Foot & Ankle Pain 

Why am I experiencing foot and ankle pain?

Your feet and your ankles are complex mechanical structures that must work together in harmony in order to function at their optimal level. The ankle joint consists of three bones that all must interact with one another correctly, along with the various connective tissues that hold the assembly of the joint together.

The foot is even more complex, containing approximately two dozen bones, 30 joints, and over 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Because there are many complicated structures that make up your feet and ankles, pain in those areas is a very common affliction. An injury to your foot or ankle can result in pain ranging from mild to severe. Often foot injuries cause you to avoid putting weight down on your foot, causing physical limitations to your daily life.

What condition is causing my foot and ankle pain?

Foot and ankle pain can occur suddenly due to an acute injury, or it can develop over time in relation to a chronic, underlying condition. There are several common causes of foot pain and ankle pain, including:

• Strains and sprains. A strain occurs when a muscle or tendon is stretched, while a sprain occurs when a ligament is stretched too far or torn.
• Arthritis. Arthritis is a common inflammatory condition that affects the joints and results in pain; the most common types include osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Both types of arthritis can greatly impact the foot and ankle joints.
• Tendinitis. Tendinitis occurs from excessive overuse of the tendons, causing them to become inflamed for a long time.
• Bursitis. Bursitis occurs when the tendons rub against the “bursae” or anti-friction sacs, causing them to become irritated and uncomfortable.
• Fractures. A fracture occurs from excessive force or trauma to the bone, causing it to crack or break entirely. A fracture to the foot or ankle often requires 6-8 weeks of immobilization to ensure proper healing.
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome. Tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs when the posterior tibial nerve becomes pinched and inflamed. The Tarsal Tunnel runs on the inside of your ankle and down into your foot.
• Fallen arches. Your foot contains several tendons that work together to form your arch. When the tendons function together properly, your foot will form a proper arch. However, when the tendons do not work togehter properly, your foot will form a very small arch, or no arch at all. This is referred to as “fallen arch” or “flat foot” and can cause pain or discomfort with time.
• Plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation in the connective tissue on the bottom of your foot. This can occur from aggravated overuse, such as constant standing, improper posture, or footwear that lacks proper arch support.