Ankle Pain: Causes, Symptoms & Effective Treatments in London

Expert Podiatry and Chiropodists in London

Ankle pain is a common condition that can significantly impact your mobility, whether you're an active runner, a weekend hiker, or simply navigating your daily routine.

At Flawless Feet Podiatry & Laser Clinic, we understand the complex anatomy of the ankle and provide effective, evidence-based solutions for both acute injuries and chronic conditions. With clinics located in Sydenham High Street, Covent Garden, and Croydon, help is never far away.

Achilles tendonitis

Pain located towards the back of the heel and ankle

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Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction

Pain located towards the inside of the ankle

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Common Causes of Ankle Pain

Some of the most frequent causes we treat at Flawless Feet include:

  • Ankle sprains – ligament injuries due to twisting or rolling the ankle

  • Achilles tendinopathy – pain at the back of the heel and ankle

  • Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD) – pain and instability on the inner ankle

  • Stress fractures – often due to overuse or impact in runners

  • Osteoarthritis or inflammatory arthritis – leading to stiffness, swelling, and pain

  • Gait abnormalities or poor foot biomechanics – causing long-term joint stress

Our experienced team conducts a full biomechanical assessment to identify the root cause and customise your treatment.

Understanding Ankle Pain

Your ankle joint allows your foot to move up-and-down and side-to-side. It is supported by multiple ligaments and tendons, making it highly mobile—but also vulnerable to strain and injury. The pressure on your ankle increases significantly during activities like walking, running, or jumping—sometimes up to 8 times your body weight.

Ankle pain can present as sharp, shooting discomfort or as dull, persistent aching, depending on the cause. It may result from an acute injury like a sprain, overuse injury like tendinopathy, or from systemic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout.

Common Causes of Ankle Pain

Some of the most frequent causes we treat at Flawless Feet include:

  • Ankle sprains – ligament injuries due to twisting or rolling the ankle

  • Achilles tendinopathy – pain at the back of the heel and ankle

  • Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD) – pain and instability on the inner ankle

  • Stress fractures – often due to overuse or impact in runners

  • Osteoarthritis or inflammatory arthritis – leading to stiffness, swelling, and pain

  • Gait abnormalities or poor foot biomechanics – causing long-term joint stress

Our experienced team conducts a full biomechanical assessment to identify the root cause and customise your treatment.

Symptoms of Ankle Pain

You may experience one or more of the following:

  • Pain when walking or standing for long periods

  • Swelling around the ankle

  • Limited range of motion

  • Instability or a feeling of the ankle giving way

  • Redness or warmth over the joint

  • Sharp pain during or after activity

If you notice these symptoms persist or worsen over time, it’s best to seek professional help before further damage occurs.

Our Proven Ankle Pain Treatments

At Flawless Feet Podiatry & Laser Clinic in London, we offer a holistic approach to managing ankle pain. Our goal is to reduce pain, restore function, and prevent recurrence through advanced, non-invasive methods.

1. Custom Orthotics

Bespoke insoles that support your arch, improve foot alignment, and reduce stress on the ankle. Ideal for managing biomechanical causes of ankle pain and conditions like flat feet or overpronation.

2. Shockwave Therapy

This non-invasive treatment uses acoustic sound waves to stimulate tissue healing and reduce pain. Effective for chronic conditions like Achilles tendinopathy or insertional ankle pain.

3. Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

LLLT uses targeted light therapy to reduce inflammation, accelerate healing, and promote soft tissue repair. It’s a gentle, pain-free option for both acute injuries and long-standing ankle issues.

4. Rehabilitation Exercises

We provide a tailored program of stretching, strengthening, and mobility exercises to stabilise the ankle joint, improve balance, and prevent future injuries.

5. Footwear Advice

Wearing the right shoes is critical. We guide you in choosing supportive, activity-appropriate footwear to protect your ankle during recovery and everyday life.

Referral to Orthopaedic Specialists

In severe or persistent cases, we collaborate with trusted orthopaedic consultants for advanced imaging, joint injections, or surgical intervention if necessary.

Why Choose Flawless Feet?

Don’t let ankle pain limit your mobility or affect your quality of life. Book a comprehensive biomechanical assessment at one of our London clinics and start your journey to recovery.

