Top Of Foot And Ankle Pain

Your Feet Are The Foundation Of Your Body

The Foot Institute is a foot clinic located in North York and Thornhill. Our Chiropodists understand that when you are experiencing foot health issues, it affects your well being. These foot problems can make it difficult to manage all aspects of your life in a healthy and productive way. The best solution for foot health issues is seeing a chiropodist right away to treat foot pain and other issues.

What Is A Strained Foot

A strained foot involves a stretched or torn tendon or muscle in your foot. Your feet have 19 intrinsic muscles and several tendons. Whereas muscles provide strength to your feet, tendons provide stability by connecting your muscles to your bones. The most common cause of foot strain is overuse, leading to tendonitis. However, stretched and torn muscles may occur from awkward movements.

How To Treat A Sprained Or Strained Foot

As with fractures, you should also use the RICE method to treat a fractured foot before you see a doctor. If you have a mild sprain or strain, the RICE method should provide sufficient treatment to let your injury heal. It is still a good idea to see a doctor about a mild sprain or strain in case your injury requires further care.

If your sprain or strain is moderate to severe, your doctor will immobilize your foot or ankle with a cast, brace or splint. The most severe foot sprains and strains require surgery. Whatever extra treatments your doctor provides, continue to use the RICE method to aid healing.

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Why Do I Have Pain In My Foot Or Ankle

Most people experience pain in and around their feet or ankles at some point in their lives.

Its one of the most complex, hard-working regions of your body. It has 26 bones and 33 small joints, all held together by a network of soft tissue made up of muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, and blood vessels.

Most cases of foot or ankle pain are short term and are caused by soft tissue injuries, such as sprains or strains.

These should gradually heal with the help of simple self-care measures. Though some could take a few months to fully recover, you probably wont need to seek treatment from a healthcare professional.

However, some pain can have no obvious cause or may not improve significantly with self-care.

Pain that seems to be getting worse, does not improve, or lasts longer than a few months could be due to structural changes in the foot or ankle, or an underlying condition.

There can be several explanations for long-term pain in and around the feet or ankles, such as:

• badly fitting footwear

What Are The Most Common Causes Of Pain In Front Of Ankle And Top Of Foot

There are many causes of pain in front of ankle and top of foot. Some people experience this type of pain due to a condition called plantar fasciitis, while others have it because theyve worn shoes that dont fit properly or have high heels on their feet all day long.

If youre experiencing any kind of discomfort in your ankles or feet, we recommend visiting an orthopedic specialist so they can diagnose the problem correctly before starting treatment plans!

So with that said, lets have break down of the possible problems.

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Problems Linked To Low And High Arches

Arches that are higher or lower than average can increase your risk of developing other problems, such as:

• corns and calluses.

The self-care tips can help ease pain in your arches.

Changing your footwear to a well-made running trainer that you feel supports the shape of your arch may prevent further painful changes to the structure of your arches.

Insoles and arch supports can help but its best to visit a foot specialist, such as a podiatrist, to get ones designed specifically for your foot shape.

If youre buying new footwear its best to take any adaptations, such as insoles, padding, or arch supports with you, as you may need a larger shoe size to fit them in comfortably.

Losing weight, if you need to, can reduce the strain on your arches and may prevent further long-term changes.

You may find it difficult to do exercises that put a lot of pressure through your feet. Swimming is a good way to improve and maintain your fitness because the water supports your body weight.

What Should You Do If You Think You Have A Fractured Ankle

It can be difficult to tell the difference between an ankle sprain and a fractured ankle. This is why you should be evaluated by a physician. The physician will likely order x-rays and in some cases further imaging studies such as a stress x-ray which is used to evaluate a syndesmosis injury, a CT scan, or an MRI.

Most ankle fractures can be treated without surgery, but some do require surgery to heal correctly. You and your doctor will discuss your treatment options to figure out what is best for your injury. You may be sent home in a temporary splint, a brace, boot or cast. Once you get home you should elevate your ankle to about the level of your heart when you are lying down. When sitting up you can prop it on pillows or an ottoman or table. If you do not have a very bulky dressing on you should apply ice or frozen peas for 20 minutes per hour allowing about 40 minutes between sessions to prevent burns. Never put ice directly on your skin wrap it in a light towel or t-shirt. Make sure you understand your treatment plan, including whether or not you are allowed to put weight on your ankle, and schedule a time to follow up with your physician.

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What Is Foot Pain

Foot pain can be debilitating to an active lifestyle. Foot pain can have many sources, from fractures and sprains to nerve damage. Listed below are 3 common areas of pain in the foot and their causes:

• Pain in the ball of the foot. Pain in the ball of the foot, located on the bottom of the foot behind the toes, may be caused by nerve or joint damage in that area. In addition, a benign growth, such as Mortons neuroma, may cause the pain. Corticosteroid injections and wearing supportive shoe inserts may help relieve the pain. Sometimes, surgery is needed.

• Plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is characterized by severe pain in the heel of the foot, especially when standing up after resting. The condition is due to an overuse injury of the sole surface of the foot and results in inflammation of the fascia, a tough, fibrous band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the base of the toes.

  Plantar fasciitis is more common in women, people who are overweight, people with occupations that require a lot of walking or standing on hard surfaces, people with flat feet, and people with high arches. Walking or running, especially with tight calf muscles, may also cause the condition.

  Treatment may include:

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What Can I Do To Relieve Ankle Pain

Most ankle pain gets better with rest, ice and over-the-counter pain medication. Follow your providers instructions for at-home treatments for ankle pain. Your provider may recommend the RICE method . If pain is severe or your ankle still hurts after a few days of at-home care, see your provider.

The most common home treatments for ankle pain are:

• Rest: If youve had an injury such as a sprain, you should stay off your feet for a while. Talk to your provider about how long you should rest. Crutches or a walking boot can help you get around without putting weight on your ankle.
• Ice: To reduce swelling, apply ice or a cold compress to the area for 15 to 20 minutes every few hours.
• Compression: Ask your provider about wrapping an elastic bandage around your ankle to reduce inflammation. Be careful not to wrap it too tight.
• Elevation: Resting with your ankle elevated above your heart reduces swelling. You can also try to sleep with your foot elevated at night.
• Over-the-counter pain medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can relieve pain and reduce swelling. Talk to your provider before taking any medication.
• Supportive footwear: Make sure your shoes provide adequate support for your feet and ankles. Avoid flip-flops, sandals and shoes that are too loose. Its especially important to wear proper footwear when playing sports. Activities such as basketball and volleyball can lead to ankle injuries, especially without the right footwear.

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What Can I Expect If I Have Extensor Tendinitis

You should expect to make a full recovery from extensor tendinitis. Its a temporary injury that shouldnt have long-term impacts on your health or your ability to work or do the activities you love.

Do I need to miss work or school with extensor tendinitis?

If you can do your job or schoolwork without putting additional stress on your injured hand or foot, you shouldnt need to miss work or school while your tendons heal.

If the work you do or one of your hobbies caused extensor tendinitis, you might need to take time away from them while you recover.

Can I walk or run with extensor tendinitis?

Most people can still walk and move with extensor tendinitis in their foot. Just make sure to give your body time to recover after moving or walking.

Talk to your healthcare provider before resuming any physical activities like running or working out. If you resume any activity that puts stress on your injured tendon especially if that activity caused your tendinitis you can make your symptoms worse. You might also cause more damage to your tendon, which can lead to more serious issues like a torn or ruptured tendon.

How Can I Prevent Extensor Tendinitis

During sports or other physical activities:

• Wear the right protective equipment.
• Dont play through the pain if your hand or foot hurts during or after physical activity.
• Give your body time to rest and recover after intense activity.
• Stretch and warm up before playing sports or working out.
• Cool down and stretch after physical activity.
• Consider wearing wrist sleeves or ankle sleeves at work or during physical activity if you notice your tendons are sore at the end of the day.

Follow these general safety tips to reduce your risk of an injury:

• Make sure your home and workspace are free from clutter that could trip you or others.
• Always use the proper tools or equipment at home to reach things. Never stand on chairs, tables or countertops.
• Use your cane or walker if you have difficulty walking or have an increased risk for falls.

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Why Do I Have Pain On Top Of My Foot

Why do I have pain on top of my foot, you ask? Well, there are so many bones, tendons and muscles in your foot. So, the answer is: many things could create that top of foot pain.

Now, today, well walk you through the many reasons you may have pain on top of your foot. But, whatever the cause, please remember. Were here to help you find relief. Like we did for our patient S. Bell, who shared after a recent visit, Dr. Bachmann took the time to listen to me and clearly told me what my options were. He did not try to guide me toward one or the other and was very helpful is suggesting what treatments were available to me. He is not one-size-fits-all when it comes to treatment. I feel as though I was treated as an individual with my treatment geared to me specifically.

Ready to figure out the cause of that top of foot pain? Just keep reading for some potential causes. And, if anything sounds familiar, be sure to schedule an appointment at one of our podiatrist offices in Spring, TX or Tomball, TX.

Front Foot And Ankle Pain

Sinus Tarsi SyndromeSinus Tarsi Syndrome is often the cause of ongoing foot pain following an ankle sprain or twisting of the ankle.

Extensor TendonitisThe most common cause of top of foot pain, this condition is typically characterized by pain when the toes are lifted up.

