Ankle pain can interfere with walking, exercise, and everyday activities that require movement. The ankle connects the leg to the foot and allows the foot to move up, down, and from side-to-side. Pain can develop suddenly after an injury or result from a condition. An ankle sprain is one possible cause. Arthritis and tendon irritation can also cause discomfort. Other causes include fractures, nerve compression, and poor alignment of the foot or leg. The cause can affect how long symptoms last and how severe they become.

Ankle pain can occur alone or appear with swelling, stiffness, and redness. Warmth surrounding the joint can also develop. These signs can help identify what is affecting the ankle. Sports that involve jumping or quick changes in direction can increase the chance of an ankle injury. Basketball and volleyball are examples. Wearing  shoes that lack proper support can also place added stress on the feet and ankles. Ankle instability can develop after a previous injury and make the joint feel weak or unreliable when standing or walking.

A podiatrist can examine the ankle, review how the injury occurred, and assess the way the foot moves. This evaluation can help identify whether pain comes from a sprain, arthritis, or another problem. Treatment can include a brace, splint, or orthotic insert depending on the cause and severity. Orthotic inserts are devices placed inside shoes to improve support and alignment. More serious ankle problems can require surgery. A podiatrist can also guide a patient toward safe movement as the ankle recovers. Proper diagnosis is important because different causes of ankle pain determine the approach to care. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Pima Foot and Ankle Surgery. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A foot stress fracture is a tiny crack in a bone caused by repeated strain. Unlike a sudden break from one hard impact, it develops when the bone cannot recover between activities. Runners and dancers can face a higher risk of stress fractures. A fast increase in exercise can also be a factor. Shoes that lack proper support and hard training surfaces can add to the strain. Stress fractures usually affect bones in the front or middle of the foot. Pain may begin as a mild ache during activity, then become sharper.

Other signs include swelling, tenderness, and pain when pressing one spot. The discomfort can ease with rest, but often returns when the foot carries weight. Some patients also notice bruising or trouble walking. These symptoms deserve attention because continuing activity can make the crack worse. A podiatrist will ask how the pain began and examine the sore area. The doctor may order an X-ray or other type of digital imaging to diagnose the injury. A scan can help to confirm the extent and severity of the injury, as well as guide treatment.

Treatment depends on the bone involved and how serious the crack is. A podiatrist can order a walking boot, cast, or supportive device to protect the injured area. This foot doctor can also recommend activity changes and create a plan for a gradual return to exercise. Follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to check healing and adjust the plan. Most stress fractures heal without surgery when they receive early care and enough protection. A podiatrist can also review foot structure, training habits, and shoe support to lower the chance of another injury. If you have symptoms of a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Pima Foot and Ankle Surgery. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Flat feet occur when the arches of the feet are lower than usual or are not visible while standing. Many children naturally have flat feet during early development, but their arches often form as they grow. In some cases, the arches either do not develop fully or flatten later in life. While many people with flat feet have no symptoms, others may experience foot pain, fatigue, or discomfort after standing or walking for long periods of time. Some individuals also notice swelling along the inside of the ankle or changes in the way they walk. Because flat feet can affect foot function differently from person to person, a professional evaluation is important to determine whether treatment is necessary.

Flat feet can place stress on the muscles, tendons, and joints that support the feet. This added strain may contribute to heel pain, ankle discomfort, or problems with overall alignment when walking. In children, most flexible flat feet do not require treatment unless they are painful, stiff, or interfere with normal activities. A comprehensive podiatry examination helps evaluate foot structure, flexibility, and walking mechanics while identifying any underlying conditions that may be contributing to symptoms. Early assessment is especially important when pain, limited movement, or changes in mobility are present, allowing appropriate care to begin before symptoms become more significant.

A podiatrist specializes in evaluating flat feet in both children and adults and determining whether the condition is affecting foot health or daily function. Professional care focuses on relieving pain, improving mobility, and supporting healthy foot mechanics based on each patient's individual needs. Treatment recommendations are guided by symptoms, physical findings, and overall activity level rather than the appearance of the arch alone. Regular podiatry visits also help monitor changes and identify new concerns early. If you or your child has persistent foot pain, difficulty walking, or concerns about flat feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Pima Foot and Ankle Surgery. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Custom foot orthotics are specialized shoe inserts designed to support the feet and improve alignment during movement. Unlike over-the-counter insoles, these devices are tailored to fit the unique contours of each foot. Functional foot orthotics focus on correcting abnormal motion, while custom-molded total contact insoles provide full-surface cushioning and pressure control. These orthotics are commonly used to manage a wide range of foot conditions and improve overall biomechanics.

Common symptoms that may lead to the use of orthotics include arch pain, heel tenderness and swelling. Fatigue after standing or walking is another factor. Misalignment in the feet can also lead to discomfort in the knees, hips, and lower back. Risk factors include poor footwear choices, repetitive stress from physical activity, and excess body weight. Structural abnormalities, such as flat feet or high arches, are additional risks. Individuals who spend long hours on their feet are especially at risk for developing chronic foot issues.

Different types of orthotics serve different purposes. Functional foot orthotics are designed to correct movement patterns and improve stability. Custom molded total contact insoles focus on distributing pressure evenly and enhancing shock-absorption. These devices help reduce strain on muscles and joints while supporting natural foot motion. They also play an important role in improving balance and reducing the risk of injury during daily activities.

The benefits of orthotics extend beyond comfort. They can improve posture, enhance mobility, and reduce the likelihood of long-term complications. Proper support allows the body to move more efficiently and with less strain. Orthotics are a practical solution for managing both acute and chronic foot conditions. If you have symptoms that may require orthotics, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for guidance on proper support and treatment options.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists from Pima Foot and Ankle Surgery. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.