Ankle Pain

The ankle is the region that joins the foot and leg. It consists of three joints that allow the foot to move. Pain in the ankle is typically the result of injury or inflammation from a wide variety of conditions, such as strains, sprains, fractures, or arthritis. Symptoms that often co-occur with ankle pain include swelling, bruising, numbness, tingling, stiffness, joint instability, and difficulty walking. 

The underlying cause of your ankle pain can be diagnosed by a chiropodist. A diagnostic visit to this specialist typically involves providing a medical history, describing your ankle pain, and undergoing a physical examination. In some cases, the chiropodist may order imaging studies, such as an X-ray or ultrasound, to rule out or confirm a diagnosis. 

The right treatment for your ankle pain will depend on the underlying cause of the pain. In many cases, your chiropodist may recommend that you follow the R.I.C.E. acronym: resting, icing, compressing, and elevating the affected ankle. Taking these actions generally decreases swelling and inflammation, reduces pain, and promotes healing. Taking over-the-counter, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may also help with pain management. The chiropodist may also prescribe custom orthotics, immobilize the affected ankle, or recommend activity and footwear modifications. In cases of more severe injuries, surgical treatment may be necessary. 

If you are experiencing ankle pain, it is recommended that you seek the care of a chiropodist. 

Uncovering Reasons for Sudden Ankle Pain

Experiencing sudden ankle pain without an apparent injury can be perplexing and concerning. Several non-traumatic factors can trigger this discomfort. Overuse and strain due to prolonged standing, excessive walking, or sudden increase in physical activity can strain the ankle ligaments and muscles, resulting in pain. Arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, can cause sudden and sharp pain due to inflammation and deterioration of the ankle joint. Wearing improper footwear or high heels for an extended period can strain the ankle and lead to acute pain. Flat feet or overpronation can also cause unexpected pain as it alters the alignment and functioning of the foot, impacting the ankles. Circulatory issues such as blood clots or vascular diseases can manifest as sharp, sudden ankle pain, warranting immediate medical attention. If you are experiencing ankle pain, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist who can provide you with treatment options.

Ankle pain is a common symptom of many lower limb problems. If you are experiencing ankle pain, please consult with one of the specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

The ankle is composed of a number of muscles, bones, tendons, and ligaments. There are many conditions which may cause ankle pain. 

Causes

  • Ankle strains or sprains

  • Achilles tendon injuries

  • Fractures

  • Bursitis

  • Arthritis

  • Gout

  • Tarsal tunnel syndrome

Symptoms

If you have ankle pain, you may also experience a variety of other symptoms depending on the underlying cause of the pain. Some of these symptoms may include ankle swelling, bruising, redness, numbness or tingling, instability, and difficulty walking.

Diagnosis

The underlying cause of ankle pain can be diagnosed by a chiropodist. Diagnoses are typically made based on your medical history, a physical examination of the affected ankle, and imaging studies such as X-rays. 

Treatment

Treatment for your ankle pain will depend on its underlying cause. Often, the chiropodist will recommend that you rest the affected ankle. You might also need to ice, compress, and elevate the ankle, wear an orthotic device, or take medications to reduce pain and inflammation. 

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

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Biomechanics of the Feet

Foot biomechanics is an area of foot care that examines the structure, function, and motion of the feet. When these factors are carefully examined, they can provide more information about potential causes of foot and ankle pain and help your chiropodist find the best treatments for the unique needs of your feet. 

The study of biomechanics dates back to ancient times but became more well known in modern history when findings claimed that changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and foot can lead to positive clinical outcomes when treating various foot and ankle conditions. 

The advent of modern technology, such as computer analysis, has continued to expand on these discoveries and helps medical professionals make informed decisions about patient care. Understanding the biomechanics of the feet can help in the diagnosis of various conditions and prescribing targeted treatments that reduce or eliminate pain. For example, a chiropodist can analyze your gait, or walking pattern, and determine if there are any abnormalities that can be treated with custom orthotics or footwear modifications.

