Chronic lateral ankle pain is recurring or chronic pain on the outside part of the ankle that often develops after an injury such as a sprained ankle. Other conditions, however, may also cause chronic ankle pain. Signs and symptoms include: * Ankle instability. * Difficulty walking on uneven ground or in high heels. * Pain, sometimes intense, on the outer side of the ankle. * Repeated ankle sprains. * Stiffness. * Swelling. * Tenderness. While ankle sprains are the most common cause of chronic lateral ankle pain, other causes may include: * A fracture in one of the bones that make up the ankle joint. * Arthritis of the ankle joint. * Inflammation of the joint lining. * Injury to the nerves that pass through the ankle. In this case, the nerves become stretched, torn, injured by a direct blow, or pinched under pressure. * Scar tissue in the ankle after a sprain. The scar tissue takes up space in the joint, putting pressure on the ligaments. * Torn or inflamed tendon. Treatments for chronic lateral ankle pain include: * Over the counter or prescription anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling. Consult your physician before taking any medications. * Physical therapy, including tilt-board exercises, directed at strengthening the muscles, restoring range of motion, and increasing your perception of joint position. * Ankle braces or other supports. * Steroid medication. * Immobilization to allow the bone to heal (in cases of fractures).