Foot and Ankle – Overview

From the moment we get out of bed in the morning, our feet and ankles are continually in use. They sustain our entire body weight at all times, helping us to move from one location to another and allowing us to walk, run, and jump. With all of the stress we put on our feet and ankles on a daily basis, it’s simple to see why the injuries are so common, says Dr. Prashant Arya, who is considered to be the best orthopaedic doctor in Newtown. Keeping up to date on these injuries can help you figure out if the pain you’re experiencing is more significant than you believed.

Common Injuries of the Foot and Ankle

Here are some of the most common foot and ankle injuries, as listed by the orthopaedic surgeon in North Kolkata, for your better understanding:

Arthritis

Osteoarthritis is a prevalent cause of foot and ankle pain. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease in which the cartilage that cushions the joint ends wears away over time. While osteoarthritis develops over time as a result of repeated usage of the joint, injuries can harm the cartilage directly or alter the way the ankle joint functions, causing degeneration over time.

After an injury to the foot, such as a sprain, fracture, or dislocation, post-traumatic arthritis occurs, which can cause the joint to deteriorate prematurely. A past injury is responsible for 70% of arthritis in the foot and ankle.

In most cases, a doctor will prescribe anti-inflammatory medication. Injections of steroid drugs are also used to treat inflammation and pain. Rest, ice, physical therapy, exercise, and bracing are all commonly involved in the treatment methods that are commonly recommended.

When nonoperative approaches fail, orthopaedic surgery becomes a viable alternative.

Bursitis

Bursae are tiny fluid-filled sacs that help minimise friction between tendons and between tendons and bone in the foot and ankle. This bursa can become irritated, resulting in pain and the inability to move freely. A physical blow, a fall, overuse or repetitive stress, or an illness can all cause inflammation. Bursitis can also be caused by rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, or gout.

Resting the ankle, applying ice, using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines like ibuprofen, or receiving corticosteroid injections are all common treatments for bursitis. Surgery may be required if nonsurgical methods fail to relieve pain.

Hammer Toes

A malformation of the second, third, or fourth toe is known as a hammer toe. The middle joint of the toe is twisted, resembling a hammer. An imbalance in the surrounding muscles, tendons, or ligaments that ordinarily hold the toe straight causes this disorder.

According to the orthopaedic surgeon in Salt lake, hammer toes are initially flexible and treatable with modest procedures, but if left untreated, they can become immovable and necessitate surgery.

Tendon or Ligament Injury

The bands that link the foot and ankle muscles to the bone are known as tendons. Ligaments help to keep the joints in place. Both are essential for foot and ankle stability as well as daily function. It’s probable that you have a tendon or ligament tear if you’re suffering from severe pain, swelling, and loss of function.

You’ll be told to keep your weight off the injured foot and may need to use a brace to keep it stable. Swelling, inflammation, and pain can all be reduced with medication. If the tendon or ligament is fully ripped and cannot be treated conservatively, surgery to repair it may be required.