How the Muscles in the Feet Work Together

Our feet are remarkable structures composed of various muscles that work in perfect harmony to support our bodies and facilitate movement. The two primary types of muscles found in the feet are known as extrinsic and intrinsic. Intrinsic muscles are those within the foot itself. They are responsible for fine tuning movements and controlling the arches, toes, and alignment. These muscles help maintain balance and provide stability during activities such as walking or standing. They play an important role in distributing body weight evenly across the foot. Conversely, extrinsic muscles originate in the lower leg and extend into the foot. They are responsible for more powerful movements, such as flexing, pointing, and rotating the foot. These muscles help us generate force for activities like running, jumping, or dancing. The intricate interplay between these muscle groups is what enables our feet to carry out a wide range of activities efficiently. Whether you are walking, running, or simply balancing, it is the coordinated effort of these muscles that keeps you steady and on the move. Understanding their roles and maintaining foot health is vital for an active and pain-free lifestyle. If you would like to learn more about the muscles in the feet, it is suggested that you speak with a chiropodist who can provide you with useful information.

The biomechanics of your feet play an important role in your foot health. To learn more, please consult with one of the specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. Our chiropodists can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Foot biomechanics refers to the study of the structure, function, and motion of the feet. The feet and ankles are a complex system consisting of many bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, and tendons that work together to move your feet. Understanding the unique biomechanics of your own feet can help you and your chiropodist make informed decisions about your foot health care. This includes decisions about the best preventive measures to avoid foot pain, the best treatment options for various foot problems, and finding the best shoes for your feet. 

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

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Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks its own otherwise healthy joint lining. This condition can affect any of the 33 joints of the feet, as well as the ankle joints. RA symptoms include joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and warmth. It may become difficult to stand, walk, or exercise due to joint pain. RA can also affect the biomechanics of the feet. When the structure of the foot changes, this can affect one’s gait or walking pattern. Foot deformities, such as bunions and hammertoes, also become more likely. RA’s negative effects on mobility could impact one’s overall quality of life. 

Although there is no cure for RA, your chiropodist can help you manage symptoms and maintain the health of your feet and your mobility. They may recommend conservative treatments such as resting and icing the feet and taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications to manage pain. Orthotic inserts and braces can help reduce pain and give the feet structure and support. In more severe cases, corticosteroid injections can be used to relieve pain as well. 

Surgical treatments for joint pain are another possible option for those with RA, particularly if the conservative treatment methods described above prove ineffective. Joint fusion surgery or joint replacement surgery may help. Deformities like bunions and hammertoes can be surgically corrected as well. 

To learn more about living with RA, please consult with a chiropodist near you. 

How Rheumatoid Arthritis Affects the Feet

Rheumatoid arthritis, abbreviated RA, is an autoimmune disorder that can have debilitating effects on various joints, including the feet. This chronic condition occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the synovium, the lining of the membranes surrounding the joints, leading to inflammation, pain, and joint damage. When it comes to the feet, RA can manifest in several ways. One common symptom is joint stiffness, particularly in the morning, making it challenging to move the toes and ankles comfortably. Painful and swollen joints, often in the toes and forefoot, are another sign. As RA progresses, it can lead to the development of bunions, hammertoes, and other deformities in the foot's structure. It can also damage the ligaments and tendons that support the feet, leading to instability and difficulty walking. While there is no cure for RA, early diagnosis and comprehensive management can help mitigate its effect on the feet and improve the overall quality of life. A combination of medications, lifestyle modifications, and orthotic devices can help to offer relief and support to keep individuals with RA on their feet and moving comfortably. If you have rheumatoid arthritis, it is suggested that you are under the care of a chiropodist who can help you to manage this condition.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks its own otherwise healthy joint lining or synovium. While RA can affect any joint in the body, it often affects the small joints of the feet and the ankle joint. If you’re dealing with RA in your lower limbs, please consult with one of the specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. Our chiropodists can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Symptoms of RA primarily affect the joints of the feet and may include:

  • Pain

  • Swelling

  • Stiffness 

  • Redness

  • Warmth

  • Difficulty walking

  • Gait changes

  • Bunions

  • Hammertoes 

Treatment

While there is no cure for RA, your chiropodist can help you manage the health of your feet and maintain your mobility while living with this condition. Possible treatments include wearing orthotics, doing foot and ankle exercises, resting the feet, taking anti-inflammatory medications, getting steroid injections, and wearing braces for foot and ankle pain. In advanced cases of RA, joint replacement surgery may be helpful for mobility. Bunions, hammertoes, and other deformities can be corrected with surgery as well. 

If you have RA, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Heel Pain

Heel pain can range in severity from mild and annoying to severe and debilitating. Usually caused by an injury, heel pain can become chronic if it's left untreated. There are many different types of injuries that can bring about heel pain. When describing your pain, it is important to note the location and type of pain, as well as when the pain started and what activities make it better or worse. 

