Many are curious about the treatments that are available to help with the discomfort associated with various foot and ankle conditions. We’ll explore both non-surgical and surgical procedures that can help manage these issues. With this information, you’ll be better equipped to make informed decisions about your orthopedic health.
Are you looking for expert orthopedic care in Zanesville, Ohio? Trust Orthopaedic Associates of Zanesville for compassionate, personalized treatment tailored to your needs. Feel free to contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a pain-free, active lifestyle.
Foot and ankle pain can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life. It may arise from various causes, such as injuries, overuse, arthritis, or structural abnormalities. This discomfort can manifest as sharp or dull pain, swelling, stiffness, or difficulty bearing weight.
Whether it stems from conditions like plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, or ankle arthritis, seeking timely medical attention is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective management. Treatment approaches may include rest, ice, physical therapy, medications, orthotics, or, in severe cases, surgical intervention. Proper management not only alleviates pain but also prevents further complications, facilitating a return to pain-free movement and function.
Some common foot and ankle problems include the following:
Stress fractures refer to tiny cracks in bones caused by repetitive stress or overuse. They are usually overuse injuries caused by overtraining, sudden increase in activity level, improper footwear, or bone weakness. If you have a stress fracture, you will likely feel pain during activity that subsides with rest, localized tenderness, and swelling.
The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body. It connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Achilles tendon injuries include tendinitis, or they can rupture and tear. Achilles tendinitis occurs through overuse or degeneration over time. Achilles ruptures tend to occur when you move suddenly.
An Achilles injury or rupture will cause pain, swelling, weakness, or difficulty moving the foot or ankle. If the Achilles Tendon ruptures, you may hear an audible snap or pop when the injury occurs.
The Lisfranc joint complex is made up of the bones of the midfoot that are held together by strong ligaments. The bones of the midfoot can break, and the ligaments can strain or tear in low-energy trauma such as a twist or fall. Lisfranc injuries will cause pain, swelling, and bruising on the top and bottom of the injured foot.
Fractures occurring in the toes or bones of the forefoot are quite common. They can occur through trauma or injury, such as a crushing injury. Toe and forefoot fractures will make it difficult for you to walk while weight-bearing. You will also see localized bruising.
At Orthopaedic Associates of Zanesville, we provide several procedures to treat foot or ankle pain. These include the following:
Stress fractures can usually be treated with non-surgical treatments, including rest, immobilization with a cast or boot, and modified activity. In some cases, foot or ankle surgery is necessary. The bones may need internal fixation using pins, screws, or plates.
Surgery reduces the risk of complications and restores function and mobility in the foot or ankle. After a period of recovery, you will experience less foot and heel pain.
Surgical intervention to repair the torn or ruptured tendon often involves suturing the tendon back together or grafting other tendons onto the tendon to add strength. Achilles tendon repair restores strength and stability to the ankle, improves function, and reduces the risk of re-rupture.
If the Lisfranc injury does not involve a fracture dislocation or ligament tears, then non-surgical treatment such as a cast or boot will be used while the injury recovers. You may also take anti-inflammatory medications to relieve swelling and provide pain relief. If the bones become displaced, surgical options such as open reduction internal fixation or midfoot fusion may be used to realign the bones of the joint.
Treatment restores stability and alignment to the midfoot, relieves foot pain, and lowers the risk of complications such as arthritis.
Treatment for a toe or forefoot fracture will depend on the severity of the fracture. Treatment may include rest, immobilization with a splint or cast, pain management, and possibly surgical intervention for complex fractures.
Treatment will relieve pain and help with proper healing of the bones, which lowers the risk of deformity or long-term complications. After your recovery, your function and mobility should be restored.
Medically reviewed by Jordan R. Bonier, DO, MS
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