Foot & Ankle

Evaluation

The first step is to have your foot or ankle evaluated by a physician. The physician will assess your symptoms and conduct a physical exam to evaluate your foot or ankle’s strength, stability, and range of motion. X-rays, MRIs (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), or other diagnostic tests may be necessary to identify internal injuries. Based on the evaluation, your physician will determine if surgery is needed or if non-surgical treatments, such as exercises (performed at home or with the guidance of a physical therapy facility), would improve your foot or ankle’s function.

OTHER TESTS THAT MIGHT BE PERFORMED INCLUDE:

Tinel’s Test – Your physician may tap on specific areas of your foot or ankle to check for pain, tingling, or numbness, which could indicate nerve irritation or damage.

Ankle Compression Test – Your physician might apply pressure to different areas of the ankle to identify pain or instability caused by ligament or joint issues.

Range of Motion Assessment – Your physician may ask you to move your foot or ankle in various directions to evaluate flexibility and detect any stiffness or discomfort.

EMG (Electromyogram) – Electrodes may be used to assess nerve pathways and muscle function in the foot and ankle. This test is painless and helps determine if nerve-related issues are contributing to your symptoms.

Non-Surgical Treatment

BOOT OR CAST & MEDICATION

Your physician may recommend using a cast or boot to immobilize your foot or ankle. This helps to prevent movement that could aggravate your symptoms, promoting healing by keeping the area stable. The cast or boot may be worn during the day and/or at night, depending on your physician’s recommendation. Immobilizing the foot or ankle will reduce stress on the injured area, allowing tissues to heal more effectively. Additionally, your physician may prescribe medications to manage pain and inflammation during your recovery. Be sure to follow the prescribed dosage and consult your physician before exceeding the recommended amount, as doing so can be dangerous.

CORTISONE INJECTIONS

Your physician may recommend cortisone injections to reduce inflammation in your foot or ankle. Depending on the severity of the inflammation, some patients may only need a single injection, while others may require additional treatments to relieve ongoing pain and swelling.

REGENERATIVE MEDICINE INJECTIONS

Regenerative medicine is a non-surgical treatment option that can help reduce pain and inflammation in the foot and ankle. This therapy uses your body’s natural healing properties by concentrating growth factors and healing components from your blood and injecting them into the affected area. Regenerative medicine can promote faster healing and alleviate symptoms, especially in cases of tendonitis, ligament injuries, and arthritis. For more information on regenerative medicine options, visit us at Rockwall Regenerative Medicine.

EXERCISE AND PHYSICAL THERAPY

Physical therapy and/or home exercises may be recommended by your physician. These exercises are designed to gradually strengthen your foot or ankle and improve its range of motion. The speed of your recovery will largely depend on how committed you are to following your physician’s recommendations. Additionally, your physician may suggest using a brace or boot to protect the foot or ankle while it strengthens.