Foot & Ankle Pain

By understanding the many possible causes and exploring personalized treatment options, you can restore comfort, regain movement, and live without the restrictions caused by ongoing pain.

Ankle Sprains & Fractures

Injuries to the foot or ankle—whether from sports, work, or everyday activities—often raise the question of whether medical attention is needed. Sprains involve stretched or torn ligaments, while fractures are breaks in the bone. Proper evaluation and treatment are important to ensure correct healing and prevent long-term complications.

Arthritis of the Foot & Ankle

Like all joints, the foot and ankle rely on smooth cartilage to allow effortless movement. When this cartilage wears down due to injury, aging, or other conditions, arthritis can develop. Since cartilage does not repair itself, the body may produce extra bone, leading to joint irregularities or bone spurs. Symptoms commonly include aching pain during movement, stiffness, and swelling that may gradually worsen.

Bunions

A bunion is a bony prominence that forms at the base of the big toe, often causing the toe to shift toward the others. This condition may result from tight or narrow footwear, structural abnormalities, or arthritis. Typical signs include a visible bump, redness, swelling, and discomfort. Non-surgical treatments focus on reducing pain and inflammation, while surgery may be considered to correct alignment if symptoms persist.

Hammer Toe

Hammer toe is a deformity where one of the smaller toes bends at the middle joint, giving it a curled appearance. It develops due to imbalances in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally keep the toe straight. Early-stage (flexible) cases can often be managed conservatively, while more advanced (rigid) cases may require surgical correction.

Plantar Fasciitis

This common condition causes pain in the heel due to inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that supports the arch of the foot. Repetitive stress or excessive strain can lead to small tears, resulting in sharp heel pain—especially noticeable in the morning or after prolonged standing. Treatment may include medications, injections, and, in more severe cases, surgical intervention.

Neuroma

A neuroma is a thickening of nerve tissue, often occurring between the toes, and is sometimes described as a "pinched nerve." It can cause burning pain, tingling, numbness, or the sensation of having a small object inside the shoe. Conservative treatments such as padding, taping, or orthotics can help, while surgery may be needed if symptoms do not improve.

Stress Fracture

Stress fractures are small cracks in the bones caused by repetitive force or overuse. The weight-bearing bones of the foot and ankle are particularly susceptible due to the constant impact from activities like walking, running, or jumping. Pain typically worsens with activity and improves with rest. Early diagnosis and proper management are key to preventing more serious injury.

Tendon Tears & Ruptures

Peroneal Tendon Injuries

These tendons run along the outer ankle and help stabilize the foot. They are commonly affected by overuse or repetitive motion, especially in athletic or physically demanding activities.

Achilles Tendon Injury

The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel and is the largest tendon in the body. Overstretching can lead to partial or complete tears, often caused by sudden movements like jumping or pivoting. Symptoms include pain at the back of the ankle, swelling, difficulty walking, and sometimes a popping sound at the moment of injury.