What are some good ankle strengthening exercises?
For the past week, my right ankle has really been hurting and it feels very weak. I almost have to limp on it. It feels like I’ve had it cramped in an uncomfortable position for too long, even though I haven’t. I was thinking that maybe some ankle strengthening exercises would help. Does anyone know some? Thank you.
I do have rheumatoid arthritis in my feet and hands, but this feels totally different.
Thanks texas dancer, but I do those things. I’m a dancer as well (have been for 18 years). I drink milk with every meal. My husband makes fun of me for the amount of milk I drink. The arthritis is not usually a problem when I dance or exercise. It’s most just when I play the piano or write for long periods of time. It’s not too bad in my feet. This pain does not let me go on my "tippy toes" or metatarsals, because it hurts too much. I also can’t flex the ankle. It almost feels like the tendon is damaged somehow, but I don’t think it’s serious enough to go to a doctor about it. I can still walk and everything. I don’t know. Thanks for the suggestion, but I need something a little different…please help!
February 7th, 2010 at 3:41 am
The pain may very well be associated with your RA. If you truly want to strengthen the ankle you should see a physical therapist. I could sit here and try to explain exercises for the ankle but its hard to describe in just words, plus you would need to acquire an exercise band to use. The therapist could demonstrate the exercises, give you a sheet with a picture and description of each exercise, and give you the exercise band. The therapist would also be able to advance the exercises as they became easier for you.
February 7th, 2010 at 3:41 am
well with what im about to tell you please be careful doing the excercises with your arthritis. ive been dancing for 15 years now and the best workout i can give you is calf raises. but hold the position. you can also try walking on your tippy toes. your ankle will eventually get used to holding your body up and therefore use the muscles. drink lots of milk too. building up your bone mass will also help your ankles support your body.
February 7th, 2010 at 3:41 am
I know you’ve been avoiding the whole doctor thing, but if you can’t go on tippy toes or flex the ankle, you probably need to see someone. It could be the beginnings of RA (even if doesn’t "feel" like it) there, or inflammation of the tendon/muscles/etc.
Ankle exercises are for ankles that need to recover from an injury. Admit you have an injury and get medical advice—some exercises are OK for injured ankles and some are definitely NOT.
Come back to us when you’ve found out what you’re working with and we can recommend exercises.