Many individuals experience discomfort in the front of the ankle and the top of the foot, which can be attributed to various factors. Causes include plantar fasciitis, sprained ankles, foot or ankle arthritis, and prolonged wearing of ill-fitting shoes or high heels. Plantar fasciitis is characterized by pain on the bottom of the heel and arch, particularly noticeable after rest and during initial steps. The condition arises from the inflammation of the plantar fascia, a tissue band connecting the heel bone to the toes, and it can cause pain in the front of the ankle and top of the foot. A sprained ankle occurs when one or more ligaments in the ankle sustain injuries, leading to pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty in walking. Arthritis, which involves joint inflammation and pain, can affect the foot or ankle, resulting in the type of discomfort mentioned above. Moreover, wearing overly tight shoes or high heels can create a slanted position for the foot, exerting pressure on the ball of the foot and toes, and contributing to the pain experienced. If you are encountering any of these types of foot and ankle pain, it is suggested that you seek the expertise of a podiatrist who can help identify the underlying cause of the discomfort and provide appropriate treatment options for relief.
Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. Richard T. Bauer from Summit Foot & Ankle. 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
- Bursitis
- 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 Latham, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
