Whenever any condition or trauma impairs this structure’s ability to support and articulate the ankle, ankle pain is likely to plague you as an unfortunate side effect.Two of the most common acute ankle injuries are strains and sprains. A strain occurs when a muscle or tendon is stretched or torn. A sprain is the same kind of damage, occurring in a ligament. Either injury can cause intense pain and swelling and reduced range of motion. Strains may also cause muscle spasms, while sprains are more likely to produce visible bruising. Physical therapists may supplement exercises with soothing physical therapy techniques such as massage therapy, heat, ice, or ultrasound therapy.