At Banner Health, our foot and ankle team - including orthopedic surgeons and podiatrists - uses the latest research and technology to treat foot and ankle problems. We’re skilled and experienced in treating a wide range of conditions and injuries. Our team is dedicated to providing high-quality care and will work with you to create a treatment plan that gets you back on your feet.
Foot and ankle pain can result from wear and tear on cartilage, soft tissue or bones. It can also be caused by injuries or medical conditions like arthritis.
Because your feet and ankles bear your body’s weight, they’re vulnerable to overuse and stress. Injury or inflammation in this area can lead to pain, stiffness and limited mobility.
Without proper treatment, foot and ankle problems can lead to long-term complications. That’s why it’s important to see a specialist if you have ongoing pain, swelling or stiffness.
Foot and ankle pain often follows an injury - like a sprain or fracture - caused by a fall or sudden movement. Common injuries include:
Foot and ankle pain can also result from medical conditions, including:
Because the foot is more complex than the ankle, there are several other conditions that could be causing pain there. These foot conditions include:
Mild injuries can often be treated at home with:
Avoid putting weight on the injured foot and adjust your activity until symptoms improve.
See a Banner specialist if you have chronic pain, fractures or more severe symptoms. Your provider will begin with a physical exam and may use imaging tools such as:
Many foot and ankle conditions and injuries can be treated without the need for a surgical procedure. Your orthopedic specialist will explore all options before choosing to operate. Nonsurgical treatments may include:
If nonsurgical care isn’t effective, surgery may be the next step. Common procedures include:
Recovery time can range from 2 to 6 months depending on the procedure. You’ll have regular follow-up visits and may need physical therapy. With proper care, most patients make a full recovery.