Are you experiencing discomfort in your ankles or feet?
Understanding the underlying causes of ankle and foot pain is crucial for effective treatment. At The Joint Pain Clinics, we specialise in diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions that contribute to ankle and foot pain.
Below, we outline common causes, associated conditions, and treatment options, with a focus on ultrasound-guided injection therapy.
Common Causes and Conditions:
Ankle Sprains: Ankle sprains occur when ligaments in the ankle are stretched or torn, often due to twisting or rolling the ankle. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight.
Plantar Fasciitis: Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. It commonly causes heel pain, especially with the first steps in the morning or after prolonged periods of rest.
Achilles Tendonitis: Achilles tendonitis involves inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Symptoms include pain and stiffness in the back of the ankle, particularly during physical activity.
Metatarsalgia: Metatarsalgia is pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot, typically due to overuse, high-impact activities, or wearing improper footwear. Symptoms may include aching, burning, or sharp pain in the forefoot.
Bunions: Bunions are bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe, causing it to deviate towards the other toes. This can lead to pain, swelling, and difficulty wearing shoes.
Morton's Neuroma: Morton's neuroma is a benign growth of tissue around a nerve that leads to the toes, often between the third and fourth toes. It can cause sharp, burning pain in the ball of the foot or a sensation of standing on a pebble.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome: Tarsal tunnel syndrome is similar to carpal tunnel syndrome but affects the ankle and foot. It occurs when the tibial nerve is compressed, leading to tingling, numbness, and shooting pain along the inner ankle and sole of the foot.
Treatment Options, Including Ultrasound-Guided Injection:
Conservative Treatments: Depending on the underlying condition, conservative treatments such as rest, ice, elevation, and over-the-counter pain relievers may provide relief from ankle and foot pain.
Physiotherapy: Exercises and stretches can help strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce pain in the ankles and feet.
Custom Orthotics: Custom orthotic inserts can provide support and alignment to alleviate pressure and reduce pain in the feet.
Ultrasound Guided Steroid Injections: Ultrasound-guided steroid injections deliver anti-inflammatory medication directly to the affected area, providing targeted relief from pain and inflammation.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: PRP therapy utilises the patient's own blood platelets to promote healing and reduce inflammation in damaged tissues.
At The Joint Pain Clinic, our experienced clinicians are skilled in administering ultrasound-guided injections to target the precise location of pain and inflammation in the ankle and foot. This minimally invasive technique ensures optimal accuracy and efficacy, leading to faster relief and improved outcomes for our patients.
Don't let ankle and foot pain limit your mobility and quality of life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards pain-free living.
It is essential to consult a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable treatment approach for foot & ankle pain.