Treating Your Ankle Pain: Long-term Foot and Ankle Solutions

Ankle and foot joints work incredibly hard and, as a consequence, are at high risk for long-term pain and injury. Whether it is a sprain sustained in an acute trauma, a long-term issue such as arthritis, or a long-standing strain, ankle aches can hinder function and significantly impact life. At Foot & Ankle Surgery of New Braunfels in New Braunfels, TX, our skilled podiatrists, Dr. Sarah James and Dr. Brandon James, offer effective treatment for bunions.

Ankle Sprains

An ankle sprain occurs when a foot rotates in a direction that stretches and sometimes tears ligaments surrounding an ankle joint. Sprains are common in exercise, sports, and even activities such as walking over rough ground. When not addressed, they can become a source of long-term aches and a lack of stability.

Sprain symptoms include bruising, puffiness, soreness, and painful weight bearing. Most sprains can be addressed using the RICE principle (rest, ice, compression, and elevation), anti-inflammatory drugs, and short-term bracing. However, therapy may become necessary for more significant sprains to restore a full range of motion, restore function, and strengthen the muscles.

Other Common Ankle Syndromes for Ankle Pain

Other culprits for ankle aches include a variety of syndromes, including:

• Achilles strain: Inflammation and, in a few instances, tearing of an Achilles tendon, creating stiffness and heel ache.
• Arthritis and osteoarthritis: Wearing down joint cartilage creates long-term aches and less function.
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome: Compression of a tibial nerve, creating tingling, burning, and, in a few cases, loss of sensation.
• Peroneal strain: Inflammation and, in a few cases, tearing of peroneal tendons at an ankle's lateral (outer) region.
• Fractures: Partial breakage and, in a few cases, a complete break in bones in an ankle, sometimes in bracing and sometimes even surgical form.

Depending on the severity, care can range from medications, injections, and physical therapy to surgical intervention to correct the issue.

Seek Foot and Ankle Pain Relief

Foot & Ankle Surgery of New Braunfels can deliver expert care for recurring foot and ankle aches and wobbling. Drs. Brandon James and Sarah James can build a custom healing and use restoration care schedule for your ankle. To make an appointment, contact (830) 387-4427 today and begin your journey towards healing and comfort.