Our feet, ankles and legs support the weight of our bodies and allow us to get around - to walk, run, climb stairs, ride a bike , or drive a car. Foot and ankle pain may limit mobility, keeping you from participating in the activities of your life.

Foot pain is often caused by shoes that do not fit properly. Shoes that are too tight squeeze the toes and foot, causing pressure on the skin, bones and joints that make up the foot. Shoes that are too big are loose and allow the foot to rub against the shoe, which may cause calluses and other foot problems. However, bad shoes are not the only source of foot and ankle problems. Genetics, injury, repetitive motion and arthritis can also be causes of serious foot and ankle conditions.

According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, common foot problems include:

• Bunions: A bunion is a painful enlargement of the joint in the big toe. The skin covering the joint becomes swollen and tender, making the area sensitive to pressure. Bunions may be genetic but can also be caused by shoes that do not fit properly.
• Heel Pain: This foot ailment is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, the tissue on the sole of the foot that connects to the heel bone. Pain is felt while walking or standing and is often most intense when getting out of bed.
• Morton's Neuroma: This is caused by a pinched nerve, typically between the third and fourth toes. The result is a neuroma, a build up of extra tissue in the nerve, which causes pain in the toes.
• Hammertoe: A toe deformity that is a permanent bend to one side at the middle toe joint.
• Arthritis of the Foot or Ankle: Common symptoms associated with arthritis in the foot or ankle include swelling, pain, stiffness, tenderness and the inability to easily walk or move the foot or ankle.

Treatment for common foot problems may be as simple as using a shoe insert, or orthosis, or buying a better shoe. More severe cases may require surgery to remove a bony prominence or correct a deformity, for example.

Orthopedics is the area of medicine specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of bone, joint, tissue and nerve disorders, including those in the foot and ankle. Because of this, an orthopedic physician can best diagnose and treat any foot and ankle disorders. 

If you have a foot or ankle problem, talk with your primary care physician about a referral to the Foot & Ankle Center at Valley Orthopedic Associates or call VOA at 425-656-5060.
 
How do the foot and ankle work? Find out by clicking here.