What Is Tendonitis of the Foot and Ankle?

Tendonitis of the foot and ankle occurs when the tendons in these areas become inflamed due to overuse, injury, or strain. This condition can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty with movement. Different types of tendonitis affect specific areas of the foot and ankle. Posterior tendonitis involves the tibialis posterior tendon, which supports the arch and can become strained from excessive activity or flat feet. Medial tendonitis affects the tendons on the inner side of the foot, often due to repetitive stress. Lateral tendonitis impacts the tendons on the outer side of the foot, commonly caused by ankle instability. Additionally, dorsal tendonitis occurs on the top of the foot and may develop from wearing tight footwear or overuse. If you have chronic foot or ankle pain, it is suggested that you confer with a chiropodist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Ankle pain is a common symptom of many lower limb problems. If you are experiencing ankle pain, please consult with one of our chiropodists from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

The ankle is composed of a number of muscles, bones, tendons, and ligaments. There are many conditions which may cause ankle pain. 

Causes

  • Ankle strains or sprains
  • Achilles tendon injuries
  • Fractures
  • Bursitis
  • Arthritis
  • Gout
  • Tarsal tunnel syndrome

Symptoms

If you have ankle pain, you may also experience a variety of other symptoms depending on the underlying cause of the pain. Some of these symptoms may include ankle swelling, bruising, redness, numbness or tingling, instability, and difficulty walking.

Diagnosis

The underlying cause of ankle pain can be diagnosed by a chiropodist. Diagnoses are typically made based on your medical history, a physical examination of the affected ankle, and imaging studies such as X-rays. 

Treatment

Treatment for your ankle pain will depend on its underlying cause. Often, the chiropodist will recommend that you rest the affected ankle. You might also need to ice, compress, and elevate the ankle, wear an orthotic device, or take medications to reduce pain and inflammation. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Toronto, ON

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Get Professional Care for a Broken Foot or Ankle

Constant care and regular evaluation are important for a foot or ankle fracture. If left untreated, foot or ankle fractures can worsen over time and create more serious problems.

Don't wait to be examined if you believe you've experienced a foot or ankle fracture.

Causes of Pain in the Big Toe

Big toe pain can stem from various causes, including injuries, structural issues, and inflammatory conditions. Sudden trauma, such as turf toe, occurs when the joint is hyperextended, leading to ligament sprains. Chronic conditions like osteoarthritis and gout can result in joint stiffness, swelling, and pain due to cartilage degeneration or uric acid crystal buildup. Bunions, caused by joint misalignment, often worsen over time, creating discomfort and difficulty wearing certain footwear. Lesser-known conditions like sesamoiditis, involving inflammation of small bones under the big toe, can cause pain when walking. Fractures and sprains are also common sources of toe pain, often resulting from high-impact activities or accidents. A chiropodist can assess the underlying cause of your big toe pain and recommend footwear modifications, orthotics, or methods to reduce pain and restore function. If you are experiencing pain in your big toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for professional advice.

Toe pain is common and can have a variety of causes. Causes can range from a broken toe to an ingrown toenail. Many types of toe pain can be corrected, but any toe pain that inhibits your activities for an extended period should be discussed with a chiropodist. If you suffer from toe pain, please consult with one of our chiropodists from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist can help you maintain the health of your feet.

Common Causes of Toe Pain 

  • Trauma or fracture
  • Cuts, sores, or bruises
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Gout
  • Turf Toe
  • Morton’s neuroma
  • Blisters
  • Corns
  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Ingrown toenails
  • Plantar warts
  • Athlete’s Foot

Symptoms of Toe Pain

  • Toe deformity
  • Burning
  • Numbness
  • Toenail deformity
  • Wart or ulcer
  • Swelling
  • Redness

When to See a Chiropodist

  • Bleeding or severe swelling
  • Trauma, such as a broken bone
  • Discoloration or extreme swelling
  • Inability to bear weight
  • Persistent pain
  • Wounds that won’t heal

Diagnosis of Toe Pain

A chiropodist can conduct a thorough examination of the painful toe or toes in order to determine the best course of treatment. The exam may include assessing the tenderness of the area, taking an X-ray or other diagnostic test, or assessing your gait and range of motion. A discussion of what led to the advanced pain issue may follow. Included will likely be a health history, as well as a list of medications you are taking and other previous injuries you may have sustained.

