Published on: 4/24/2025
What are potential causes for a weird sensation in the ankle?
A weird sensation in the ankle could be due to issues with the sacroiliac joint, problems with blood flow caused by substances like cocaine, or side effects from medical procedures like an epidural.
Explanation
A strange feeling in the ankle can have several causes. One possible reason is a problem with the sacroiliac joint, which is located in the lower back and can cause symptoms in the legs, including the ankle. This is because the nerves and muscles connected to the sacroiliac joint can affect sensations in the lower limbs.
Another potential cause is poor blood flow to the legs. This can happen if someone uses substances like cocaine, which can lead to a condition called peripheral vascular occlusive disease. More commonly it happens as a complication of chronic tobacco use, high cholesterol and a sedentary lifestyle. This condition means that the blood vessels are blocked, reducing blood flow and causing unusual sensations.
Lastly, medical procedures like an epidural, which is a type of anesthesia, can sometimes lead to temporary changes in sensation. This can include numbness or tingling, known as paraesthesia, in one leg or part of the leg, including the ankle.
If you are experiencing this sensation and it is concerning, it is important to talk to a healthcare provider to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
(References)
- Murakami E, Aizawa T, Kurosawa D, & Noguchi K. (2017). Leg symptoms associated with sacroiliac joint disorder and .... Clinical neurology and neurosurgery, 28410481.
- Gutierrez A, England JD, & Krupski WC. (1998). Cocaine-induced peripheral vascular occlusive disease. Angiology, 9523545.
- Cheung AH, Li LF, So VC, Leung MK, & Lui WM. (2015). Transient monoplegia and paraesthesia after an epidural .... Journal of clinical neuroscience : official journal of the Neurosurgical Society of Australasia, 25986178.
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