often caused by injuries, arthritis, tendonitis, or ankle impingement. Other possible causes include gout, flat feet, or overuse from repetitive activity. Identifying the underlying cause is essential to finding the right treatment and preventing long-term damage.

Because ankle pain can stem from so many different conditions—some minor, others requiring prompt medical attention—guessing isn't the safest approach. Taking a free, instant, online symptom check can help you better understand what's likely causing your discomfort and guide your next steps, whether that's rest and home care or seeing a doctor.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/14/2026

Important Next Steps

Find likely causes of ankle pain Learn if ankle pain needs care Discover what causes both ankles to hurt See OTC options for ankle pain Find an ankle specialist near you Understand home remedies for ankle pain Check if painful ankles need urgent care

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Explanation

Pain in both ankles can result from a variety of conditions. Injuries such as sprains are common and can lead to chronic pain if not properly healed. Arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, can cause pain and stiffness in the ankle joints.

Another potential cause is ankle impingement, where soft tissues around the ankle become pinched, leading to pain. This can occur due to repeated movements or previous injuries.

To understand the exact reason for ankle pain, you can start by using a free symptom checker to help identify potential causes. A healthcare provider might then conduct physical exams and imaging tests. Knowing the cause is crucial for effective treatment, which may include rest, physical therapy, or medication.

(References)

Wukich DK, & Tuason DA. (2011). Diagnosis and treatment of chronic ankle pain. Instructional course lectures, 21553785.
Rao S, Riskowski JL, & Hannan MT. (2012). Musculoskeletal conditions of the foot and ankle. Best practice & research. Clinical rheumatology, 22867931.
Hess GW. (2011). Ankle impingement syndromes: a review of etiology and .... Foot & ankle specialist, 21926368.

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