Orthopedic Surgery for Foot and Ankle Pain

The foot and ankle are two of the most important parts of our bodies, providing versatility and motion as we go about our daily tasks. Most people don’t think about their feet or ankles too often, but when one of these body parts begins to hurt, it’s hard to think about anything else.

Foot and ankle pain impacts millions of patients each year and can range from a slight annoyance to an unbearable affliction.

Types of Foot and Ankle Pain

Not all foot and ankle pain is created equally. Pain in these areas can result from injuries, genetic conditions, diseases, or other factors.

Pain in the heel could be caused by conditions like heel spurs. If the pain is located in the ball of the foot, a condition called metatarsalgia may be to blame. Pain in the toes could be caused by gout. If you’re experiencing pain all throughout the foot and ankle, your doctor may look for signs of neuropathy, rheumatoid arthritis, or osteoarthritis.

Ankle pain can be caused by several factors as well. Fractures or sprains are quite common but are, thankfully, easily treated. Ankle pain may also be the result of bursitis or one of several various infections.

Some common foot and ankle issues include:

• Tendonitis

• A fracture and/or sprain

• Bone spurs

• Bunions

• Morton’s neuroma

• Planta fasciitis

• Tarsal tunnel syndrome

• Diabetic foot ulcers

• Hammertoes

What are the Symptoms of Foot and Ankle Pain?

The most obvious symptom of a foot or ankle issue is, predictably, pain. Patients may find themselves unable to walk or support their weight in some severe cases. A limited range of motion may also occur.

Some patients may experience tenderness or swelling in the foot or ankle in question. Redness or bruising may also result, particularly if your pain is the result of an injury.

How is Foot and Ankle Pain Treated?

In the majority of cases, foot and ankle pain can be treated without surgery. Patients can take measures to reduce their pain at home. Resting the injured area, applying ice in regular 20-minute intervals, and taking over-the-counter pain medications can all help in relieving your discomfort.

If your foot or ankle pain requires the assistance of a doctor, they will first approach the issue with nonsurgical treatment methods. Your physician may prescribe medications or refer you to physical therapy. Some patients benefit from localized cortisone injections for pain relief.

In some severe cases when nonsurgical methods don’t bring the desired results, joint surgery may be necessary. Luckily, foot and ankle surgeries are often performed on an outpatient basis and are minimally invasive, meaning that patients experience short recovery times and quick results.

To learn more about foot and ankle pain treatment in the Fort Myers area, contact the Institute for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine.

References:

* http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/fact/thr_report.cfm?Thread_ID=100&topcategory=Foot - January 2006

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