Ankle pain can be a common ailment, but it’s essential to know when it’s time to seek professional help. Ignoring ankle pain or discomfort can lead to more severe problems and even long-term damage.
In this article, we will discuss the signs that indicate it’s time to see an ankle specialist. Here are five things you should not leave unattended:
1. Chronic Pain or Discomfort
If you’re experiencing chronic ankle pain or discomfort that doesn’t go away with rest or over-the-counter pain relievers, it’s time to see an ankle specialist.
Continual pain or discomfort may be a sign of underlying damage or a serious condition.
2. Swelling and Bruising
Swelling and bruising around the ankle joint are often signs of an ankle sprain or fracture.
If you’ve experienced a recent injury that’s caused swelling and bruising and the symptoms haven’t subsided, it’s time to seek medical attention.
3. Difficulty Bearing Weight
If you have difficulty bearing weight on your foot, it could be a sign of a severe ankle injury. This symptom is especially concerning if it occurs after a fall or accident, as it could indicate a fracture or other significant damage.
4. Restricted Range of Motion
It’s time to see an ankle specialist if you are:
- Having difficulty moving your ankle
- Experiencing a restricted range of motion
These symptoms could indicate tendonitis, a sprain, or another condition that requires professional treatment.
5. Unexplained Pain
If you’re experiencing unexplained ankle pain, it’s crucial to seek professional advice from an ankle specialist.
Unexplained pain could be a symptom of a more severe condition, such as arthritis or nerve damage.
Why You Should Seek Professional Help
Delaying treatment for ankle pain or discomfort can lead to more severe problems down the road. If a condition goes untreated, it can cause long-term damage or even lead to chronic pain and disability.
Seeking professional help early on can help prevent further complications and put you on the path to recovery.
When to See an Ankle Specialist
It’s time to see an ankle specialist if you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms or have had a recent injury to your ankle.
Ankle specialists, such as podiatrists, have specialized training and expertise in treating ankle injuries and conditions.
To help you recover and get back to your daily activities, they can provide:
- A comprehensive evaluation
- An accurate diagnosis
- A personalized treatment plan
Common Injuries and Conditions Ankle Specialists Can Help With
Ankle specialists have the expertise to diagnose and treat a variety of ankle injuries and conditions. Here are some of the most common issues that ankle specialists can help with:
Ankle Sprains
An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments supporting your ankle stretch or tear. This happens often due to a sudden twist or turn.
Ankle specialists can assess the severity of the sprain and recommend treatment, which may include rest, ice, compression, elevation, and physical therapy.
Ankle Fractures
An ankle fracture occurs when one or more bones in the ankle joint break. Ankle fractures can range from mild to severe and may require immobilization, surgery, or both to heal properly.
Ankle specialists can evaluate the extent of the injury and determine the best course of treatment.
Tendinitis
Tendinitis is an inflammation of a tendon, which connects muscle to bone.
Ankle tendinitis usually affects the Achilles tendon, which runs from the calf muscle to the heel bone.
Ankle specialists can diagnose tendinitis with a physical examination and imaging tests and may recommend:
- Rest
- Ice
- Physical therapy
- Medication
Arthritis
Arthritis is inflammation of one or more joints in the body and can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling. Ankle arthritis can occur due to wear and tear, injury, or an autoimmune disease.
Specialists can diagnose arthritis with imaging tests and recommend treatment, which may include:
- Physical therapy
- Medication
- Surgery
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the plantar fascia, which is a thick band of fibrous tissue spanning across the bottom of the foot.
The condition can cause pain and discomfort in the heel and arch of the foot.
Ankle specialists can diagnose plantar fasciitis with a physical examination and imaging tests and may recommend rest, physical therapy, medication, or other treatments.
The Best Ankle Specialist in San Antonio, TX
Ankle pain and injuries can be frustrating and affect your quality of life, so it’s best to not ignore them. Seeking professional help early on can make all the difference in preventing further complications or long-term damage. Consult with an ankle specialist if you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms or have concerns about your ankle health. They can diagnose and treat a variety of ankle injuries and conditions and help you get back to your daily activities.
Are you in search of the best ankle specialist in San Antonio, TX? If so, don’t look further than the dedicated and skilled podiatrists at The Podiatry Group of South Texas. You may reach out to our friendly staff at the office nearest to you. You can also book a visit with the best podiatrist near you using our online request form.
We look forward to serving you!
