Ankle Conditions
Ankle Pain
Ankle pain might arise from various factors such as injuries, arthritis, or overuse. This discomfort and pain can hinder mobility and affect daily life. Identifying the root cause is essential to be able to implement a personalised targetted treatment plan.
Ankle Sprain
Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries affecting the lower extremities, and they can happen to anyone, from athletes to those going about their daily activities. Understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms, and seeking professional podiatry care are essential for effective management and recovery.
Cause
Symptoms
Treatment
Cause
Ankle sprains typically occur when the ankle is forced beyond its normal range of motion, causing the ligaments that support the joint to stretch or tear. This can happen during sudden movements, such as rolling the ankle while walking on uneven terrain or participating in sports that involve quick changes in direction.
Symptoms
The most common symptoms of an ankle sprain include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot. The severity of the sprain can range from mild, with minimal discomfort and swelling, to severe, involving significant pain and instability.
Treatment
Prompt and appropriate care from us ensures a faster and more complete recovery, reducing the risk of chronic ankle instability and complications. If you had an ankle sprain or you tried a few treatments without success, book online, we will be able to help you out.
High Ankle Sprain
High ankle sprains, also known as syndesmotic ankle sprains, are a common injury seen in podiatry practices. Unlike typical lateral ankle sprains, which affect the ligaments on the outer side of the ankle, high ankle sprains involve damage to the syndesmotic ligaments that connect the tibia and fibula bones in the lower leg. These ligaments play a crucial role in stabilizing the ankle joint, and when injured, they can lead to significant pain, swelling, and functional impairment.
Cause
Treatment
Cause
High ankle sprains often occur as a result of forceful twisting or hyperextension of the ankle, commonly seen in activities like sports, particularly those that involve rapid changes in direction or jumping. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough physical examination, imaging studies like X-rays or MRIs, and assessment of the ankle’s stability.
Treatment
Management of high ankle sprains in podiatry involves a combination of conservative and, in some cases, surgical referrals. Conservative treatment includes rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), along with immobilization in a cast or brace to promote healing. Physiotherapy is essential for restoring strength and range of motion and we are always happy to work with your physiotherapist once we are certain that your condition will be responsive.
Talar Dome Injuries
Talar dome lesions are a relatively common concern in podiatry, particularly among individuals who have experienced ankle injuries or have conditions that affect the ankle joint. These lesions involve damage to the smooth, cartilage-covered surface of the talus bone, which is a key component of the ankle joint. Talar dome lesions can result from traumatic injuries, repetitive stress, or degenerative changes over time. They often lead to debilitating symptoms such as pain, and limited range of motion.
Cause
Treatment
Cause
Talar dome lesions can result from traumatic injuries, repetitive stress, or degenerative changes over time. They often lead to debilitating symptoms such as pain, and limited range of motion.
Treatment
As a well trained podiatrist, I play a crucial role in diagnosing and managing talar dome lesions. Diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive evaluation, including imaging studies like X-rays, CT scans, or MRI, to assess the extent of the damage.
Treatment options range from conservative approaches, such as rest, immobilization, and physiotherapy, to more advanced interventions like arthroscopic surgery for severe cases. The goal of treatment is to alleviate pain, improve joint function, and prevent further cartilage damage and plan with you the long-term management of your ankle joint.
Ankle Impingements
Posterior and anterior ankle impingements are rare conditions that are usually missed and can significantly impact an individual’s mobility and quality of life. These conditions involve the compression or pinching of soft tissues, such as tendons or joint capsules, within the ankle joint, resulting in pain and limited range of motion.
Cause
Treatment
Cause
Posterior ankle impingement typically occurs when the soft tissues at the back of the ankle become irritated or trapped between the heel bone (calcaneus) and the lower leg bones (tibia and fibula). This often results from having an extra little bone at the back of the heel or practising activities that involve repetitive pointing of the toes, like ballet or certain athletic movements, and can cause symptoms such as pain and swelling at the rear of the ankle mimicking Achilles tendon conditions.
Anterior ankle impingement, on the other hand, involves the compression of tissues at the front of the ankle joint, usually due to overuse, trauma, or underlying structural issues. This condition leads to pain and stiffness at the front of the ankle, especially when bringing the foot towards the tibia, as in driving long hours, walking or climbing stairs.
Treatment
We are skilled at diagnosing and managing both posterior and anterior ankle impingements. Treatment options may include conservative measures like rest, physiotherapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and orthotic devices to alleviate pressure on the affected areas. In cases where conservative approaches are insufficient, surgical intervention may be necessary to address the impingement and restore normal ankle function and we are happy to refer you to the right surgeon.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition commonly encountered in podiatry, characterized by the compression or irritation of the tibial nerve as it passes through the tarsal tunnel which is a narrow passage in the ankle. This nerve plays a crucial role in providing sensation to the bottom of the foot, and when it becomes compressed or inflamed, it can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms.
