Which types of ankle injuries do podiatrists treat?
Podiatrists have advanced training in using modern tools and techniques to diagnose and treat all types of ankle injuries.
The goal of podiatric care is to relieve pain and promote proper healing while rebuilding your ankle strength to lower your risk of ankle injuries in the future. Podiatrists regularly treat the following types of ankle injuries and conditions:
- Instability, possibly from a prior ankle injury
- Arthritis, including gout and osteoarthritis
- Cartilage injury or deterioration
- Sprains and fractures
- Nerve issues
- Tendinitis
- Bursitis
Ankle injuries are among the most common types of sports injuries, although anyone can struggle with an ankle injury just from a simple fall or misstep.
When should I see a podiatrist for an ankle injury?
It’s important to have a comprehensive ankle evaluation at Ohio Foot and Ankle Center as soon as a sports injury or other type of trauma occurs, or if your ankle is causing pain on a regular basis. The leading podiatry team encourages you to book a visit as soon as possible if you:
- Notice swelling or bruising
- Have redness or warmth in the area
- Can’t bear weight on your ankle
- Feel like your ankle is going to give way (instability)
Ohio Foot and Ankle Center provides on-site digital X-ray imaging at each practice location. This way, your podiatrist can often diagnose you on the spot and quickly get you started on treatment.
How does a podiatrist treat ankle injuries?
One of the most important components of ankle treatment is immobilization. It’s important to wear a walking boot, brace, or cast to keep your ankle stable as it heals. Your dedicated podiatrist at Ohio Foot and Ankle Center might also recommend:
- Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE therapy)
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory injections
- Corticosteroid injections
- Custom orthotics
- Physical therapy
Surgery may be necessary if you have a complex ankle injury, including severe bone fractures. Your podiatrist at Ohio Foot and Ankle Center can use internal braces to correctly realign bones to help them heal. They can repair damaged joints, ligaments, cartilage, or other components, too.
The podiatrists even specialize in stem cell grafts to promote faster healing and reduce scarring.* Ohio Foot and Ankle Center also provides comprehensive sports medicine care and works to help you get back in the game as quickly as possible.
If you have any kind of ankle pain or injury, contact Ohio Foot and Ankle Center before your condition worsens. Click on the online scheduler or call the office nearest you to book an appointment.
* Individual results may vary.