Treatment for Toe Pain

With such a wide range of possible causes for toe pain, treatment can be varied in scope and length. Sometimes, the chiropodist will recommend lifestyle and activity changes. In cases of trauma or other injuries, X-rays or imaging tests will likely be used to determine the severity of the problem, particularly if any bones have been broken. Treatment may also include injections of pain-relief medication or anti-inflammatory drugs. Certain injuries will require the splinting, bracing, or wrapping of injured toes. Orthotics or special shoes may be prescribed in cases of bone deformities and gait issues. Removal of warts, calluses, and corns may be needed. In other cases, such as with patients who have diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, ongoing treatment may be required to avoid more serious problems. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Toronto, ON

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What You Need to Know About Heel Pain

Heel pain is one of the most frequent reasons people visit a chiropodist. It often starts as a sharp or aching pain in the bottom or back of the heel. One of the leading causes is plantar fasciitis, which results from inflammation of the band of tissue that supports your arch. Other causes include Achilles tendinitis, heel spurs, bursitis, or stress fractures. Heel pain can make walking difficult and affect your daily activities. Wearing unsupportive shoes, standing for long periods of time, or increasing physical activity too quickly can make the problem worse. Early treatment is important and may include stretching exercises, wearing supportive footwear, or custom orthotics. In more serious cases, additional therapies or medical procedures may be recommended. If you have heel pain that does not improve, it is suggested that you see a chiropodist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan.

Heel pain is a common problem that can be caused by a variety of injuries, medical conditions, and other factors. If you suffer from heel pain, please consult with one of our chiropodists from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

When it comes to heel pain, the exact location and type of pain are important to note. Some of the conditions that may cause heel pain include: 

  • Plantar fasciitis - An inflammation of the ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot; it causes a stabbing pain under the heel that is at its worst when taking your first few steps after a long rest and while standing on your tiptoes or climbing stairs
  • Achilles tendonitis - An inflammation of the tendon in the back of the calf; it causes pain in the back of the heel that is at its worst after resting, as well as ankle and calf stiffness, swelling, and tenderness
  • Bone spurs - Bony lumps on the back of the heel bones that cause sharp pain upon first standing up; the pain becomes dull and achy over time
  • Heel fractures - A break or crack in the heel bone that causes pain, swelling, and difficulty walking
  • Retrocalcaneal bursitis - Swelling of the small, fluid-filled sac at the back of the heel bone; it causes pain, swelling, redness, and warmth in the back of the heel
  • Tarsal tunnel syndrome - Compression of the posterior tibial nerve which causes a pins and needles sensation in the heel, foot, and calf 

Your chiropodist will be able to diagnose the underlying cause of your pain and prescribe the right treatments for you. If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Toronto, ON

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How Kickball Can Hurt Kids’ Feet

Kickball is all about running, kicking, and quick movements, but these actions can put stress on a child’s feet. Forceful kicking can bruise the top of the foot, causing pain and swelling. Running on hard surfaces, especially without proper footwear, may lead to heel pain or inflammation in the arch. Fast stops and sudden turns increase the risk of ankle sprains, while awkward landings can result in toe fractures. Repeated bending of the big toe during powerful kicks can cause turf toe, a painful sprain that makes movement difficult. Kids who play frequently may also develop overuse injuries that linger beyond the game. Supportive athletic shoes with good cushioning and grip can help prevent many of these injuries. If a child experiences ongoing pain or swelling from playing kickball, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist who can provide treatment to keep your children active and injury-free.

Injuries to the foot and ankle are very common among athletes. If you have experienced an injury, please consult with one of our chiropodists from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Common Injuries Among Athletes: 

  • Achilles tendon injuries
  • Ankle strains or sprains
  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Fractures
  • Turf toe
  • Joint dislocations
  • Sever’s disease
  • Morton’s neuroma

Symptoms

Symptoms will depend on the cause and severity of the injury. Common symptoms for a foot or ankle injury include pain, swelling, tenderness, bruising, a reduced range of motion, and difficulty bearing weight or walking on the affected foot or ankle. 

Diagnosis

Sports injuries are typically diagnosed after carefully examining the affected foot or ankle. This includes moving the injured area to test its range of motion. Medical history will need to be provided, as well as detailed information about how the injury occurred. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs, may be used to confirm or rule out certain diagnoses. 

Treatment

Just like symptoms, treatment will depend on the type of injury and its severity. Initial treatment for many sports injuries is aimed at controlling inflammation and promoting the healing response. The acronym R.I.C.E is a helpful guide to implement for most acute injuries. This method involves resting, icing, compressing, and elevating the affected foot or ankle. In addition, anti-inflammatory medications may be administered and orthotic devices may be prescribed. For more severe injuries, surgery may be required. Lastly, rehabilitation or physical therapy may be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Toronto, ON

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