Jump into the New Year: Tips for Healthy Feet and Ankles
Jump into the New Year with Both Feet!
Your feet are intricate structures composed of 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Together, these parts provide balance, support, and mobility, enabling you to walk an average of 75,000 miles by the age of 50! With so many moving parts, it’s no surprise that feet are prone to injury and overuse.
Here’s a look at some common causes of foot pain and how they can be treated.
1. Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis occurs when the thick band of tissue connecting your heel bone to your toes becomes inflamed. It’s often related to overstretching or overuse.
Symptoms:
- Heel and arch pain, often worse in the mornings
Treatment Options:
- Stretching exercises
- Physical therapy
- Supportive footwear
2. Bunions
Bunions are bony protrusions caused by pressure that pushes the big toe out of alignment. Tight shoes are often to blame.
Symptoms:
- Bone deformity
- Joint pain
- Stiffness or swelling
- Redness or tenderness
Treatment Options:
- Wearing more spacious shoes
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Minimally invasive surgery to remove painful bunions
3. Ankle Arthritis
This condition results from damaged or worn-out cartilage in the ankle joint.
Symptoms:
- Pain and stiffness
- Tenderness around the joint
- Swelling
- Decreased range of motion
Treatment Options:
- Lifestyle modifications
- Pain management strategies
- Ankle replacement surgery for severe cases
Diagnosing Foot and Ankle Conditions
Diagnosing foot issues involves:
- Physical examinations
- Symptom and medical history reviews
- Gait analysis
- Imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans
Comprehensive Treatment Options
Depending on your condition, treatments may include:
- Pain relief medications (OTC or prescription)
- Orthotics or custom-fitted shoes
- Physical therapy
- Surgery for advanced cases
Don’t Ignore Foot Pain
If you’re experiencing foot or ankle discomfort, it’s essential to consult an expert. At Capital Ortho, our team can evaluate, diagnose, and treat your condition to help you move better and live pain-free.
Meet Our Foot & Ankle Team
Dr. Bradley Kellum, Dr. Daniel Ross, and Nurse Practitioner Tonya Branning specialize in treating foot and ankle conditions and are committed to helping patients regain mobility and comfort.
Why Choose Capital Ortho?
For over 30 years, Capital Ortho has been a trusted provider of orthopedic care in Mississippi, with locations in Flowood, Madison, Clinton, Brookhaven, Hazlehurst, and Kosciusko.
Request an Appointment
Don’t let foot or ankle pain hold you back. Request an appointment today or call 601-987-8200 to start your journey to better mobility with Capital Ortho!