Foot and Ankle Pain Treatment in New Jersey
The foot and ankle form a complex system that supports the body, enables movement, and absorbs impact. Foot and ankle pain is common, particularly among active adults and those with certain risk factors such as obesity, previous injuries or jobs requiring prolonged standing.
Foot and ankle pain can significantly affect mobility and quality of life. At RWJBarnabas Health, we understand the complexity of foot and ankle conditions — from general discomfort to acute injuries — and the need for specialized care.
Our orthopedic specialists and podiatrists in New Jersey deliver tailored care, ensuring thorough diagnosis and extensive treatment options to enable the most effective recovery from foot and ankle issues. Whether through conservative management or advanced surgical techniques, our goal is to return you to pain-free movement as safely and quickly as possible.
Types of Foot and Ankle Injuries We Treat
Injuries in this area can stem from chronic conditions, acute incidents or lifestyle factors such as:
- Sprains and strains. Stretching or tearing of ligaments can lead to ankle sprains while overstretching muscles can cause strains.
- Fractures. Broken bones in the foot or ankle can result from impact, falls, or overuse.
- Bunions. A painful bony bump forms on the joint at the base of the big toe, often caused by progressive deformity or pressure from ill-fitting shoes.
- Plantar fasciitis. Inflammation of the band of tissue that runs from the heel to the toes can cause heel pain.
- Achilles injury. A range of problems related to the Achilles tendon, such as tendonitis or tendinosis.
- Arthritis. Degenerative conditions affect the joints in the foot and ankle and cause pain and stiffness.
Ankle and Foot Pain Causes
Many factors can contribute to the risk of foot and ankle injuries. Understanding these can be instrumental in preventing them and maintaining overall foot and ankle health:
- Age. Aging can lead to changes in the foot structure, decreased bone density, and reduced flexibility, increasing the risk of injuries.
- Overuse. Activities that involve prolonged walking, running or standing can overwork the foot and ankle structures, leading to injuries such as stress fractures or tendinitis.
- Excessive weight. Extra body weight increases the stress on the foot and ankle joints, leading to pain and degenerative conditions like arthritis.
- Lack of muscle flexibility or strength. Inflexible or weak muscles in the foot and ankle can reduce support for these joints, making them more prone to injury.
- Sports participation. Sports with sudden stops, jumps or direction changes can put the foot and ankle at high risk for sprains, strains and fractures.
- Improper footwear. Shoes that don't provide adequate support or fit poorly can contribute to the risk of foot and ankle injuries.
- Previous injury. A history of foot or ankle injuries can lead to a greater chance of future injuries due to weakened structures or improper healing.
- Genetics. Certain genetic predispositions, such as flat arches or an abnormal gait, can increase the likelihood of foot and ankle problems.
- Occupational hazards. Jobs that involve heavy lifting or ladder work can increase the risk of ankle sprains or fractures.
- Certain medical conditions. Diseases like diabetes or peripheral neuropathy can affect foot health, leading to an increased risk of injuries.
Recognizing and modifying these risk factors are key to preventing foot and ankle injuries.
Foot and Ankle Pain Symptoms
Foot and ankle conditions may involve symptoms such as:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Stiffness
- A sensation of instability
- Audible signs like a snap or pop, which can indicate issues ranging from inflammation to ligament tears or fractures
Foot and Ankle Pain Diagnosis
To diagnose an injury of the foot or ankle, our orthopedic specialists and podiatrists will typically conduct a comprehensive evaluation, including:
- Medical history. Review any previous injuries, current symptoms and overall health condition.
- Palpation. Examining the foot and ankle for areas of tenderness, swelling, or deformity.
- Range of motion tests. Moving the foot and ankle to assess mobility and pinpoint pain.
- Gait analysis. Watching the patient walk or run to assess how the foot and ankle function.
- Imaging tests. X-rays for bone injuries, MRIs for soft tissue injuries, CT scans for complex bone injuries, and ultrasounds for real-time imaging of the joint in motion.
Our Treatment Approach
Moving comfortably on your feet is essential for a fulfilling, active lifestyle. Our approach to managing foot and ankle pain encompasses a range of strategies:
- Customized care. Treatment plans crafted to meet the specific needs of each patient.
- Advanced treatment options. Incorporation of both progressive nonsurgical treatments and state-of-the-art surgical procedures.
- Expert medical team. Our orthopedic specialists bring extensive experience to each case, aiming for successful outcomes.
Patients at RWJBarnabas Health experience a supportive journey from the onset of foot and ankle pain through to complete recovery. Our facilities are equipped with the latest technology, and our team includes highly skilled orthopedic specialists, podiatrists and sports medicine experts, ensuring a comprehensive treatment experience.
Foot and Ankle Treatments
Treatments for foot and ankle injuries are carefully tailored to the severity and type of each condition, with a spectrum of options from conservative to surgical.
- RICE protocol. Rest, ice, compression and elevation (RICE) are the first steps in addressing acute injuries to reduce pain and swelling.
- Immobilization. Braces, casts or boots may be used to stabilize the injury and aid in the healing process.
- Physical therapy. Customized exercise programs are designed to strengthen the muscles around the foot and ankle and increase flexibility.
- Medication. Anti-inflammatory drugs, both prescription and over-the-counter, can help manage pain and inflammation. In some cases, corticosteroid injections are administered for more severe inflammation.
- Surgery. In some cases, surgery may be indicated to alleviate foot or ankle pain.
Foot and Ankle Surgery
Our skilled foot and ankle surgeons are prepared to conduct minimally invasive procedures to correct the issue when conservative measures are insufficient. Procedures we offer include arthroscopic surgery, tendon repair and reconstructive surgeries. Additionally, we are at the forefront of offering innovative therapies such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections to enhance healing and expedite the return to normal function.
Orthopedic Rehabilitation and Recovery
The path to recovery from foot and ankle injuries can vary. Some might find relief in just weeks. Others, however, especially those who have undergone surgery, may require several months of dedicated orthopedic rehabilitation. We design tailored rehabilitation programs to ensure optimal outcomes and a rapid return to everyday activities.
Rehabilitation plays a critical role in the healing process. Our team of orthopedic specialists crafts personalized recovery plans that can include:
- Progressive weight-bearing exercises. Incrementally rebuild strength and provide support to the foot and ankle.
- Stretching and strengthening routines. Enhance the range of motion and reinforce muscle support in the affected area.
- Gait and balance training. Assist in regaining mobility and reducing the risk of future injuries.
Expert Care for Foot and Ankle Pain
If you're having pain in your foot or ankle, RWJBarnabas Health offers a premier medical services with award-winning care and board-certified orthopedic surgeons and podiatrists in New Jersey. We provide cutting-edge technology critical for precise diagnosis and effective treatment of foot and ankle injuries.
Contact Us
Neglecting foot or ankle pain can lead to worsening conditions. Prompt attention from our orthopedic and podiatric experts can prevent complications and enhance the healing process. Request an appointment today.
