What are foot and ankle pain?
Foot and ankle pain are common pain conditions that affect your feet or ankles. The type and severity of your pain may depend on the underlying cause. Additionally, pain in your foot may develop from problems in your ankle, and vice versa.
You may be able to resolve your foot or ankle pain with at-home care. However, if your pain is severe, fails to improve within a week of home care, or is getting worse, contact Puziss Orthopedics to schedule an evaluation.
What causes foot and ankle pain?
You may develop foot or ankle pain from many causes, including an acute injury, foot deformity, misalignment, or an underlying disease.
Common causes of foot and ankle pain include:
- Ankle and foot sprains
- Tendinitis
- Fractures
- Achilles tendinitis
- Achilles tear or rupture
- Plantar fasciitis
- Heel spurs
- Bunions
- Hammertoes
- Flatfoot
- Arthritis
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome (nerve compression)
- Morton’s neuroma (thickening of the nerve between the toes)
- Plantar warts
- Ankle instability
- Recurring ankle sprains
Problems with your knees, hips, or back may also cause foot or ankle pain.
What happens during a foot or ankle pain consultation?
You can expect an in-depth consultation for your foot or ankle pain when you visit Puziss Orthopedics. Dr. Puziss aims to find the root cause of your discomfort so he can develop an effective treatment plan.
Dr. Puziss reviews your symptoms, including when the pain started, the location of your pain and the type of discomfort you feel, as well as any activities that worsen the pain. He also asks about your daily routine and activities and performs a physical exam.
Dr. Puziss may then run diagnostic tests, such as digital X-rays, MRIs, or nerve conduction studies, to confirm or rule out a suspected diagnosis.
How are foot and ankle pain treated?
Treatment for your foot or ankle pain depends on the underlying cause. When possible, Dr. Puziss takes a conservative approach and may recommend:
- Rest, ice, elevation, and compression
- Activity modification
- Splint, brace, or orthotics
- Physical therapy
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Joint injections
- Chiropractic care
- Acupuncture
- Naturopathic care
Dr. Puziss works closely with you to find the nonsurgical solution that provides the best relief from your foot or ankle pain. However, when conservative measures fail to provide an adequate amount of pain relief, he refers you to one of the best surgeons in the area for a consultation.
For a comprehensive and personalized approach to your foot or ankle pain, call Puziss Orthopedics today.