Perhaps the most common cause of heel pain is plantar fasciitis, a condition in which the plantar fascia, a ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot, becomes inflamed due to repetitive overuse or trauma. This condition causes stabbing pain in the bottom of the heel. The pain is usually at its worst when you take your first few steps after a period of rest, like when you first get up in the morning. Plantar fasciitis is also sometimes accompanied by bone spurs, calcium deposits on the heel bone that can cause sharp pain that gradually evolves into a dull ache. Other possible causes of heel pain include Achilles tendonitis, heel fractures, bursitis, tarsal tunnel syndrome, and Sever’s disease. 

Although treatment for heel pain depends on the underlying cause, most treatments involve resting, icing, and elevating the affected foot. Your chiropodist will also typically suggest that you wear more comfortable, supportive shoes or orthotics to help your heel heal. Over-the-counter pain medications are usually sufficient to manage heel pain. For more information about heel pain, please consult with a chiropodist.

Exploring the Need for Heel Cups

Heel pain can affect your daily activities and overall well-being. If you are constantly dealing with heel discomfort, heel cups might be a solution. These small, supportive shoe inserts can work wonders when it comes to alleviating heel pain. Heel cups are designed to provide cushioning and support to the heels and are particularly beneficial for conditions like plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis. They redistribute the pressure on your heels and reduce the strain on the affected areas. This, in turn, helps to decrease inflammation and discomfort. Additionally, heel cups help maintain proper foot alignment. By providing arch support, they can correct pronation problems, which are common causes of heel pain. The improved alignment helps prevent further stress on the heels and aids in the natural healing process. If you are experiencing heel discomfort, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a chiropodist who can help you find out if heel cups are the answer for you.

Heel pain is a common problem that can be caused by a variety of injuries, medical conditions, and other factors. If you suffer from heel pain, please consult with one of the specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. Our chiropodists can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

When it comes to heel pain, the exact location and type of pain are important to note. Some of the conditions that may cause heel pain include: 

  • Plantar fasciitis - An inflammation of the ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot; it causes a stabbing pain under the heel that is at its worst when taking your first few steps after a long rest and while standing on your tiptoes or climbing stairs

  • Achilles tendonitis - An inflammation of the tendon in the back of the calf; it causes pain in the back of the heel that is at its worst after resting, as well as ankle and calf stiffness, swelling, and tenderness 

  • Bone spurs - Bony lumps on the back of the heel bones that cause sharp pain upon first standing up; the pain becomes dull and achy over time 

  • Heel fractures - A break or crack in the heel bone that causes pain, swelling, and difficulty walking

  • Retrocalcaneal bursitis - Swelling of the small, fluid-filled sac at the back of the heel bone; it causes pain, swelling, redness, and warmth in the back of the heel

  • Tarsal tunnel syndrome - Compression of the posterior tibial nerve which causes a pins and needles sensation in the heel, foot, and calf 

Your chiropodist will be able to diagnose the underlying cause of your pain and prescribe the right treatments for you. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs. 

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Wounds That Don't Heal Need to Be Checked

Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe

Finding the right shoes to run in can be a headache. With so many options on the market, it can be difficult to determine exactly the right type of running shoes for you. This is where your chiropodist can help. In addition to taking into consideration the type of running you will be doing, it’s also very important to buy running shoes that cater to the individual needs of your feet. 

There are many individual foot differences that can have a bearing on which types of running shoes to buy. Your gait, or walking pattern, may require certain specifications to ensure the safest and efficient running possible. A chiropodist can perform a gait analysis to determine your needs. Generally, people’s gaits can be normal, overpronated, or underpronated. Having an overpronated gait means that the foot rolls too far inwards while you walk or run. This can be mitigated by choosing stability running shoes. Having an underpronated gait means that the foot rolls too far outwards while walking or running. This can be helped by choosing shoes with neutral cushioning. 

In general, it’s suggested that you shop for shoes in person in the late afternoon or evening. Shopping in person will allow you to try on and test out the shoes. You would also be able to get assistance from a store associate, who could measure your feet and provide recommendations. Shopping later in the day is suggested because your feet naturally swell throughout the day and are at their largest in the late afternoon and early evening. Your feet also naturally swell while you run. By fitting your feet when they are at their largest, you can ensure that they will fit properly throughout the day. 

For more information about how to find the best running shoes for you, please consult with a chiropodist.

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