Everyone does activities every day that require the use of our feet. Whether you’re into running, playing sports, or simply walking your dog, your feet play a vital role in keeping you moving.
But what happens when a foot or ankle injury stops you in your tracks? This blog will help you understand the most common foot and ankle injuries and how foot and ankle specialists treat them.
Understanding the Anatomy of the Foot and Ankle
Understanding your foot and ankle anatomy can help you see why injuries happen. The foot has 26 bones, 33 joints, and over 100 muscles and connective tissues like tendons, and ligaments. Each part works together to support your body, absorb shock, and help you move.
The ankle connects your foot to your leg – it has a complex structure that includes the tibia, fibula, and talus bones. Ligaments hold these bones together, while tendons attach muscles to the bone.
When one part gets hurt, it can affect how you walk and move. Knowing what each part does can help you understand how injuries can occur.
Most Common Foot and Ankle Injuries
Here are some common foot and ankle injuries that podiatrists and orthopedic doctors diagnose and treat frequently:
Sprains
A sprain happens when you stretch or tear the ligaments that hold your ankle bones together. It is usually caused by twisting or rolling your ankle.
Symptoms of sprains include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. Sprains are common in sports and everyday activities.
Fractures
A fracture is a break in one of your foot or ankle bones. This injury can happen from a fall, a car accident, or another incident that results in a direct blow to the area.
Signs of a fracture include severe pain, swelling, bruising, and an inability to bear weight on the injured foot. If you think you have a fracture, see a foot and ankle specialist right away.
Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles tendonitis is when the tendon connecting your calf muscles to your heel becomes inflamed due to an injury. This can occur from overuse, especially in runners.
Symptoms include pain and stiffness in the back of your heel, especially in the morning. Resting and stretching can help, but severe cases may need medical attention.
Plantar Fasciitis
This condition affects the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot. It usually causes stabbing pain near the heel.
Plantar fasciitis is common in runners, overweight individuals, and those who wear shoes with poor support. The pain is often worse in the morning but improves with movement.
Treatments for Foot and Ankle Injuries
Common treatments for foot and ankle injuries include the following.
At-Home Remedies
Many foot and ankle injuries can be treated at home. The RICE method is a good place to start:
- Rest: Avoid activities that cause pain to give your injury time to heal.
- Ice: Apply ice packs for 20 minutes at a time to reduce swelling in your foot or ankle.
- Compression: Use an elastic bandage to wrap the injured foot or ankle to minimize swelling.
- Elevation: Keep your foot raised above heart level to help reduce swelling.
When to See a Foot and Ankle Specialist for an Injury
Sometimes, you might need more than just rest and ice for your foot or ankle problem. That’s when a foot and ankle specialist can help. This doctor focuses on treating injuries and conditions related to your feet and ankles.
Here’s a detailed look at what foot and ankle specialists can do for you.
Diagnosis
A foot and ankle specialist can examine your foot or ankle, conduct diagnostic testing, and figure out the underlying cause of your symptoms. This is a critical step in getting you a proper diagnosis and started on treatment.
Injections
One common treatment used by orthopedic doctors like foot and ankle specialists is injection therapy. These shots reduce pain or swelling in your foot or ankle. They are often used when you need relief from chronic pain.
Custom Orthotics
These are special inserts that you put inside your shoes to help with a host of gait- and support-related issues. They are made specifically for your feet to provide extra support and comfort, helping to correct many foot problems.
Surgery
Sometimes, if other treatments like therapy or injections don’t help, surgery may be necessary. Surgery involves an orthopedic doctor fixing the injured parts of your foot or ankle through a surgical procedure to help you heal properly.
Foot and Ankle Specialist in Port Charlotte, FL
If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort, don’t wait to seek help from a foot and ankle specialist. At the Advanced Orthopedic Center, our experienced foot and ankle specialist, Dr. Steven Anthony, is dedicated to providing comprehensive orthopedic care tailored to your needs.
From advanced diagnostics to personalized treatment plans, we are committed to helping you regain your active lifestyle.
To learn more about our foot and ankle services or schedule your appointment, call us at (941) 629-6262. We look forward to serving you!
Sources
https://www.hss.edu/conditions_common-conditions-foot-ankle-overview.asp
