What Are Foot and Ankle Problems?

Foot and ankle problems encompass a wide range of conditions affecting bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles in the feet and ankles. They can result from injuries, overuse, deformities, arthritis, or chronic conditions. These issues can cause pain, limit mobility, and affect daily activities like walking, running, or standing.

Common Foot and Ankle Conditions

• Sprains and Ligament Injuries: Stretching or tearing of ligaments, often due to twisting or trauma

• Fractures: Broken bones in the foot or ankle from falls, accidents, or sports injuries

• Arthritis: Degeneration of joints causing pain, stiffness, and reduced movement

• Heel Pain / Plantar Fasciitis: Inflammation of the tissue under the foot causing heel pain

• Bunions and Toe Deformities: Misalignment of bones or joints causing pain and difficulty in wearing shoes

• Achilles Tendon Disorders: Tendonitis or ruptures affecting walking and activity

• Flatfoot / High Arches: Structural abnormalities affecting alignment and gait

Symptoms & Signs

• Pain in the foot or ankle, worsening with activity

• Swelling, redness, or warmth around the joint

• Difficulty standing, walking, or bearing weight

• Visible deformities, like bunions or uneven arches

• Instability or “giving way” of the ankle

Diagnosis

• Clinical Examination: Assessing pain, movement, and alignment

• X-rays: To detect fractures, bone deformities, or arthritis

• MRI/CT scans: For ligament, tendon, or soft tissue injuries

• Gait Analysis: For structural or functional problems in the foot and ankle

Treatment Options

• Medications: Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs for pain control

• Physiotherapy: Exercises to strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and restore function

• Bracing or Orthotics: Supports to relieve pressure, correct alignment, and improve stability

• Injections: Corticosteroid or PRP injections for inflammation or tendon disorders

• Surgery:

  • Fracture fixation and realignment

  • Ligament repair or reconstruction

  • Correction of deformities like bunions or flatfoot

  • Advanced joint replacement in severe arthritis cases