Five Common Causes of Foot and Ankle Pain
Foot or ankle pain can make work, exercise and everyday walking difficult. The location of the pain, how it started and what makes it worse help guide an evaluation. A symptom alone does not establish a diagnosis.
Injuries and overuse
A sprain stretches or tears ligaments. A tendon strain or other tendon problem can produce pain nearby, and a fracture can sometimes be mistaken for a sprain. Being able to walk does not rule out a broken bone.
Stress fractures can develop from repeated loading rather than a single accident. The affected bone and the stability of the injury determine whether protection, a boot, limited weight bearing or surgery is appropriate.
Heel pain and changes in the arch
Plantar fasciitis often causes pain under the heel with the first steps after sleep or sitting. Pain behind the heel may involve the Achilles tendon. An examination helps distinguish these from other causes.
Flat feet are not always painful or in need of treatment. A changing arch, new stiffness or pain along the inner ankle can indicate a problem with the supporting tendons, ligaments or joints.
Arthritis and the next step
Arthritis may cause pain, swelling and stiffness in the ankle or smaller foot joints. It can follow a previous injury or occur with other joint disease. Treatment often begins with measures to reduce symptoms and support daily function.
Dr. Timothy J. Miller evaluates common and complex foot and ankle concerns in Houston and Spring. A visit considers your history, examination and appropriate imaging so the plan fits the cause of your pain. A new wound with infection, a cold or discolored foot, or a major injury needs prompt medical attention.
Foot or ankle pain can make work, exercise and everyday walking difficult. The location of the pain, how it started and what makes it worse help guide an evaluation. A symptom alone does not establish a diagnosis.
Injuries and overuse
A sprain stretches or tears ligaments. A tendon strain or other tendon problem can produce pain nearby, and a fracture can sometimes be mistaken for a sprain. Being able to walk does not rule out a broken bone.
Stress fractures can develop from repeated loading rather than a single accident. The affected bone and the stability of the injury determine whether protection, a boot, limited weight bearing or surgery is appropriate.
Heel pain and changes in the arch
Plantar fasciitis often causes pain under the heel with the first steps after sleep or sitting. Pain behind the heel may involve the Achilles tendon. An examination helps distinguish these from other causes.
Flat feet are not always painful or in need of treatment. A changing arch, new stiffness or pain along the inner ankle can indicate a problem with the supporting tendons, ligaments or joints.
Arthritis and the next step
Arthritis may cause pain, swelling and stiffness in the ankle or smaller foot joints. It can follow a previous injury or occur with other joint disease. Treatment often begins with measures to reduce symptoms and support daily function.
Dr. Timothy J. Miller evaluates common and complex foot and ankle concerns in Houston and Spring. A visit considers your history, examination and appropriate imaging so the plan fits the cause of your pain. A new wound with infection, a cold or discolored foot, or a major injury needs prompt medical attention.