Ankle & Foot

Overview

 

Each foot includes 26 bones, 30 joints, and more than 100 muscles, ligaments, and tendons. The ankle consists of the ends of the tibia & fibula, and talus. The talus sits on top of the calcaneus (heel bone). The subtalar joint and the true ankle joint are responsible for the ability to bend and extend the foot.

 

Ankle Sprain

 

Ankle sprains are one of the most common orthopedic injuries. When you abnormally turn your ankle, it stretches the ligaments that connect your bones. When your ligaments overstretch or tear, you sprain your ankle. This most often occurs during sports but can also result from something as simple as missing a stair or a fall.

 

Ankle Fracture

 

An ankle fracture, more commonly referred to as a broken ankle, is a fracture of one or more bones that make up the ankle joint. Ankle fractures often occur during falls or automobile accidents. Your risk of breaking an ankle increases if you participate in high-impact sports, suddenly increase your activity levels or have osteoporosis.

 

Achilles Tendonitis

 

Your Achilles tendon is a strong band of tissue that connects your calf muscle to the back of the leg on the heel bone. The Achilles tendon can be damaged or injured in both acute injuries and by repetitive strain. The severity of the injury can vary and range from inflammation to a tear in the ligament.

 

Plantar Fasciitis

 

Plantar fasciitis is a painful condition caused by inflammation of the thick band of tissue at the bottom of the foot, known as the plantar fascia. Plantar fasciitis often results from overuse and is especially common in athletes due to repetitive strains to the tissue.

Over time, the fascia becomes inflamed due to repeat tearing and stretching. Other risk factors for plantar fasciitis include having a high arch in the foot, obesity, and tight calf muscles.

 

Treatments

 

An examination by an orthopedic specialist is crucial when you have persistent pain or difficulty.

Typically, noninvasive treatments are tried first. This may include stretching, exercises, bracing, therapy, or injections. If a discussion of surgery is needed, minimally invasive surgical techniques are utilized such as arthroscopy or ultrasound guidance.

  • RICE

    • In some cases, the RICE method is all that’s needed to repair your shoulder. RICE stands for rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Many minor shoulder problems end up worsening when patients don’t allow enough time to rest and recover.

  • Physical & Occupational Therapy

    • Physical or occupational therapy can be prescribed as part of the treatment program if needed.

    • Helpful to regain mobility and restore your strength and function.

Schedule an Appointment

Same-day Doctor Visits are Available

Get personalized medical care today. Every patient is seen by an orthopedic surgeon, not a nurse practitioner or physician's assistant. We recommend making an appointment. Please contact us at (808) 744-3360 or aloha@orthopedicshi.com to schedule.