Ankle pain after a twist, fall, or awkward landing can leave you wondering whether you have a sprain or a fracture. A sprained ankle occurs when ligaments, which connect bones and stabilize joints, stretch or tear. A broken ankle involves a crack or break in one or more bones forming the ankle joint. Both injuries can cause swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking, so symptoms alone cannot always confirm which injury has occurred. Prompt podiatric evaluation helps prevent complications and supports proper healing.

Ankle sprains commonly happen when the foot rolls inward or outward, stretching the supporting ligaments beyond their normal limits. Sports, uneven surfaces, and previous ankle sprains increase the risk. Pain often develops around the affected ligament and may worsen when moving the ankle or putting weight on it. Mild sprains may cause manageable discomfort, while severe ligament tears can produce substantial pain and instability. Treatment depends on injury severity and may include rest, compression, and a gradual return to activity.

A broken ankle often results from a fall, collision, or forceful twisting injury. People with osteoporosis or a history of falls may face greater fracture risk. Pain can be intense, particularly when standing or walking, and swelling may develop quickly. However, some fractures cause only moderate discomfort, while severe sprains can be extremely painful. Therefore, pain level alone cannot reliably distinguish these injuries. Deformity, an open wound, or inability to bear weight warrants urgent medical assessment.

A podiatrist will examine the ankle, check tenderness and stability, and order X-rays or other imaging when needed. Sprains may be treated with bracing and activity adjustments, while fractures may need a cast, walking boot, or surgery to restore bone alignment. Avoid putting weight on a suspected sprain or fracture until evaluated. If you have ankle pain after an injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment solutions.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with the foot specialists from Podiatry Associates of Belleville. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Belleville, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe. It develops when the top of the big toe leans toward the second toe, shifting the joint out of alignment. The protruding area can become red, swollen, or tender. Patients can develop stiffness, calluses, or pain when walking. A bunion can make it difficult to find shoes that fit. Inherited foot shape can raise the risk. Flat feet and joint conditions can contribute. Shoes do not cause a bunion, but those with a narrow toe box and high heels can place added pressure on the joint.

A podiatrist can examine the foot, watch how it moves, and assess the position of the big toe. X-rays can show the joint alignment and the severity of the bunion. Treatment focuses on reducing pain and protecting the joint. A podiatrist can recommend shoes with a wide toe box, proper support, and enough depth. Custom orthotics can improve pressure distribution and help the foot function well. Padding or a toe spacer can reduce rubbing inside the shoe. When swelling or irritation is present, the podiatrist can provide guidance on managing those symptoms. These measures cannot remove the bony bump, but they can improve comfort and make activities easier.

Surgery is considered when pain continues despite appropriate care or the bunion greatly limits activity. The procedure chosen depends on the joint, the angle of the bones, and the patient’s overall health. Surgery can realign the toe, remove the enlarged bone, or correct nearby soft tissues. A podiatrist can explain the expected recovery period and discuss the benefits and risks. Early evaluation is useful because bunion pain can change the way a person walks. This can place extra stress on the smaller toes, the ball of the foot, or the opposite leg. If you have foot pain from a bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis appropriate and treatment.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact the foot specialists of Podiatry Associates of Belleville. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Belleville, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.