Ankle pain is a common condition treated by Dr. Thomas Silver at the Westwood Foot Clinic. One of the most common causes of ankle pain is from injury, typically from an “inversion sprain” in which the ankle rolls inward. Other common causes include chronic straining secondary to a weak or imbalanced foot structure, overuse syndrome, tendonitis, arthritic conditions, sports injuries or prior ankle fracture.

Ankle Injuries/Sprains/Strains:

A simple ankle sprain can become a chronic problem if you do not immobilize or rest your ankle after the injury. With more serious sprains there is always the possibility of torn ligaments, bone chips or fracture. Untreated ankle sprains can lead to chronic instability and/or chronic ankle pain.

Initial treatment for most injuries involves rest, immobilization, compression and ice (R.I.C.E.). More severe sprains may require up to 8 weeks of immobilization with an ankle brace or cast boot, (which is available in our clinic) and may require non-weight bearing with a knee walker or crutches. X-rays and diagnostic ultrasound can be performed in our clinic or an MRI may be necessary to fully evaluate your injury. More serious injuries such as fractures, bone chips or complete ligament ruptures require more immediate treatment and if Dr. Silver is not able to be take care of this then he can refer you to a doctor with specialized training in more complex injuries and trauma.

Dr. Silver sees many student athletes with ankle sprains who are anxious to get back into sports. His advice is that when rest and immobilization is needed, taking the time off from sports will allow for healing and can prevent you from having a chronic problem in the future.

Overuse Syndrome, Tendonitis and Ankle Arthritis:

Treatment for these conditions may involve changes in activities, shoes, an ankle brace, prescription or non-prescription foot orthotics, cortisone injections, physical therapy or surgery. As a prior distance runner, Dr. Silver understands runner’s problems. He works with runners to determine the best shoe type, form, stretches and training program to help with ankle problems due to overuse or tendonitis and specializes in the evaluation and fitting of prescription foot orthotics.

If you or someone you care about has an ankle problem, then an evaluation with Dr. Silver at the Westwood Foot Clinic in Golden Valley, MN is necessary to determine the best treatment necessary to get you pain-free.

Click here or call (763) 231-2341 now for an appointment with Dr. Silver at the Westwood Foot Clinic in Golden Valley, MN.

You can also reach us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with any questions or concerns.

Westwood Foot Clinic serves the community of Golden Valley and surrounding communities, including St. Louis Park, Plymouth, New Hope, Crystal, Robbinsdale, Wayzata, Minnetonka and Minneapolis.