Tendonitis

Tendons are tough but flexible cord-like structures that are located where the muscle meets the bone.  The tendon actually connects the muscle to the bone.  Tendons are present in your shoulders, wrists, fingers, elbows, hips, knees and ankles at every bendable joint.  Tendonitis is inflammation or deterioration of the tendons, causing pain of the soft tissue around muscles and bones.

Although anyone can get tendonitis, it is more common in adults over the age of 40 when tendons become less elastic, bear less stress and tear more easily.  Tendonitis also occurs with repetitive use of the joint.  The pain for tendonitis is severe and often occurs suddenly.
Treatment for tendonitis of your foot/ankle includes rest, using ice to reduce swelling and elevating your foot.

Of course, avoiding the repetitive use of the joint is important also.  Corticosteroid injections may be used to decrease persistent pain and swelling and surgery may be an option if severe problems persist.