Ankle arthritis can significantly impact daily life, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling surrounding the ankle joint. Symptoms often worsen with activity and can limit mobility. Individuals may notice a reduced range of motion and find it difficult to walk or climb stairs without discomfort. Lifestyle modifications, such as maintaining a healthy weight and choosing appropriate footwear, can help manage symptoms. For more severe cases, surgical interventions like ankle fusion or ankle replacement may be help restore function and reduce pain. Podiatrists can provide a tailored treatment plan to manage symptoms effectively and enhance your overall mobility and comfort. If you are experiencing persistent ankle pain or suspect arthritis, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

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 Florida Ankle & Foot Institute. 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 tendinitis
• 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 offices located in Tavernier, Marathon, and Key West, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel pain is a common complaint that can significantly impact daily activities. Heel pain often stems from tarsal tunnel syndrome, where the tibial nerve gets squeezed within the tight passage along the inner ankle, known as the tarsal tunnel. This compression can occur due to injury, swelling, or structural issues like flat feet. Symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome include numbness or tingling in the heel, arch, or sole of the foot. This condition can be irritated by activities that put immense pressure on the foot, such as standing or walking for prolonged periods. Treatment options for tarsal tunnel syndrome include rest, ice therapy, and in severe cases, surgery to relieve pressure on the affected nerve. If this condition is left untreated, tarsal tunnel syndrome can worsen, leading to chronic pain and potentially affecting mobility. If you notice any signs of tarsal tunnel syndrome or heel pain, it is suggested to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment options. 

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Florida Ankle & Foot Institute. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Tavernier, Marathon, and Key West, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Heel pain, often caused by plantar fasciitis, is a common condition characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot. This condition typically results from overuse, wearing poor footwear, or excessive standing and walking, leading to micro-tears in the fascia that cause pain and stiffness, especially in the morning. Treatment for plantar fasciitis usually involves rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and wearing supportive footwear. However, incorporating regular stretching into the treatment regimen can significantly alleviate chronic cases. Stretching exercises target the plantar fascia, Achilles tendon, and calf muscles, helping to increase flexibility, reduce tension, and promote healing. Techniques such as calf stretches, towel stretches, and plantar fascia-specific stretches can be particularly effective in managing symptoms and preventing recurrence. If you have persistent or severe heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist, who can provide specialized care and further treatment options.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with one of our podiatrists from Florida Ankle & Foot Institute. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

• Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
• Similar to the previous one, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
• Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
• Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising and ice and rest the foot. It is advised to then see a podiatrist for help.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Tavernier, Marathon, and Key West, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.