  • Trusted Podiatry and Chiropodists in London with decades of experience

  • Multiple clinic locations for convenient appointments

  • Latest technology: Shockwave, Laser Therapy, and Custom Orthotics

  • Personalised care for athletes, seniors, and everyone in between

  • We treat the cause—not just the symptoms

Frequently Asked Questions

If your ankle pain doesn’t improve with rest, worsens over time, or is accompanied by swelling, bruising, or instability—it’s time to see a podiatrist. Early diagnosis can prevent complications.

Yes, biomechanical issues like flat feet or high arches can affect how forces are distributed through your ankle. This often leads to overuse injuries, which can be corrected with orthotics.

Shockwave therapy is safe for most people but may not be recommended for those with certain health conditions or during pregnancy. Your podiatrist will assess your suitability.

Recovery depends on the cause and severity of your condition. With the right treatment plan, many patients see improvement in 4–8 weeks.

Costs vary depending on the therapies used. A detailed treatment plan and cost estimate will be provided after your initial assessment.

Book Your Podiatrist in London

Book your treatment at Flawless Feet Podiatry & Laser Clinic in London and experience expert care designed to relieve discomfort, restore movement, and get you back on your feet, comfortably. 

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Customer Testimonials

Millie conducted a thorough investigation incl. an ultrasound scan and offered a firm diagnosis and treatment plan in only 30 mins. Whilst I would have preferred guidance on all of the aspects of treatment, I understand the limitations of an initial care plan. Ultimately I felt very reassured by Millie's expert advice about my foot issue.

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Constanze Gilbert

My first appointment with Marta was fantastic. She was so helpful and informative. She explained what was happening with my feet, gave me treatment options and allowed me to think on them. I now have a treatment plan and know more about how to take care of my feet and what ill fitting shoes means for their health. Looking forward to my follow up appointment!

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Sadaf Khan

Very nice clinic with lovely staff. My appointment with Marta went great, as she made me feel super comfortable and gave me her recommendations on the best course of action for my issue. Super professional and very clear with communication. Looking forward to seeing her again in the future! Thank you 🙏🏼", "star_review

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Hannah Brisola

Flawless by name, flawless by nature... I had a double nail avulsion treatment for my big toes after suffering intermittently with infections. Marta was incredible, very knowledgable, professional and friendly, the aftercare was also top notch. They've now fully grown back with no issues. I would highly recommend them 100 times over... thank you Flawless Feet Podiatry & Laser Clinic.

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Bella Major

I went to Flawless feet for the first time today & left feeling utterly relieved after having a painful toe for sometime & not understanding the reason. Marta was extremely professional, knowledgeable and welcoming and I left feeling so much better and confident about looking after my feet myself at home, following Marta's suggestions after receiving the treatment. I have booked for a check up in a couple of months & will be avoiding cheap nail bar pedicures in future! Thank you Flawless Feet!

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Sara Tierney

After having tried a few others for foot treatment. Flawless were the first to fully put me at ease. Relaxed, friendly, informative and professional staff are worth their weight in gold. My only regret is not coming to them years ago.

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chris jarman

I would highly recommend Flawless Feet. I had three treatments with Millie after suffering knee pain for three years. I had received physiotherapy, acupuncture and osteopathic treatment, all of which helped but the pain and absence of the full range of motion persisted. Millie successfully treated my knee and after three sessions, assessed me as not requiring further treatment. She made recommendations for suitable trainers amd provided me with additional exercises to the ones issued by a physio. I am happily pain-free now and the full range of mobility has been restored. I would recommend Millie very highly. I was impressed that she did not suggest I needed further treatment or unnecessary assessments.

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Emma Kelly

I visited Marta yesterday with some foot concerns and she was absolutely fantastic. Friendly, reassuring, professional. The clinic was clean, welcoming and I cannot recommend them more highly.

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Robyn Cowling

I definetly recommend Flawless Feet in Sydenham. I have just finished my course of treatment and I felt totally cared for and comforted. The aftercare offered was excellent and Marta made me feel calm and in control throughout the whole procedure too.

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Chloe Graham