Foot and ankle sprains, strains, and fractures are common injuries that can result from a sports injury, fall, or accident. Regardless of the cause, these conditions can make it difficult or painful to walk.
Our doctors treat all types of foot and ankle injuries, such as:
- Achilles tendon rupture
- Foot and ankle fractures
- Foot and ankle sprains and strains, such as high ankle sprains
- Sports-related sprains, strains, and fractures
Symptoms of Foot and Ankle Injuries
An ankle or foot sprain occurs when ligaments in the foot or ankle are torn or partially torn. A foot or ankle fracture happens when a bone in the foot or ankle breaks.
Symptoms of a sprain or fracture of the foot or ankle include:
- Pain that worsens when the patient bears weight on the hurt foot
- Swelling or bruising
- Restricted range of motion or instability
Diagnosis
To diagnose the severity of a foot or ankle injury, we will examine the foot and get a history of the injury. The doctor might order additional tests to determine the extent of the injury. These include:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- Ultrasounds
- X-rays
MRIs are particularly useful for spotting stress fractures and soft tissue injuries such as ankle ligament sprains. If a patient has an ankle or foot fracture, the doctor might also order computed tomography (CT) scans, which offer a comprehensive view of the bones and joints.
Ankle Sprain Treatment
We often use rest and anti-inflammatory medication to manage foot or ankle sprain pain. Other conservative treatments include:
- Casts or boots
- Physical therapy
- Ultrasound and electrical stimulation
Foot and Ankle Surgery
Foot and ankle sprains and fractures often can heal with nonsurgical treatments. However, depending on the severity and location of a fracture, surgery might be required.
Our specialists work closely with each patient to determine if he or she requires surgery. When surgery is needed, we offer minimally invasive reconstruction surgery, as well as traditional open surgery.
