Why Does My Ankle Hurt When I Power Walk?

Ankle pain may be related to factors such as muscle strain around the ankle joint, plantar fasciitis, and retrocalcaneal bursitis. Here are the details:

1. Muscle Strain Around the Ankle Joint: It is a chronic, repetitive, and cumulative micro-injury, which is a type of aseptic inflammation. During fast walking, the ankle and surrounding muscles bear significant gravitational force, potentially leading to sudden muscle tension. This manifests as muscle fatigue pain, local tenderness, limited range of motion, etc. In severe cases, there may be persistent pain, muscle hardening, and functional impairment.

2. Plantar Fasciitis: This condition is an aseptic inflammation caused by strain on the plantar tendons or fascia. Common symptoms include heel pain, ankle pain, and tender points on the sole of the foot. Especially in the morning, the pain is more noticeable, and excessive walking can exacerbate it. In severe cases, even standing and resting can cause pain.

3. Retrocalcaneal Bursitis: It occurs in acute or chronic inflammation related to the bone bursa and is associated with long-term repeated friction and compression in that area. Initially, a hard, tender erythematous patch forms locally, accompanied by symptoms such as local pain and movement disorders, which then develops into painful redness and swelling. It may also be related to Achilles tendinitis.

It is recommended to consult a doctor first to identify the specific cause and choose an appropriate treatment plan accordingly. During the treatment of related diseases, personal life care should be taken, such as paying attention to combining exertion with rest, avoiding prolonged intense exercise, and wearing comfortable shoes and socks. Meanwhile, patients should also follow the doctor's advice for regular follow-ups to observe the specific recovery of the affected area.