Even the tiniest muscles are prone to twitching and this includes in the ankle.
Often, the arch or a single toe starts twitching, but the small muscles in the ankle joint may also act up from time to time for no apparent reason.
“Twitching in any muscle can be caused by a number of reasons,” says J. Mark Anderson, MD, DABFM, of Executive Medicine of Texas and who is board certified in family medicine.
The way a voluntary (skeletal) muscle fires or contracts—as instructed by an electrochemical nerve impulse — is the same sequence of physiologic events regardless of where the muscle is located (e.g., ankle, hamstring, chest, thumb) or the kind of voluntary muscle (how the fibers are arranged and type of tendon insertion).
Causes of Tiny Ankle and Bigger Muscle Twitching
The type of “twitching” here refers to what often happens in one’s eyelid. This kind of fasciculation can occur with any muscle that we can voluntarily move.
Dr. Anderson explains, “Some common reasons are deficiencies in vitamin D or calcium, as well as an electrolyte imbalance.
“Twitching can also be a sign of overuse or misuse. While twitching in the ankles is less common, the same holds true.
“Overuse can be caused by standing too long, and misuse can be from wearing heels or shoes that don’t give the proper support to the feet and ankles.
“Muscles and tendons that are strained may spasm, especially at night. While this is not a serious condition, it can interrupt sleep or be uncomfortable.”
Solutions for Ankle Twitches
“Exercises such as toe points and ankle circles will help relieve symptoms,” says Dr. Anderson.
“If twitching or spasms continue for more than a day or so, see your healthcare provider to check vitamin and mineral levels in your blood.”
Dr. Anderson is coauthor of the award-winning book, “Stay Young: 10 Proven Steps to Ultimate Health,” and host of the nationally syndicated Staying Young Show which goes to podcast as Staying Young Show 2.0.
Lorra Garrick has been covering medical, fitness and cybersecurity topics for many years, having written thousands of articles for print magazines and websites, including as a ghostwriter. She’s also a former ACE-certified personal trainer.
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