Our Services / Foot and Ankle Pain

What causes foot and ankle pain?

A number of bones, muscles, ligaments, tendons, and nerves make up the foot and ankles, making it one of the most complex structures in the body. Many injuries and degenerative conditions can permanently damage the foot and ankle, including:

Plantar fasciitis

The plantar fascia is a long band of tissue that joins the toes and heel. This thick tissue absorbs shock and supports the arch of the foot. Plantar fasciitis stems from inflammation in this fibrous type of tissue.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a condition that affects the cartilage around the joints. As the cartilage breaks down, pain and stiffness may develop.

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the lining inside the joints.

Gout

Gout is a form of arthritis in which uric acid crystals deposit into the joints. While gout can affect many different joints, it’s most common in the base of the big toe.

Ankle sprains

Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments on the outside of the joint stretch rapidly, typically from force.

Bunions

A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe. Often the result of narrow-fitting shoes, bunions cause the big toe to push toward the other four.

Hammertoes

A hammertoe results from an imbalance between the muscles and ligaments in your toe. It causes the affected toe to bend, leaving it vulnerable to injury. Hammertoes commonly affect the second and third toes.

How are foot and ankle injuries diagnosed?

The team at Coastal Ortho may be able to diagnose a foot and ankle injury through a visual exam. Bunions and hammertoes are typically visible right away. However, further testing can help determine the severity of your condition and detect any further damage. 

Along with a medical history review and physical exam, your orthopedic specialist may order imaging scans, such as X-rays, computed tomography (CT), ultrasounds, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

What are the treatments for foot and ankle injuries?

Depending on the type of injury you have and the extent of damage to your foot and ankle, the team at Coastal Ortho may recommend:

• Physical therapy
• Joint fluid injections
• Custom-made orthotics
• Immobilization (bracing, casting, splinting)
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections
• Bunion surgery
• Orthopedic surgery

For an individualized approach to foot and ankle treatment, call Coastal Ortho or schedule an appointment online today.