Like carpal tunnel syndrome in the hands, patients with tarsal tunnel syndrome often experience pain, burning, tingling, or numbness in the foot and ankle. These symptoms can be exacerbated by prolonged standing or walking and can affect an individual’s daily activities and quality of life.
Cause
Treatment
Cause
Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition commonly encountered in podiatry, characterized by the compression or irritation of the tibial nerve as it passes through the tarsal tunnel which is a narrow passage in the ankle. This nerve plays a crucial role in providing sensation to the bottom of the foot, and when it becomes compressed or inflamed, it can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms.
Anterior ankle impingement, on the other hand, involves the compression of tissues at the front of the ankle joint, usually due to overuse, trauma, or underlying structural issues. This condition leads to pain and stiffness at the front of the ankle, especially when bringing the foot towards the tibia, as in driving long hours, walking or climbing stairs.
Treatment
We are experts in diagnosing and managing tarsal tunnel syndrome. Diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive examination, including neurological tests, to identify the underlying cause of the nerve compression. Imaging studies like MRI or nerve conduction studies may also be employed to confirm the diagnosis. Rest assured that we will refer you if and when needed.
Treatment options for tarsal tunnel syndrome may include conservative approaches such as orthotic devices, physiotherapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and lifestyle modifications to reduce pressure on the nerve. In more severe cases or when conservative methods are ineffective, surgical intervention to release the nerve or address any contributing factors may be recommended. We work with the best foot surgeons in the state.
Osteo- Arthritis
Osteoarthritis of any joint is degenerative joint condition that involves the gradual wearing down of cartilage that cushions the joint surfaces. In the ankle, numerous joints can be affected. Individuals with ankle osteoarthritis may experience pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced mobility, impacting their overall quality of life.
Cause
Treatment
Cause
This often results from aging, previous injuries, or abnormal foot mechanics like severe flat feet or even high-arched feet where the weight distribution is abnormal. It can also result from tarsal coalitions.
Anterior ankle impingement, on the other hand, involves the compression of tissues at the front of the ankle joint, usually due to overuse, trauma, or underlying structural issues. This condition leads to pain and stiffness at the front of the ankle, especially when bringing the foot towards the tibia, as in driving long hours, walking or climbing stairs.
Treatment
We play a crucial role in diagnosing and managing ankle osteoarthritis, offering a range of interventions such as orthotic devices to improve joint alignment and referral to physical therapy to enhance flexibility and strength, and recommendations for appropriate footwear. In more advanced cases, surgical options may be considered.
Our care focuses on preserving joint function and improving our patients’ ability to engage in daily activities. Regular monitoring and a multidisciplinary approach ensure comprehensive care tailored to the individual, promoting optimal ankle health and minimizing the impact of osteoarthritis on their overall well-being. Early intervention and lifestyle modifications are key components in managing ankle osteoarthritis effectively and enhancing the patient’s comfort and mobility.
Posterior Tibialis Dysfunction
Posterior Tibialis Dysfunction (PTTD) is a significant concern within the field of podiatry, and its recognition and treatment are vital to maintaining proper foot function.
Cause
Symptoms
Treatment
Cause
PTTD occurs when the posterior tibialis tendon, a crucial tendon running along the inner side of the ankle and foot, becomes weakened or damaged. This tendon is responsible for supporting the arch of the foot and controlling foot movement during walking. When it is impaired, it can lead to a painful condition known as adult-acquired flatfoot.
Symptoms
Patients with PTTD often experience symptoms like pain and swelling along the inside of the ankle, a flattening of the arch, and difficulty walking or standing for extended periods. If left untreated, PTTD can result in progressive deformity and impair overall foot and ankle function.
Treatment
We are experts in diagnosing and managing PTTD. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough examination, including gait analysis, and may include imaging studies like X-rays or MRI to assess the severity of the tendon damage. Treatment options vary depending on the stage of PTTD but often include orthotic devices, physiotherapy, bracing, and, in some cases, surgical intervention to repair or reconstruct the damaged tendon and foot.
Early detection and intervention are critical in effectively managing PTTD, as it can prevent further deformity and disability. We are here to help.
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Inceptos ut eros aptent commodo semper magna tempor pretium adipiscing. Cursus erat consequat ultrices volutpat eleifend. Ut iaculis lobortis interdum commodo eleifend at ultrices luctus lectus est. Egestas consectetur enim pharetra tempus proin ac quam accumsan efficitur quis dolor.
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