Ankle pain can be a symptom of various types of arthritis, each with distinct characteristics and causes. Osteoarthritis, often associated with aging, occurs when the protective cartilage cushioning the ends of the bones wears down over time. This leads to pain and stiffness in the ankle. Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, including those in the ankle. Inflammation, swelling, and pain in the ankles are common symptoms. Gout, another form of arthritis, is caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. This condition can lead to sudden, severe attacks of pain and redness in the ankle. There are different treatment strategies for each type of arthritis, including medication and lifestyle changes. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to relieve symptoms and improve joint function. A podiatrist, or foot doctor, can help diagnose the specific type of arthritis causing ankle pain through clinical evaluation and imaging tests. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan.
Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. Kevin F. Gallagher from Gallagher Podiatry. Our doctor 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:
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 one of our offices located in McMurray and Hickory, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Foot and ankle problems are prevalent among young athletes, often stemming from the intense physical demands and repetitive movements associated with sports participation. These conditions can range from minor injuries to more severe issues, impacting performance and overall well-being. Common foot and ankle problems in young athletes include sprains, strains, stress fractures, Achilles tendonitis, and plantar fasciitis. These injuries may result from overuse, improper training techniques, inadequate footwear, or biomechanical abnormalities. Ignoring or neglecting such issues can lead to chronic pain, decreased mobility, and prolonged recovery times, potentially hindering athletic pursuits and future opportunities. Therefore, early recognition, proper diagnosis, and prompt intervention are essential in managing foot and ankle problems in young athletes. Implementing preventive measures such as proper warm-up and stretching routines, gradual training progression, and wearing supportive footwear can help reduce the risk of injury and promote long-term musculoskeletal health. If your child is involved in sports and has endured a foot or ankle injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.
Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Dr. Kevin F. Gallagher from Gallagher Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Common Injuries
The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:
Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.
Treatment
Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in McMurray and Hickory, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.
