Your foot and ankle are structurally complex and perform physically intricate motions every day. A normal foot and ankle have 26 bones, 33 joints, and more than 100 bands of connective tissue, such as tendons, ligaments, and muscles. When this area of the body is injured, in pain, swollen, or disabled, you need a foot and ankle specialist to receive a proper diagnosis and accurate treatment.
You have several healthcare choices when you are struggling with a problem in your foot and ankle. It is important to choose a qualified physician for ankle pain as it could make a difference in your healing.
Who Should a Person See for Ankle Pain?
The type of healthcare professional to see for ankle pain depends on the underlying condition. However, without a proper diagnosis, it is difficult to know the best person to see. For example, if the source of your ankle pain is arthritis, a rheumatologist may be the physician to see for an accurate diagnosis and customized treatment plan.
Other healthcare professionals who may help with the diagnosis and treatment of certain foot and ankle conditions include your primary care physician, physical therapist, sports medicine specialist, or orthopedic foot and ankle specialist.
What Causes Ankle Pain?
Because the foot and ankle are complex, a variety of conditions can cause pain and discomfort. The most common are sprains and strains on the ankle joint. An ankle sprain involves ligaments that connect bones to the ankle, while an ankle strain involves the muscles or tendons and is typically due to overuse or sudden stretching.
Other common conditions of the foot and ankle that cause pain and sometimes disability are:
- Bursitis
- Flat feet
- Arthritis
- Footwear
- Infections
- Tendonitis
- Broken bones
- Overuse injuries
- Nerve compression
There are over 100 different types of arthritis, and appropriate treatment should be guided by a healthcare professional with expertise in the area.
Call Our Practice To Speak With a Physician About Your Ankle Pain
Ankle pain can be debilitating, painful, and frustrating. When you want the best care possible, you need a diagnosis to guide a customized treatment plan.
We encourage you to call our office and schedule a consultation with a physician who can diagnose your foot and ankle problems and recommend treatment options so you can achieve the best return to function.