Claw ToeA condition where muscle tightness and weakness make the outer four toes curl inward.

GoutBuild-up of uric acid crystals in the big toe joint causes very intense toe pain, swelling and redness. Gout symptoms typically develop suddenly at night and last for a few weeks. More

Tibialis Anterior TendonitisIrritation of the tendon across the top of the ankle causes pain typically when walking on stairs or inclines.

Ankle SprainThe tearing of a Leads to ankle pain and instability. 85% of ankle injuries are ligament sprains. More

Posterior Tibial TendonitisThis condition is when the tendon running vertically along the inner ankle becomes inflamed or torn, making it difficult to stand on tiptoes and causes pain and swelling. More

Stress FracturesCaused by repetitive overuse, this is common in runners and running sports. More

Bunions & BunionettesThese occur when one of the toes starts to deviate inwards causing the base of the toe to stick outwards. This is known as a bunion for the big toe and a bunionette for the little toe. More

Mallet Toe & Hammer ToeThese are deformities of the middle toes that very painful and quick intervention is important. More

Interested in learning about about your pain?

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When Should You See An Orthopedic Doctor For A Foot Fracture Sprain Or Strain

For a severe injury, you need to treat it as an emergency and see your doctor immediately. For less severe cases with minimal swelling and pain, you should apply home treatments first for a couple of days and then consult your physician if the pain persists. If you have a sports injury, you should consult your doctor for treatment right away.

Here are some signs of foot fractures, sprains or strains that require medical attention:

• You experience frequent pain weeks after your injury.
• You notice a deformity in your foot, toe or ankle.
• Your pain worsens or does not get better with time.
• Your swelling does not improve within two to five days after your injury.

You should go to the emergency room for a foot fracture, sprain or strain if you experience these symptoms:

• Inability to walk or put any weight on your foot
• Open wound or bones poking through the skin, also known as a compound fracture

What Is Extensor Tendinitis

Extensor tendinitis is a type of tendinitis that affects the tendons on the back of your hands and the top of your feet.

Tendinitis is a condition that refers to any inflammation or irritation that affects your tendons. Extensor tendinitis is inflammation in your extensor tendons the tendons that help you straighten your fingers, lift your toes, extend your wrists back and bring your ankle up.

Extensor tendinitis is usually caused by repetitive motions that build up irritation in your tendons over time and overload your tendons with increased weight or tension. The most common causes are using your hands or feet for work, as a part of a sport you play or activity you do often.

Like other types of tendinitis, the best way to treat extensor tendinitis is to avoid activities that make you overuse your tendons and give your body time to rest and recover. You can also reduce your symptoms with at-home treatments, physical and occupational therapy and over-the-counter medications.

Talk to your provider if your symptoms are getting worse or dont go away after a few days. Visit your provider right away if you cant use your hands or feet like you usually do.

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How Do You Relieve Pain On The Top Of Your Foot

Its important to seek treatment for pain in the top of the foot. Feet carry the bodys weight and any issue causing pain can worsen if its not addressed by a physician.

Treatment approaches for foot pain will vary depending on what the underlying diagnosis turns out to be, but there are several methods that are effective.

Treatment for top of foot pain can include some of the following:

Foot Pain Right Away In The Morning

Even if youre not a morning person who jumps out of bed with a smile to start the day, you should not be in pain when you step out of bed. Shooting pain in your foot or ankle right away in the morning is most often a sign of plantar fasciitis. This condition caused by inflammation of the tendons that connect your heel to your toes. Other causes of morning foot pain could include:

• Ill-fitting shoes

While there are aches and pains that dont warrant a visit to the doctors office, it is always better to err on the side of caution. If you have persistent foot or ankle pain that lasts longer than a week, make an appointment to come in and see the experts at Orthopedic Institute.

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How Top Of The Foot Pain And Swelling Diagnosed

If you have continual foot pain that lasts lengthier than a week despite the home approach, make an appointment to see your physician.

When you make a consultation with your physician, theyll ask you about any other symptoms and potential ways it could have injured your foot. They may seek about your physical activity and any past damages to your feet or ankle. Your physician will then review your foot. They may press on various areas on the foot to see where you feel pain.

Then, they will review your foot for any symptoms of swelling or deformity. They will study at you walking and then review at the movement and strength in and evaluate the range of motion.

To check for extensor tendonitis, your physician will ask you to flex your foot downwards, and then try to pull your toes up while they resist. If you feel pain, extensor tendonitis is possible the origin of top of the foot pain.

If your physician assumes a broken bone, fracture, or bone spurs, theyll conduct an X-ray of the foot.Other tests your physician may run comprise:

• Blood tests, which can analyze conditions such as gout
• An MRI for damage to the peroneal nerve

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