Foot/Ankle Pain

Foot and Ankle Pain: Causes and Symptoms

What causes foot and ankle pain?

Foot and ankle pain can arise from a variety of factors. Here are some common causes:

1. Injury: Sprains, fractures, and strains are common injuries that can result in foot and ankle pain. These injuries can occur during sports activities, accidents, or even from everyday activities.
2. Overuse: Prolonged or repetitive activities, such as running or standing for long periods, can put excessive strain on your feet and ankles, leading to pain.
3. Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions like arthritis, gout, plantar fasciitis, and Achilles Tendinitis can cause chrnic foot and ankle pain. These conditions may involve inflammation, degeneration, or abnormalities in the structure of your feet and ankles.

What are the symptoms of foot and ankle pain?

The symptoms of foot and ankle pain may vary depending on the underlying cause. However, some common symtpoms include:

1. Pain: This can range from mild to severe, and it may be constant or itermittent.
2. Swelling: Inflammation can cause swelling in the affected area, making it difficult to move or put weight on your foot/ankle.
3. Redness and Warmth: In some cases, foot and ankle pain may be accompanied by noticeable redness and increases temperature in the affected area.
4. Limited Mobility: If your foot or ankle is painful, you may have difficulty moving or participating in regular activities.

Foot and Ankle Pain: Diagnosis and Treatment Options:

Some common diagnosis related to this pain that we can treat:

1. Plantar Faciitis: Inflammation of the plantar fascia, tissue in the foot during walking and foot movement.
2. Osteoarthritis: A degenerative joint disease, in which the tissue in the joints break down over time.
3. Achilles Tendinopathy: A combination of pathological changes affecting the Achilles Tendon ussually due to overuse and excessive chronic stress upon the tendon.
4. Peroneal Tendinopathy: A condition that often causes pain around the outside of the foot/ankle which eases with rest and worsens with activity such as walking/running.
5. MTP Synovitis (Metatarsalgia): A condition in which the ball of your foot becomes painful and inflamed typically due to activities such as running and jumping.
6. Nonunion after a fracture: The failure of a fractured bone to heal and mend after an extended period of time. 
7. Malunion after fracture: When a fractured bone heals in an abnormal position, which can lead to impaired function of the foot.

How can foot and ankle pain be treated?

The treatment for foot and ankle pain will depend on the uderlying cause. Here are some common treatment options:

1. Steroid Injection: An anti-inflammatory medication is injected into the targeted area.
2. Platelet Rich Plasma: We use your own blood cells to accelerate healing in a specific targeted area.
3. Ice and Heat Therapy: Applying ice and/or heat to the affected area can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
4. Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can provide temporary relief from discomfort.
5. Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can help you to strengthen and stretch muscles and tendons in your feet and ankles, promoting healing and reducing pain.
6. Rest and Elevation: Giving your feet and ankles sufficient rest and elevating them can help reduce pain and swelling.

When should you see a healthcare professional?

While mild foot and ankle pain may resolve on its own with rest and self-care, certain situations warrent a visit to a healthcare proffessional. Call our office today if your experiencing:

1. Severe Pain: Intense or persistent pain should be evaluated by a healthcare proffessional to determine the cause and appropriate treatment. 
2. Inability to Bear Weight: If you are unable to put weight on your foot or ankle, it may indicate a severe injury or medical condition that requires immediate attention.
3. Deformity: Any visible deformity, such as a misaligned bone or joint, should be assessed by a healthcare proffessional.

Foot and Ankle pain can be a debilitating condition that affects your daily activities and quality of life. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options can help you effectively manage and treat your discomfort. Remember to listen to your body, rest when needed, and seek medical attention if your pain worsens or persists. By taking proactive steps, you can help alleviate foot and ankle pain and get back to enjoying a pain-free lifestyle.