Pain along the foot or ankle sometimes begins in a tendon rather than a joint or bone. Tendons are strong bands of tissue that connect muscles to bones and help move the foot. Tendinitis develops when a tendon becomes inflamed, usually after repeated strain or a sudden increase in activity. Running longer distances or spending more hours standing puts extra demands on these tissues. Shoes that lack proper support also contribute to strain. Although athletes often experience tendon problems, people with physically demanding jobs face similar risks. Foot structure and previous injuries also influence how much stress a tendon receives.
The location of discomfort depends on the affected tendon. Achilles tendinitis causes pain at the back of the heel or just above it. Other tendons cause discomfort along the inside or outside of the ankle. Tendons across the top of the foot also become irritated. Symptoms include aching, swelling, and tenderness. Stiffness sometimes feels worse after sleep or a period of sitting. Pain frequently increases while walking or pushing off the foot. Persistent discomfort should not be ignored because several conditions produce similar symptoms. A sudden pop with severe pain or difficulty bearing weight calls for prompt evaluation for a possible tendon tear.
A podiatrist identifies the source of pain by reviewing symptoms and examining the foot and ankle. The examination includes checking tender areas, testing movement, and assessing strength. Watching how a patient walks helps reveal uneven pressure or changes in foot mechanics. The podiatrist also asks about recent activity changes and previous injuries. X-rays help assess bones and rule out problems like fractures. Ultrasounds or an MRI scan provides a closer view of tendons when the diagnosis remains uncertain or a tear is suspected. These findings help distinguish tendinitis from other causes of foot and ankle pain and guide an appropriate treatment plan.
Treatment focuses on reducing tendon strain and protecting the affected area. A podiatrist might prescribe a walking boot or brace to limit painful movement. Custom orthotics help redistribute pressure when foot structure contributes to the problem. Recommendations about shoe fit address additional sources of irritation. Follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to monitor healing and adjust treatment as symptoms change. Persistent tendon damage sometimes requires surgery after other treatments fail. Recovery varies with the tendon involved and the severity of the injury. If you have symptoms of foot or ankle tendinitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Matthew McQuaid, DPM from Lake Mendocino 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:
- Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
- Ankle sprains
- Broken ankles
- Achilles tendinitis
- Achilles tendon rupture
- Stress fractures
- 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 Lakeport and Ukiah, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
