Foot and ankle pain is a common source of frustration because it often involves small bones, ligaments, and/or tendons, all of which can heal at somewhat unpredictable rates. A little patience is in order. But what can you do when your patience starts to wear thin because your pain doesn’t feel like it’s gotten any better over time? This article will offer some guidance.
The most common causes of foot or ankle pain are an injury or overuse. Foot or ankle pain caused by an injury occurs suddenly and includes conditions such as sprains and fractures.
What should I do after a foot or ankle injury?
If your foot or ankle pain is the result of an injury, in the moments immediately following doctors recommend treating it with the tried-and-true acronym RICE, which stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation.
Light compression and keeping your injured foot or ankle elevated above the level of your heart will help minimize swelling. She says a heating pad can make the injury feel better initially, but because it opens blood vessels in the injured area, it can ultimately make the inflammation worse. Ice, on the other hand, will constrict the blood vessels, reducing inflammation.
Acetaminophen and ibuprofen can temporarily relieve discomfort. But first, make sure it’s safe to take with any medications you’ve been prescribed or pre-existing medical conditions that you have.
When should I see a doctor for my foot or ankle injury?
Many foot and ankle injuries may be treated at home, but there are some symptoms that require immediate medical attention, they include:
• A significant deformity. Compare your injured ankle or foot to the other one. If there’s a clear difference in appearance, seek medical attention.
• Any large open wounds or significant bleeding
• You’re unable to put any weight on your injured foot or ankle
Otherwise, if the pain hasn’t lessened after about three to five days of treating your injury at home, doctors recommend seeing your primary care physician. They may order x-rays and, depending on what they show, refer you to a specialist.
Managing Foot or Ankle Pain Caused by Overuse
Foot and ankle pain can also occur slowly over time as a result of overuse and include conditions such as Achilles tendinitis and stress fractures.
The hallmark of an overuse foot or ankle injury is an aching pain that comes on gradually. You may start to notice discomfort in the area of the injury during certain activities. Eventually, it will become more persistent. Achilles tendonitis, for example, may be agitated only during runs or long walks initially. Left unchecked, running will become impossible, and simple everyday activities, like making dinner, will feel like they’re straining the tendon.
What should I do at the first sign of foot or ankle pain caused by overuse?
Similar to the advice above for an injury, treat the initial pain with RICE and acetaminophen or ibuprofen. In some cases, overuse injuries will heal on their own with at-home treatment and time off from activities that put stress on the injured area.
Exactly how much time off will depend on the type and severity of the injury. In general, you can return to light activity that involves the injured area if you haven’t experienced pain there, without the use of ibuprofen or acetaminophen, for a week. If, after another week, you’re still pain-free, you can gradually ramp up your intensity. But be honest with your self-assessments. If you feel any discomfort, limit your activity and continue resting.
When should I see a doctor for my foot or ankle pain caused by overuse?
The vast majority of overuse foot or ankle injuries do not require immediate medical attention. The exception is those that escalate to the point of causing any of the symptoms listed above for an injury that would prompt urgent treatment.
Aside from these instances, the guidance is similar to that of a foot or ankle injury: If the pain hasn’t diminished or resolved after about three to five days of treating it at home, see your primary care physician. They will help address your concerns by performing a thorough examination, obtaining x-rays, and initiating a consultation/referral to an orthopaedic foot and ankle specialist.
Conclusion
Foot and ankle pain can be a frustrating and persistent issue, whether stemming from an acute injury or the gradual effects of overuse. Understanding the nature of your pain and the appropriate responses is crucial in managing and alleviating discomfort. The RICE method—Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation—serves as an effective first step in treating injuries, while self-care strategies can help address overuse-related pain. However, if your symptoms fail to improve after a few days or if you experience any concerning signs, seeking medical attention is essential. A healthcare professional can provide a comprehensive evaluation, guide you through appropriate treatment options, and help you safely return to your normal activities. Prioritizing foot and ankle health not only enhances mobility but also contributes to overall well-being, allowing you to stay active and engaged in your daily life.
