Your ankle might lack flexibility primarily due to soft tissue tightness around the joint.
Potential Causes of Ankle Stiffness
Here's a breakdown of possible reasons, according to experts:
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Soft Tissue Tightness: This is a very common reason. Specifically, tightness in your:
- Calf Muscles
- Achilles Tendons
- Other muscles surrounding the ankle joint.
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Past Injuries: Old ankle injuries that haven't fully healed or been properly rehabilitated can lead to stiffness.
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Overuse: Repetitive strain or excessive use of your ankle can cause the joint to become stiff as a protective mechanism, according to Murphy.
What to Do About It
If you're experiencing ankle stiffness, consider these steps:
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Stretch Regularly: Focus on stretches that target the calf muscles and Achilles tendon.
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Rest and Recovery: Give your ankle adequate rest, especially after intense activities.
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Professional Evaluation: If the stiffness is severe, persistent, or accompanied by pain, see a physical therapist or doctor. They can accurately diagnose the cause and recommend specific treatments or exercises.
In summary, ankle stiffness is frequently linked to tight soft tissues, old injuries, or overuse that could cause protective mechanisms, resulting in a lack of flexibility.
