What causes chronic soft tissue inflammation in sometimes different parts of the ankle ? I ve had blood work, X-rays and MRI s with no discovery. Most of the time if I m off it there is no discomfort, unless it s acute. I have tried acupuncture and integrated manual therapy, but nothing seems to last. Two years ago I stepped off a curb and felt a sharp twinge at the back of my ankle, it swelled and was extremely painful . I saw an Ortho for Sports Medicine for 6 months , I went on crutches for awhile and NSAIDs. He also tried a cotizone shot in the front of the ankle, which didn t seem to make any difference. They sent me to a Rhuematologist and they suggested Psuedogout. I have more mobility now, but it seems to be constantly there. Some days it almost seems like it s gone, then the next day it s back with a vengeance. When the inflammation moves toward the lower heal or at the base of the outside right ankle bone, it can be extremely painful with each step. I m not on any meds for anything. I do take vitamin d, fermented cod liver oil, L-glutamine and Aleve when the pain is acute.