Having ankle pain at night can be annoying and sometimes worrying. Your ankles might hurt for many reasons when you try to rest, and this discomfort can interfere with your sleep and daily activities. Here are five common reasons why you could be feeling pain at night and what you can do about it.

1. Arthritis Can Make Your Ankles Hurt More at Night

Arthritis, like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, is a common reason for ankle pain, especially at night. The Arthritis Foundation says that joint swelling and stiffness can get worse when you rest. Arthritis happens when the protective cartilage in the joint wears down over time, leading to pain and inflammation. Signs of arthritis in your ankles may include:

Swelling and soreness in the ankle
Trouble moving the ankle
Pain that feels worse at night
Stiffness in the morning
A grinding sensation in the joint

If you think you have arthritis, talk to your doctor about treatments like medicine, physical therapy, and changes to your daily habits. Losing weight and staying active can also help reduce pain and improve mobility.

2. Pinched Nerves Can Cause Nighttime Ankle Pain

Conditions like tarsal tunnel syndrome, where a nerve in your ankle is squeezed, can cause sharp, burning pain that gets worse at night. This happens when the tibial nerve is compressed as it travels through the tarsal tunnel, a narrow space inside the ankle. Other signs of nerve problems include:

Tingling or numbness in your foot
A burning feeling that gets worse with movement
Weakness in your foot
Shooting pain that spreads up the leg

Doctors might suggest wearing special shoes, doing exercises, or in some cases, having surgery to fix the problem. Stretching and avoiding activities that put pressure on the nerve can also provide relief.

3. Too Much Activity or an Injury Can Cause Pain

If you walk, run, or stand a lot, your ankles can get sore, especially at night. Overuse injuries happen when you put too much stress on your ankles without giving them enough time to rest. Old injuries like sprains or broken bones can also cause pain. Some signs of overuse or injury include:

Pain that gets worse when you move
Swelling and redness
Bruising or tenderness
Stiffness after activity
A popping or snapping feeling during movement

Resting, using ice, and keeping your foot up can help, but if the pain doesn’t go away, see a doctor. They might recommend physical therapy, braces, or anti-inflammatory medications to ease discomfort.

4. Poor Blood Flow Can Lead to Ankle Pain

If your blood isn’t flowing well, like with peripheral artery disease (PAD) or vein problems, it can cause pain in your ankles. Blood flow problems happen when the arteries become narrow or blocked, making it harder for blood to reach your legs and feet. Signs of blood flow issues include:

Cramping or throbbing pain
Cold feet and ankles
Swelling that gets worse at night
Shiny or discolored skin on the feet
Numbness or tingling

Exercise, healthy eating, and medications from your doctor can help with circulation problems. Wearing compression socks and keeping your legs elevated can also enhance blood flow and lessen swelling.

5. Gout Can Cause Sudden, Severe Ankle Pain

Gout, which happens when too much uric acid builds up in your body, can cause sudden and severe pain in your ankle, often at night. Uric acid forms sharp crystals in the joint, leading to intense pain and swelling. Signs of gout include:

Sharp pain that starts suddenly
Red, warm skin around the ankle
Swelling that makes it hard to move
Tenderness to touch
Stiffness after an attack

Doctors usually recommend changes in diet, medicine to lower uric acid, and drinking plenty of water to help manage gout. Avoiding foods high in purines, such as red meat and alcohol, can also help prevent future flare-ups.

Summary

Ankle pain at night can come from arthritis, nerve problems, too much activity, poor blood flow, or gout. Finding out what’s causing your pain is important so you can get the right treatment. Taking care of your ankles with proper rest, stretching, and medical advice can help you stay active and pain-free. If your ankle pain doesn’t go away or gets worse, see a doctor to find out what’s wrong and how to treat it.