When dealing with pain upon standing, walking or running, it is possible a foot and ankle disorder is to blame. New shoes, inserts and ankle supports may help for a short time, but the discomfort may return. You may be dealing with a common disorder that requires a temporary or permanent change in activity level. Making an appointment with a podiatrist, or foot and ankle doctor, can help with an evaluation of the problem and recommendations for treatment.

Foot and ankle disorder examples

Stepping up and stepping out may become difficult when plagued by pain. These five common issues range from causing mild discomfort to chronic difficulties.

1. Plantar fasciitis

If getting out of bed in the morning brings sharp pain throughout the bottom of the foot and heel, it may be plantar fasciitis. The causes range from over-use, such as excessive exercise or standing, to obesity and non-use. Those diagnosed by a podiatrist with plantar fasciitis typically have a tighter Achilles tendon and tend to walk on the inner part of their feet (pronation.)

2. Hammer toe

Malformed toes are the telltale signs of hammer toe. A deficiency in muscle development somewhere in the foot or lower leg causes an over compensation on the part of the toes for stability. Though tight shoes or high heels get the blame, they may only be a contributing factor. The condition can be painless or not. Corns and bunions may form and become painful. Arthritis may also develop in the toe joints.

3. Peroneal tendinitis

Repetitive motion and overuse seem to be the main culprits in developing peroneal tendinitis. This foot and ankle disorder develops as the foot is rolled outward, causing the bones to rub against the peroneal tendon running down the outside of the foot. The arch may also be affected as a second peroneal tendon runs through it at the bottom of the foot. This painful condition may require surgery if a secession in overuse does not help.

4. Bone spurs

Common bumps may start to form on top of the bones in the foot and ankle as people age. These osteophytes are commonly known as bone spurs. According to verywellhealth.com, bone spurs develop as people age due to bone and cartilage loss. It is an attempt by the body to create new bone. Osteoarthritis can cause bone spurs to grow as it increases the rate of bone loss. Spurs can become painful and hinder movement.

5. Ganglion cysts

Raised fluid-filled bumps that crop up overnight along the joints or tendons of the foot and ankle are probably ganglion cysts. Depending on where it develops, a cyst may cause pain and hinder movement, especially along the joints. Ganglion cysts usually go away on their own, but the podiatrist may want to drain them if they are causing pain.

Conclusion

Living with the effects of a foot and ankle disorder may cause some people to modify activities and make lifestyle changes. The pain that can occur as a result of even the most common problems may be enough to force the issue. A visit to a podiatrist may help with a diagnosis of the cause and treatment to ease the pain.

Request an appointment here: https://www.pocatellopodiatry.com or call Ambulatory Foot & Ankle Clinic at (208) 803-0010 for an appointment in our Pocatello office.

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