Ankle Pain, Foot Pain and Plantar Fasciitis in Gainesville and Flowery Branch

Ankle Pain and Foot Pain

The ankle and foot are complex structures were over 28 bones come together to allow specific and controlled movement of the lower leg to the toe. On top of it all many muscles, tendons, blood vessels and nerves also transverse the ankle. So with all these parts working together, there can be many causes of ankle and foot pain. I will discuss some of the most common.

Pain coincides with other symptoms in many cases. Your symptomatology along with your history can help in the diagnosis of the problem. Some symptoms may include

Stiffness

Burning

Numbness

Tingling

Stinging

Soreness
Sensitive to temperature
Swelling

I have put together a list of the most common causes we treat in the office.

Plantar Fasciitis – One of the most common and often responds well to conservative treatment. When the tissue that connects the toes to the heel become inflamed and aggravated you develop plantar fasciitis. Running, excess weight, flat feet and tight calves are common causes of plantar fasciitis.

Hallux Valgus – This is also known as a "Bunion". The big toe is turned inwards and forms a very painful, swollen and sensitive bump on the inside of the foot at the base of the big toe. This can be hereditary or caused by wearing improper shoes. A tight shoe or too high of a heel can put extra pressure on the front part of the foot and stress the big toe.

Morton's Neuroma – The nerve between the third and fourth toes, (most seen location) becomes enlarged and aggravated causing sharp shooting pain, tingling, numbness, or a burning pain that increases when you apply pressure on the bottom of your foot. High heeled or tight shoes are a large contributor.

Metatarsalgia – This is a swelling and inflammation of the nerve in the ball of the foot. This is commonly seen in runners and people that are constantly on their feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome - Similar to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome but located in the foot/ankle instead of the hand. Normally felt at the bottom of the foot or inside of the ankle causing shooting pain, numbness, tingling, burning and similar symptoms.

Gout - This is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the joints. This uric acid forms crystals causing inflammation and swelling. You could imagine having sharp crystals in your joint causing excruciating pain every time you walk. Gout can often be controlled by your diet and avoiding alcohol.

Injuries to the ankle and foot can be caused by an impact such as a fall, twisting of the ankle, motor vehicle accident or by a repetitive action. Overuse is commonly associated with repetitive job functions where soft tissues become inflamed and cause compression of surrounding and or underlying tissues or nerves. Also see Tendonitis and Tendon Sheath Inflammation.

Arthiritis can include inflammatory arthritis such as rheumatoid and psoriatic, which are autoimmune issues and should be monitored by a rheumatologist, or osteoarthritis from long term overuse or the aftermath of a trauma seen years later.

Treatment for ankle or foot pain depends greatly on the actual problem. Since chiropractors do not use drugs or surgery, the appropriate technique or techniques will be utilized to restore proper function and reduce inflammation. The bones of the ankle and foot may be adjusted to realign and reduce the cause of the problem. Physiotherapy, (such as ice/heat, electric stim, ultrasound and laser therapy), can aid in pain relief and decrease inflammation.

Our office is located in Oakwood, GA. We also serve Gainesville, Flowery Branch and surrounding areas.