FOOT AND ANKLE

 

The constant use of the lower extremities makes them an easy target for injury and pain, specifically in the knees and feet. Walking, sitting and standing all put pressure on our knees and feet, while most athletic activities rely on them as well. Knee and foot pain are common ailments that affect thousands of people in the US each year. These symptoms may be a result of the same condition or can be completely separate. It is important to determine the source of the pain in order to successfully treat these conditions.

  • Achilles Tendinitis
  • Achilles Tendon Rupture
  • Ankle Sprain
  • Ankle Arthritis
  • Jones Fracture
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Shin Splints

 

CAUSES OF FOOT PAIN

 

Like knee pain, foot pain can be caused by several different factors that include injury, disease and infection. There are also several deformities that can occur in the feet and cause pain. Even wearing shoes that are too tight can lead to severe and chronic pain. Common causes of foot pain include:

  • Fractures
  • Arthritis
  • Gout
  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Bursitis
  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Tendonitis

Foot pain can occur in any area of the foot, from the toes to the heel and up to the ankle. While some cases may be short and mild, others can be severely disabling and may cause trouble walking and stiffness.

 

ACHILLES TENDONITIS/ACHILLES TENDON RUPTURE

 

Achilles tendonitis is an inflammation of the Achilles tendon, the strong band of tissue that connects the calf muscle to the heel. This condition frequently affects athletes and occurs when the stress placed on the tendon is too strong. Achilles tendonitis is usually a painful but short-lived condition.

When too much stress is placed on the Achilles tendon, it may tear and become inflamed as a result of improper technique, overuse, flattening the arch of the foot or trauma. As this stress occurs, symptoms may begin to appear gradually. Symptoms of Achilles tendonitis include:

  • Dull pain while walking
  • Tenderness
  • Stiffness
  • Swelling
  • Soreness

Achilles tendonitis increases your risk of rupturing your Achilles tendon, a condition that requires immediate attention. A ruptured tendon will cause sudden, severe pain and swelling and difficulty walking. Your doctor can diagnose Achilles tendonitis or a ruptured tendon through a physical examination and imaging test.

If you are suffering from Achilles tendonitis, you may be able to treat the condition at home through rest, ice and over-the-counter pain medication. If these methods are ineffective, your doctor may recommend orthotics, a walking boot, crutches or surgery for more severe cases. Surgery removes the inflamed tissue in the area.

You can reduce your risk for Achilles tendonitis by monitoring your physical activity and taking precautions to make sure you are physically fit and prepared enough to handle each activity.

 

ANKLE SPRAIN

 

A sprain is a stretching or tearing of one or more ligaments, the tough fibrous bands that hold the ankle bones in place. Sprains can be caused by anything from a sports injury or accident to stepping on an uneven or sloped surface. Generally, the movements that can stretch a ligament beyond its normal range are twisting, rolling and turning of the foot. Sprains are divided into categories based on the severity of the injury, from Grade 1 (slight damage to the ligament) to Grade 3 (complete tear). Symptoms may include pain, swelling, stiffness and bruising. There may be a popping sound when the ankle is moved or touched. The ankle may be unstable or unable to hold weight.

Sprained ankles should be examined by a doctor to rule out the possibility of a bone fracture or other damage. Professional diagnosis and care will also ensure that the joint heals properly, limiting the chance of further injury.

 

SHIN SPLINTS

 

Shin splints, or medial tibial stress syndrome, are a common exercise-related condition characterized by pain along or just behind the shins. Pain occurs about two-thirds of the way down the leg below the knee, spans several inches, and tends to worsen with activity. This discomfort results from inflammation of the thin layer of tissue covering the tibia, as well as from the bone itself and two of the muscles that attach to it (the soleus muscle and flexor digitorum longus, which help you push off your foot and flex your toes).

Shin splints are common in people who begin a new training regimen after a period of inactivity. They may also occur when intensifying an existing training regimen. Contributing factors include running speed and distance, exercising on angled or very hard surfaces, and footwear with weak support or worn soles. Runners, aerobic dancers and military personnel are prone to shin splints because of the stresses placed on their lower legs, as are people with flat feet, rigid arches and “knock knees” or “bow legs.”

 

To learn more about our Foot & Ankle Procedures & Treatments, please contact us at (504) 541-5800 today to schedule an appointment.