Common Foot & Ankle Conditions We Treat
Arthritis & Joint Degeneration
Degenerative foot and ankle conditions develop over time as cartilage wears down or joint surfaces become damaged. These issues often cause stiffness, swelling, pain with activity, and reduced mobility. Early evaluation can help slow progression and preserve joint function. Conditions include:
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Ankle Arthritis / Ankle Joint Degeneration
Ankle arthritis develops when cartilage in the joint begins to wear down. This can lead to stiffness, swelling, loss of motion, and increasing difficulty with walking and activity. In more advanced cases, patients may eventually be candidates for ankle replacement or ankle fusion.
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Foot & Ankle Cartilage Injuries / Lesions
Cartilage injuries in the foot or ankle joint can lead to stiffness, swelling, catching, or discomfort with motion and weight-bearing. These injuries may develop after trauma or repetitive stress.
Tendon Disorders
Tendon disorders affect the structures that help move and stabilize the foot and ankle. When tendons become irritated, inflamed, or overworked, they can cause discomfort, swelling, weakness, and limitations with walking, exercise, or repetitive activity. Conditions include:
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Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles tendonitis affects the tendon at the back of the ankle and heel. It often causes tightness, swelling, and discomfort with walking, running, jumping, or climbing stairs.
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Ankle Tendonitis
Ankle tendonitis occurs when the tendons around the ankle become irritated or inflamed, often from overuse or repetitive strain. Symptoms may include tenderness, swelling, and discomfort with movement.
Fractures & Acute Injuries
Fractures and acute injuries of the foot and ankle often happen suddenly during sports, falls, twists, or other trauma. Conditions include:
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Ankle Fractures
Ankle fractures involve a break in one or more bones around the ankle joint. These injuries can cause swelling, bruising, instability, and difficulty bearing weight.
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Foot Fractures
Foot fractures can affect the toes, forefoot, midfoot, or hindfoot. Depending on the location, symptoms may include swelling, tenderness, bruising, and difficulty standing or walking.
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Heel Fractures
Heel fractures are more serious injuries involving the heel bone and may significantly affect walking, weight-bearing, and overall foot function.
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Ankle Sprains
Ankle sprains happen when the ligaments are stretched or torn, often after rolling or twisting the ankle. They can range from mild to severe and may lead to swelling, bruising, and instability.
Ligament Injuries & Instability
Ligament injuries can affect the stability and support of the ankle, especially after rolling or twisting injuries. Conditions include:
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Ankle Ligament Injuries
Ankle ligament injuries can occur during sports, falls, or sudden twists. These injuries may affect support and stability in the ankle joint.
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Chronic Ankle Instability
Chronic ankle instability develops when the ankle repeatedly feels weak, loose, or prone to giving out, often after multiple sprains or incomplete healing.
Heel Conditions
Heel conditions are a common source of foot and ankle symptoms and can affect comfort with standing, walking, and activity. These problems often develop from strain, irritation, or structural changes around the heel and may become more noticeable with repetitive use. Conditions include:
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Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel symptoms. It develops when the plantar fascia becomes irritated, often causing sharp discomfort with the first steps in the morning or after rest.
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Heel Spurs
Heel spurs are bony growths that can develop on the heel bone and may contribute to irritation and ongoing heel symptoms.
Deformities
Foot deformities can change the alignment and mechanics of the foot, affecting balance, shoe fit, and walking comfort. Over time, these structural issues may lead to irritation, pressure points, and increasing difficulty with activity. Conditions include:
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Bunions
Bunions are bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe. They can lead to swelling, irritation in shoes, and progressive toe misalignment.
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Foot Deformities
Structural foot deformities can affect alignment, balance, comfort, and the way pressure is distributed through the foot during walking and activity.
Why Diagnosis Matters
The foot and ankle are made up of many bones, joints, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage structures working together to support balance, mobility, and daily movement. When one part of that system is affected by injury, degeneration, inflammation, or deformity, it can lead to a wide range of foot and ankle conditions that may interfere with comfort and function. A precise diagnosis helps guide the most effective treatment plan.
At Jordan-Young Institute, your evaluation may include:
- a review of your symptoms and medical history
- a physical examination
- assessment of alignment, balance, motion, and stability
- X-rays or advanced imaging when needed
Ready for Answers Relief?
If you are dealing with a foot or ankle condition, the specialists at Jordan-Young Institute are here to help. Call or request an appointment online to get started.
- Request an Appointment
- Call Now: (757) 490-4802
If you're ready to move from symptoms to solutions, explore our foot and ankle treatment page.
