Should you turn to a podiatrist for treatment?
When it comes to injuries, the ankles are one of the most vulnerable areas. If you stepped off the curb the wrong way, are noticing pain during your morning run or experienced a traumatic impact to the ankle, it’s essential that you don’t just try to handle it yourself. Most ankle injuries require care from our Brooksville, FL, podiatrist Dr. Charles Chapel.
Why Am I in Pain?
There are many reasons why you may be dealing with ankle pain. Common causes include,
- Achilles tendon tear or rupture
- Ankle sprain
- Stress fracture
- Bursitis
- Flat feet
- Arthritis
If you’ve been in an accident or sports-related incident, you know what’s causing your ankle pain. However, sometimes it isn’t as easy to tell. That’s when it’s worth it to schedule an evaluation with our Brooksville, FL, podiatrist. Dr. Chapel can perform a physical assessment, ask questions about your symptoms and then decide whether imaging tests could rule out certain conditions or provide a definitive diagnosis.
Can I Treat Ankle Pain Myself?
If your pain is minor, you may try to ease symptoms at home using the RICE method—rest, ice, compression and elevation. You can also take NSAIDs to alleviate pain and swelling. Of course, if you are dealing with an injury or suspect that you may have arthritis, it’s essential that you have a foot and ankle specialist evaluate your ankle.
So, when should I see a podiatrist about my ankle pain?
How will a podiatrist treat my ankle pain?
Once our Brooksville, FL, podiatrist has determined the cause of your ankle pain, he can map out a treatment plan that caters to you and your condition. Some common ways to treat ankle pain include,
- Splints or bracing
- Medications that manage the source of the pain (e.g., gout; arthritis)
- Custom orthotics (aka shoe inserts)
- Physical therapy
- Steroid injections
- Laser therapy – Class IV
With more severe injuries, our team may recommend ankle surgery to repair a damaged ligament or tendon, correct deformities or other problems, alleviate pain or replace a severely damaged joint.
Our Brooksville, FL, podiatrist Dr. Chapel and the Chapel Podiatry team proudly serve the Homosassa, Hudson, and Spring Hill, FL areas. If you are dealing with ankle pain, call us at (352) 684-1444 to schedule an immediate appointment.