Welcome to Neuro talk. If your ankles are really that bad, seek out an orthopedic doctor. My ankles are shot, so I know the pain you are experiencing. I do take medications as I can't do the tendon transfers. At least after a number of years I got an MRI. That is the best when trying to determine what is going on. Do other joints hurt? Arthritis can be serious, and just be in one location too. Keep in touch. ginnie