Understanding Ankle Pain in the Elderly: How Occupational Therapy Can Help

By Julie McCormick, Co-Owner | July 9, 2025 | Comments Off on Understanding Ankle Pain in the Elderly: How Occupational Therapy Can Help
occupational therapy in Manassas City, VA

Occupational Therapy in Manassas City VA

Ankle pain is a common yet often overlooked issue among older adults. As we age, the likelihood of experiencing ankle discomfort increases significantly due to a combination of biological, lifestyle, and medical factors. Recognizing the causes and seeking proper treatment—such as occupational therapy—can dramatically improve quality of life for seniors.

Why Ankle Pain Becomes More Common with Age

Several age-related changes contribute to the prevalence of ankle injuries in the elderly:

  • Decreased Muscle Strength: Aging leads to the natural weakening of muscles and ligaments, especially in the lower extremities, which reduces stability and increases fall risk.
  • Joint Wear and Tear: Decades of use can wear down cartilage and cause joints in the foot and ankle to become stiff and painful.
  • Balance and Gait Changes: Seniors may walk differently due to vision decline, medication side effects, or neurological conditions, increasing the chance of twisting an ankle.
  • Inactivity: Sedentary lifestyles lead to reduced flexibility and muscle mass, weakening the ankle-supporting structures.
  • Weight Gain: Added body weight puts increased pressure on already vulnerable ankle joints.
  • Chronic Conditions:
    • Osteoporosis weakens bones, making fractures more likely.
    • Arthritis erodes cartilage and inflames joints, contributing to chronic ankle discomfort.

Four Common Ankle Issues in the Elderly

Here are the most frequent types of ankle injuries and conditions affecting seniors:

1. Ankle Sprains

  • Caused by overstretched or torn ligaments, often from sudden movements like tripping on uneven surfaces.
  • Common symptoms: swelling, bruising, and limited mobility.
  • If untreated, repeated sprains can lead to chronic instability.

Treatment Tips:

  • Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE).
  • Gradual reintroduction to movement under guidance from an occupational therapist.

2. Ankle Fractures

  • More serious than sprains, fractures result from significant impact or twisting.
  • Symptoms mimic sprains but with more severe pain and slower recovery.

Important Note: Without proper imaging and treatment, fractures may heal incorrectly, causing long-term disability.

3. Achilles Tendon Injuries

  • The Achilles tendon connects calf muscles to the heel and can become inflamed or torn with age and overuse.
  • Conditions like Achilles tendonitis are common in older adults who remain active or suddenly increase activity.

Red Flags: Sharp heel pain, swelling, or difficulty walking may indicate a partial or complete rupture.

4. Ankle Arthritis

  • A degenerative condition where cartilage wears away, causing bone-on-bone friction.
  • Leads to persistent pain, joint stiffness, and reduced mobility.

Management Includes:

  • Anti-inflammatory medications.
  • Physical or occupational therapy to maintain joint function.
  • In severe cases, surgical interventions such as ankle fusion or replacement.

The Role of Occupational Therapy in Recovery and Prevention

Occupational therapy (OT) plays a critical role in both rehabilitating ankle injuries and preventing further complications in seniors.

Benefits of At-Home Occupational Therapy:

  • Customized Recovery Plans: Tailored exercises to improve strength, balance, and flexibility.
  • Environmental Assessments: Therapists identify fall hazards in the home (e.g., loose rugs, poor lighting).
  • Assistive Device Training: Proper use of canes, walkers, and braces to support recovery.
  • Daily Task Modification: Teaching safe methods for dressing, bathing, and moving through the home.

Why Choose Home-Based Therapy?

  • Eliminates the stress and risk of travel for injured or mobility-limited seniors.
  • One-on-one attention ensures better outcomes.
  • Enables faster healing and restores confidence in movement.

Final Thoughts

Ankle pain doesn’t have to mean a permanent decrease in mobility or independence for your elderly loved one. By understanding the root causes and leveraging targeted occupational therapy interventions, seniors can regain comfort and confidence in their daily lives.

If your loved one is experiencing ankle pain or recovering from an injury, consult with a healthcare provider to explore how occupational therapy can make a difference—especially when delivered in the comfort and safety of home.

If you or an aging loved one are considering occupational therapy in Manassas City, VA, please contact the caring staff at LivinRite Home Care. Serving Northern Virginia, The Valley, and Surrounding Communities – call us today at (703) 369-6677.

Julie McCormick, Co-Owner
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Posted in Occupational Therapy