
Ankle pain is a common complaint that can result from acute injuries such as sprains, or develop gradually through overuse and tendon problems. Left unassessed, ankle problems can become persistent and affect long-term function.
At Tenby Health we focus on identifying the exact cause of your ankle pain before recommending treatment.
Every appointment begins with understanding why you're in pain. Depending on your symptoms, this may involve a detailed clinical assessment, diagnostic ultrasound where appropriate, and a clear explanation of your diagnosis and treatment options.
Ankle ligament sprains
The most common ankle injury. Lateral ankle sprains affect the ligaments on the outside of the ankle. Proper assessment helps determine severity and guides the right rehabilitation approach.
Peroneal tendinopathy
Irritation or degeneration of the peroneal tendons running along the outer ankle. Often develops following repeated sprains or overuse.
Achilles tendinopathy
Degeneration or irritation of the Achilles tendon at the back of the ankle. Focused shockwave therapy has strong evidence for this condition.
Tibialis posterior tendinopathy
Affects the tendon on the inner ankle and can contribute to flat foot pain.
Anterior ankle impingement
Bony or soft tissue pinching at the front of the ankle, common in footballers and active individuals.
Ankle arthritis
Age-related or post-traumatic joint changes causing pain and stiffness.
Retrocalcaneal bursitis
Inflammation of the bursa between the Achilles tendon and heel bone.
Your assessment includes a thorough case history and physical examination. If diagnostic musculoskeletal ultrasound is useful, this can be used to assess:
● Ligaments - particularly following sprains
● Peroneal, Achilles and tibialis posterior tendons
● Bursa
● Soft tissue swelling and fluid
Treatment depends on your diagnosis and may include:
● Rehabilitation exercise targeting ankle strength, stability and proprioception
● Focused shockwave therapy for Achilles tendinopathy and other tendon conditions
● Chiropractic care and manual therapy
● Activity modification and load management
● Referral for X-ray or MRI where indicated
If this is affecting your daily life, the most important first step is an accurate assessment.
Book a new patient consultation and your clinician will assess you thoroughly, explain clearly what is causing your symptoms and discuss all your options.
No referral is needed. Appointments are usually available within days.
If a diagnostic ultrasound scan is appropriate, it can usually be carried out in the same appointment for an additional fee of £200.
Most people leave their first appointment with a clear diagnosis and a plan for the first time.
No. You can self-refer directly to Tenby Health. Appointments are usually available within days.
Yes. If clinically indicated, diagnostic ultrasound can be used to assess the ankle ligaments and surrounding soft tissues following a sprain. It can help determine the severity of ligament injury and guides the appropriate rehabilitation approach.
Yes. Persistent pain after an ankle sprain is not uncommon and can relate to ligament damage, tendon irritation or joint changes that have not been properly rehabilitated. An accurate assessment helps identify the cause and the right next steps.
Focused shockwave therapy has evidence supporting its use for Achilles tendinopathy and may also be used for some other ankle tendon conditions. Your clinician will advise whether it is appropriate for your specific diagnosis.
A new patient consultation is £65. If a diagnostic ultrasound scan is appropriate, it can usually be carried out in the same appointment for an additional fee. Your clinician will discuss this at your appointment.