What are the signs of a foot or ankle problem?
Foot and ankle problems caused by trauma, overuse, or wear and tear can present the following symptoms:
- Foot and ankle pain
- Swelling and bruising
- Stiffness or decreased range of motion
- Sharp, tearing pain in the sole of your foot
- Pain that’s worse with the first few steps out of bed
- Pain when wearing work boots
- Bony changes in your toes
- Weakness in your foot
Foot and ankles injuries can make normal tasks extremely difficult, especially if your daily work tasks or exercise plan causes flare-ups.
What types of foot and ankle conditions cause pain?
Any anatomical structure in your foot or ankle may be a source of pain. Common issues that affect the ankle and foot include:
- Plantar fasciitis
- Achilles tendinitis
- Ankle sprains
- Muscle strains
- Compartment syndrome
- Morton’s neuroma
- Arthritis
- Bunions
- Fractures
Some conditions are caused by overuse, anatomical changes, or trauma to your feet. Work injuries, including trips, falls, and dropping heavy objects on your feet are another common reason men and women visit Ortho One Jacksonville.
How are foot and ankle pain diagnosed and treated?
To determine the cause of your pain, the Ortho One team first asks about the location of your pain, what type of pain sensation you feel — such as sharp, stabbing, achy, or stiff — and what activities aggravate your pain. Your provider then examines your foot, measuring the range of motion of your ankle and applying pressure to your ankle, arch, and toes.
Certain tests are used to stretch your plantar fascia and Achilles tendon and assess the ligaments in your ankle. Additional imaging, including X-rays or an MRI, may be beneficial for the diagnosis of some conditions.
Once the team has evaluated their findings, they diagnose the cause of your pain and recommend a treatment plan. Treatment options include:
- Rest
- Orthotic devices
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications
- Physical therapy
- Massage therapy
- Prescription made medications
- Joint injections
- Surgery
In most cases of ankle and foot injuries, conservative care is enough to relieve pain and get you back to your usual routine. If you’ve experienced a fracture, muscle or ligament tear, or other major injuries, surgery may be necessary.
To set up a foot or ankle exam, call Ortho One Jacksonville or schedule an appointment online today.
