Ankle pain can result from various causes, with tripping and muscle weakness being significant contributors. Tripping or rolling the ankle during activities like walking or running can lead to sprains or strains, causing pain, swelling, and bruising surrounding the ankle joint. Another key cause of ankle pain is muscle weakness, which can occur from lack of exercise or injury. Weak ankle muscles make it harder to stabilize the joint, increasing the risk of twisting or turning the ankle during daily movements. This instability can also lead to recurring ankle injuries. Symptoms of ankle pain often include localized tenderness, difficulty walking, stiffness, and swelling. If you have ankle pain for any reason, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer appropriate treatment solutions.
Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Thomas Bobrowski, DPM from InStride Crystal Coast Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.
Causes
The most common causes of ankle pain include:
Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
Ankle sprains
Broken ankles
Achilles tendinitis
Achilles tendon rupture
Stress fractures
Tarsal tunnel syndrome
Plantar fasciitis
Symptoms
Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.
Diagnosis
Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in New Bern, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!
Heel pain is common among active children, especially those who engage in sports that involve running and jumping. One frequent cause of heel pain in young athletes is termed Sever’s disease, a condition that typically affects children between 8 and 14 years old. This condition arises when the growth area where the Achilles tendon connects to the heel bone becomes inflamed due to the rapid growth of bones and soft tissues during puberty. Signs of Sever’s disease include pain in one or both heels, especially during or after physical activity, limping, and a tendency to walk on tiptoe. Various factors, such as flat foot posture, increased weight, and changes in footwear, may contribute to the pain. A podiatrist can assess and help manage symptoms by recommending specific footwear, using orthotics if necessary, and educating on activity modification. This approach helps children stay active while minimizing heel pain. If your active child complains of heel pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.
Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Thomas Bobrowski, DPM from InStride Crystal Coast Podiatry. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.
Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.
Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.
Symptoms
Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.
Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in New Bern, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
Flat feet, or fallen arches, occur when the natural arch in the foot is absent, leading to the entire sole making contact with the ground. While flat feet can be present from childhood, many people develop the condition later in life, known as adult-acquired flat feet. Causes include weakened or torn tendons, particularly the posterior tibial tendon, which supports the arch. Among other factors are arthritis, which can affect joint alignment, and injuries like bone fractures or ligament sprains that compromise foot structure. Obesity, diabetes, and even pregnancy can also increase the risk of developing flat feet by placing extra strain on the arches. Symptoms of adult flat feet often include foot, knee, or lower back pain, especially after extended standing or physical activity. Treatment from a podiatrist might involve custom orthotics, supportive footwear, or exercises to strengthen foot muscles. If you have flat feet that are problematic, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.
Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.
Conditions & Problems:
Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.
Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.
Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.
Symptoms
Pain around the heel or arch area
Trouble standing on the tip toe
Swelling around the inside of the ankle
Flat look to one or both feet
Having your shoes feel uneven when worn
Treatment
If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in New Bern, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
