Chronic ankle instability develops when repeated sprains or ligament injuries weaken the ankle over time. This condition often causes persistent pain, swelling, and a sense that the ankle might give way, especially on uneven ground. Ongoing instability can also lead to joint inflammation and early arthritis, if not properly treated. A podiatrist can evaluate the extent of damage through physical examination and imaging to determine the best care plan. Treatment may include balance training, strengthening exercises, and custom orthotics to improve stability and alignment. In more advanced cases, minimally invasive procedures may be needed to repair or tighten stretched ligaments. With early intervention and consistent rehabilitation, most patients can regain strength and confidence in their ankle. For lasting pain relief and better mobility, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist experienced in treating chronic ankle instability for expert advice and appropriate treatment.
Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Front Range Podiatry. Our doctors 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 tendonitis
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 Littleton, CO. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. It happens when the thick band of tissue that connects the heel to the toes becomes irritated or strained. This band, called the plantar fascia, helps support the arch of the foot. When it becomes inflamed, it can cause sharp pain that is often worse first thing in the morning, or after long periods of inactivity. Anyone can develop plantar fasciitis, although it is more common in people who spend a lot of time on their feet, wear unsupportive shoes, or have flat feet or very high arches. While the condition can be stubborn, it often improves with proper treatment. Rest, targeted stretching exercises, supportive footwear, and custom orthotics may ease symptoms, and a podiatrist can recommend additional therapies, if needed. If heel pain is interfering with your daily life, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists from Front Range Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
Excessive running
Having high arches in your feet
Other foot issues such as flat feet
Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
Being on your feet very often
There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.
Prevention
Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
Maintain a healthy weight
If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain
There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Littleton, CO. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Gout is a form of arthritis that often affects the feet, especially the big toe joint, where it can cause sudden and intense pain. Attacks of gout occur when uric acid builds up in the bloodstream and forms sharp crystals that settle in the joints of the toes, feet, or ankles. During such a flare, the affected area may become red, swollen, warm, and tender, making it difficult to walk or even tolerate the pressure of a shoe, sock, or bed sheet. Men are more likely to develop gout in middle age, while the risk in women increases after menopause, often due to changes in protective hormones. Factors that contribute to gout include decreased kidney clearance of uric acid, hereditary influences, and metabolic disorders. Repeated flares can lead to chronic joint damage and tophi, which are hard deposits of uric acid crystals surrounding the toes and ankles. A podiatrist can diagnose gout in the feet and provide treatment to protect joint health. If you are experiencing the symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for help in managing this painful condition.
Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Front Range Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.
Symptoms
Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility
Risk Factors
Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout
Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Littleton, CO. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
