Ankle Pain Treatment in Pembroke Pines & Plantation
The foot and ankle are highly specialized structures that absorb your body weight and allow you to move. The force on your feet and ankles when walking can reach up to twice your body weight, and even more when running or jumping. With so much daily pressure, the ankle is highly susceptible to injury and wear. At Daniel Bell, DPM - Foot & Ankle Institute, Daniel Bell, DPM diagnoses the cause of your ankle pain and builds a treatment plan that fits your needs and lifestyle.
Understanding the Ankle
The ankle is a complex system of bones, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and joints that work together to provide structure and stability. When any of these components are compromised by injury, overuse, degenerative conditions, or sprains, it can significantly affect how your foot and ankle move and function.
Common Causes of Ankle Pain
- Ankle sprains – stretched or torn ligaments from rolling the ankle
- Chronic ankle instability – repeated giving way after previous sprains
- Achilles tendonitis – pain at the back of the ankle from tendon overuse
- Fractures – breaks in the ankle or foot bones from trauma or stress
- Arthritis – cartilage wear or inflammation in the ankle joint
- Flat feet – arch collapse that strains tendons along the inside of the ankle
- Tendonitis of the posterior tibial or peroneal tendons
- Nerve entrapment such as tarsal tunnel syndrome
When to Seek Care
Seek prompt evaluation if you cannot bear weight, notice significant swelling or bruising, see a visible deformity, or have pain that persists for more than a few days. Ongoing ankle pain should never be ignored, as untreated injuries can lead to long-term instability and arthritis.
Diagnosis and Personalized Treatment
Dr. Bell is highly trained in diagnosing and treating all aspects of foot and ankle pain and injury. After a thorough examination, and imaging when needed, we create a customized treatment plan that may include:
- Rest, ice, compression, and elevation
- Bracing, taping, or a walking boot
- Physical therapy and strengthening
- Anti-inflammatory medication or injections
- Custom orthotics to improve alignment
- Shockwave therapy and RPW therapy for chronic tendon pain
- Foot and ankle surgery for severe injuries, instability, or arthritis
Athletes benefit from our sports medicine approach, which focuses on a safe return to play. Explore other conditions we treat, including general foot pain.
Ankle Pain FAQs
What is the most common cause of ankle pain?
Ankle sprains are the most common cause, but tendonitis, arthritis, fractures, and instability are also frequent sources of ankle pain.
When should I see a podiatrist for ankle pain?
See a podiatrist if you cannot bear weight, have significant swelling or bruising, or if pain lasts more than a few days.
Is it a sprain or a fracture?
Sprains and fractures can look similar. An exam and X-rays are often needed to tell the difference and guide treatment.
Can flat feet cause ankle pain?
Yes. Flat feet can strain the tendons along the inside of the ankle and lead to pain and swelling.
What helps ankle pain at home?
Rest, ice, compression, and elevation can help in the first days after an injury, but persistent pain should be professionally evaluated.
Can ankle pain be treated without surgery?
Yes. Most ankle pain improves with bracing, therapy, orthotics, medication, and acoustic wave therapies.
Why does my ankle hurt in the morning?
Morning ankle pain and stiffness are common with arthritis and tendon problems such as Achilles tendonitis.
Find Lasting Relief From Ankle Pain
Get an accurate diagnosis and a plan that works for you. Call (954) 942-5005 - Pembroke Pines Office or (954) 942-5005 - Plantation Office or request an appointment online with Dr. Bell.