What Causes Joint Pain in the Foot and Ankle?

joint painWhen you have joint pain in your foot or ankle, the team at Alliance Foot & Ankle Specialists work to find the cause and address it. Although many issues can lead to foot and ankle joint pain, some of the most common are:

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are bony bumps that develop on the base of your big toe. Caused when your big toe pushes against the toe next to it, bunions result in the toe joint growing larger and sticking out.

While wearing narrow or tight shoes can lead to bunions, other issues often cause their formation, including arthritis, stress, or an inherited structural defect.

When bunions become painful, your podiatrist may recommend taking an over-the-counter pain reliever, wearing shoe inserts, splinting the big toe, or making sure you have plenty of room in your shoes. In extreme cases, they may suggest surgery.

How Is Foot Joint Pain Treated?

The cause of your joint pain determines how the team at Alliance Foot & Ankle Specialists treats it. In cases of arthritis, your podiatrist can’t cure the condition but may reduce your pain and improve any mobility issues.

They may recommend resting the foot, avoiding activities that aggravate the condition, and reducing stress on the joint, which may include losing weight. Also, they may suggest wearing a splint or engaging in physical therapy. In extreme cases, they may advise surgery.

With traumatic injuries and stress factors, your podiatrist may immobilize the foot or ankle with a brace or aircast. They may also recommend using crutches. In other cases, they may order a RICE regimen:

  • Rest
  • Ice
  • Compression
  • Elevation

In some cases, the team at Alliance Foot & Ankle Specialists may discuss the option of Regenerative Stem Cell Therapy, involving stem cell injections. Although these treatments may not help with every condition, they can have a restorative impact in many cases.

To see how you can reduce joint pain in your foot or ankle, contact Alliance Foot & Ankle Specialists today to schedule your initial consultation.