Ankle Pain Specialist
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Bay Breeze Foot & Ankle Specialists
Dr. Maurice W. Aiken, DPM
Podiatry & Alternative Medicine located in Dunedin, FL
If you twist your ankle or step down in an awkward way while working or playing sports, it’s important to receive treatment. Without early diagnosis and intervention, you might experience more serious issues. At Bay Breeze Foot & Ankle Specialists, board-certified foot and ankle surgeon Maurice W. Aiken, DPM, boasts years of experience diagnosing and treating ankle pain. To make an appointment at the practice in Dunedin, Florida, call the office today or schedule online.
Ankle Pain Q & A
What is ankle pain?
Ankle pain refers to any swelling or stiffness that affects any part of the ankle — the joint that connects your foot to your leg and contains three bones. Often, ankle pain occurs due to physical activity or overuse. In the majority of instances, it responds to conservative treatments like ice, rest, and over-the-counter pain medication.
What causes ankle pain?
At Bay Breeze Foot & Ankle Specialists, Dr. Aiken treats ankle pain caused by:
- Bursitis
- Arthritis
- Fractures
- Tendonitis
- Flatfoot
- Gout
Dr. Aiken also treats ankle pain caused by sports-related injuries like sprains, strains, or joint dislocation.
When should I visit a podiatrist about ankle pain?
It’s important to make an appointment at Bay Breeze Foot & Ankle Specialists if your ankle pain:
- Is severe and doesn’t respond to at-home treatment
- Occurs suddenly alongside swelling
- Occurs with a fever
- Prevents you from standing or walking
You should also make an appointment with Dr. Aiken if your pain prevents you from rotating or moving your ankle from side to side.
How is ankle pain diagnosed?
To diagnose ankle pain, Dr. Aiken reviews your health history and asks about your symptoms, including when they first started and if any activities like working out or standing up for extended periods make them worse.
Afterward, Dr. Aiken examines your ankle, testing its strength, flexibility, and range of motion. If a physical exam doesn’t provide enough information about the source of your pain, Dr. Aiken might order additional tests like X-rays, an MRI, or a CT scan.
How is ankle pain treated?
Treatment of ankle pain depends on the cause and the severity of your symptoms. Dr. Aiken might recommend:
At-home treatment
If your ankle pain occurs due to a minor injury, you might benefit from rest, ice, compression, and elevation. When combined with over-the-counter pain medication and light-stretching, these measures may provide significant relief.
Custom orthotics
Custom orthotics are prescription devices that support the unique structure of your foot. If your ankle pain occurs due to a structural abnormality, like flat feet or high arches, Dr. Aiken might recommend orthotics.
Erchonia® cold laser therapy
Erchonia cold laser therapy uses low levels of pulsed light energy to reduce inflammation and encourage your body’s natural healing process. When your cells absorb cold energy, your body responds with a physiological reaction that promotes regeneration.
If you regularly experience ankle pain, don’t wait to seek treatment at Bay Breeze Foot & Ankle Specialists. Call the office today to request an appointment or schedule online.
