By Chantell Peterson
The ankle is composed of bones, muscles, tendons and ligaments that support the weight of the body and allows it to move. Since the ankles hold the weight of the body a lot of strain is placed on them. Because the ankle plays such a vital role in our daily functions, when ankle pain is experienced, it can be very burdensome and limit one’s abilities.
Ankle pain is often due to an ankle sprain and can be caused by an injury, ankle instability, arthritis, gout, fractures, nerve compressions (or tarsal tunnel syndrome), Achilles tendonitis, tendonitis, infection and poor structural alignment of the leg or foot. Ankle pain can also be associated with swelling, redness, bruising, stiffness, numbness, tingling, burning and warmth in that area. Sometimes the pain can be dull, piercing, throbbing and even intense. Often weakness occurs in the ankle which then causes instability and problems walking due to limited movement in those joints.
The doctors at Southwest Foot and Ankle Center specialize in the treatment, diagnosis and prevention of ankle conditions. Our doctors can evaluate your condition to determine the best treatment options available for your condition. Initial treatment for some may consist of rest, ice, elevation, and immobilization and may also include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen, physical therapy, and cortisone injections. It is best to let a certified doctor determine treatment so that you do not further damage the ankle, thus causing more problems or worsening your condition.
While the vast majority of ankle conditions are minor and may only require conservative treatment, others can be a bit more complex. Some people may experience ankle fractures or ankle arthritis and may need an ankle fusion, triple fusion or ankle replacement. With new technology being introduced every day, the surgeries required to fix these conditions are minimally invasive and day surgeries with very little to no down time. Some people think that orthopedic doctors are the only ones who handle these procedures but in fact foot and ankle specialists are more specialized in this area.
The main goal with any ankle surgery is to get the ankle joint to heal back to its normal shape. This will allow the ankle to regain normal movement and hopefully decrease the chances of ankle arthritis in the future. As with any condition, it is always best to treat the condition as early as possible to improve the overall health and function of that area.
If you or someone you know experiences ankle pain or ankle problems, call our office today at 972-316-0902 for an evaluation. Once our doctors diagnose and treat your condition, you will be on the road to fast recovery and up and running in no time. Why wait, call today! We are here to help improve your life and help you become pain free.
Dr. Reza Mobarak heads the Southwest Foot and Ankle Center with offices in Plano, Lewisville and Irving and may be reached at 972-316-0902. www.swfacenter.com
