Name: Parvathy Hospital
Address: 241 GST Road (Near MIT Bridge), Chromepet, Chennai, 600044, IN
Telephone: 044 2238 2248

OP Hours

Monday - Afternoon -
Wednesday - Afternoon -
Friday - Afternoon -

REQUEST A CONSULTATION

Book An Appointment

Get OTP

Overview

Foot and ankle pain refers to discomfort or pain experienced in the lower extremities, specifically in the feet and ankles. These areas are critical for various daily activities, and pain or discomfort in the foot and ankle can significantly impact mobility and quality of life.

The feet and ankles are complex structures comprising bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles, allowing for a wide range of motion and support. Foot and ankle pain can manifest in several ways, including:

Localized discomfort in the foot or ankle joint.
Radiating pain that may extend to the leg or even the lower back.
Swelling and inflammation of the foot or ankle.
Difficulty bearing weight or walking due to pain.
Numbness or tingling sensations in the foot or toes.

The severity and duration of foot and ankle pain can vary, and it may be triggered or exacerbated by factors like overuse, injury, or underlying medical conditions. While mild pain can often be managed at home with rest and over-the-counter pain relief, severe or persistent pain may require medical evaluation and treatment. If your foot and ankle pain significantly impairs your daily life or mobility, seeking medical assistance, such as at Parvathy Multispeciality Hospital in Chennai, is advisable.

Common Causes of Foot and Ankle Pain

Foot and ankle pain can be attributed to a variety of underlying factors, including:

Muscular and Ligamentous Strain: Overuse or strain of the muscles and ligaments in the foot and ankle, often due to physical activity or wearing improper footwear.
Plantar Fasciitis: Inflammation of the plantar fascia, the tissue that supports the arch of the foot, can lead to sharp, heel-focused pain.
Arthritis: Conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can affect the joints in the foot and ankle, causing chronic pain and stiffness.
Sprains and Fractures: Injuries such as sprained ankles or fractured bones can lead to acute pain and require medical attention.
Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendons in the foot and ankle can result in pain, especially with specific movements.
Neuropathy: Nerve-related conditions can cause numbness, tingling, and pain in the foot and ankle.

Treatment and Care

The management of foot and ankle pain involves a range of treatment options tailored to the specific condition, severity, and individual needs of the patient. Here are some common treatment and care options for foot and ankle pain:

Physiotherapy: Physiotherapy programs aim to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the foot and ankle. Therapists use exercises, manual techniques, and modalities to reduce pain.
Medications: Pain relievers, including over-the-counter and prescription medications, can help alleviate discomfort and reduce inflammation.
Injections: Corticosteroid injections may be administered into the affected area to reduce inflammation and provide relief.
Surgery: Surgical interventions may be necessary for severe foot and ankle conditions that don't respond to conservative treatments. Common surgeries include ligament repair, tendon reconstruction, and joint replacement.
Orthotics: Custom-made orthotic devices can improve foot alignment, alleviate discomfort, and support the arch.
Lifestyle Modifications: Improving footwear choices, correcting gait, and using orthopedic aids can help prevent and manage foot and ankle pain.

When to Consult a Doctor ?

Consult a doctor whenever you experience foot and ankle pain that affects your daily life. In addition, seek medical attention if you experience:

Persistent Pain: If your foot and ankle pain lingers and disrupts your everyday activities, consult a specialist.
Swelling and Inflammation: Persistent swelling or inflammation in the foot and ankle is a sign to consult a healthcare professional.
Difficulty Walking: If pain makes it difficult to bear weight or walk, it's essential to seek medical evaluation.
Numbness and Tingling: Persistent numbness or tingling in the foot or toes may indicate an underlying issue.
Recent Injury: In cases of recent trauma or injury affecting the foot and ankle, seek immediate medical care.

For specialized care, consider consulting a podiatrist near you, especially if you are looking for a foot specialist or a foot doctor near you. Podiatrists, also known as foot and ankle specialists, focus on the diagnosis and treatment of foot and ankle conditions. If you are in Chennai, you may search for a reputable podiatrist in Chennai or visit a podiatric clinic for comprehensive foot treatment, including issues like bunions, flat feet, and hallux valgus.

Meet The Foot and Ankle Specialist

DR. J DHARMARAJAN

MBBS, D ORTHO (Director of Orthopaedics )

Senior Consultant & Foot and Ankle Surgeon
Dr. J. Dharmarajan is a senior surgeon who specializes in providing compassionate care for patients with foot and ankle trauma and various foot disorders. Dr. J. Dharmarajan boasts an impressive career spanning 26 years, during which he has consistently demonstrated his proficiency in treating complex trauma. He heads Foot and Ankle Institute at Parvathy Hospital

VIEW FULL PROFILE

Call +91 98412 98412 for medical emergencies or 044 2238 2248 / +91 98848 99091 to book an appointment.

General (FAQ) For Foot and Ankle

1. What is the foot and what is the ankle?

The foot is the terminal part of the leg below the ankle, on which a person stands or walks. The ankle is the joint connecting the foot with the leg.

2. What is foot and ankle pain?

Foot and ankle pain refer to discomfort or soreness experienced in the structures, joints, or tissues of the foot and ankle.

3. What is the relationship between the ankle and foot?

The ankle is the joint that connects the leg and the foot. It allows for up-and-down movement, enabling actions like walking and running.

4. Why foot and ankle surgery?

Foot and ankle surgery may be required for severe conditions that do not respond to conservative treatments, aiming to correct deformities, injuries, or chronic issues.

5. What is the cause of hallux valgus?

Hallux valgus, commonly known as a bunion, is often caused by wearing tight, narrow shoes, and may have a genetic predisposition.

6. What is the treatment for hallux valgus?

Treatment may involve wearing wider shoes, using orthotics, pain relief medications, or in severe cases, surgical intervention.

7. Can valgus foot be corrected?

Yes, in many cases, valgus deformities can be corrected through conservative measures or surgical procedures.

8. What is the difference between a bunion and hallux valgus?

A bunion is a common term for hallux valgus, where the big toe deviates towards the second toe, causing a bony bump.

9. Can flat foot be corrected?

Depending on the cause and severity, flat feet can be managed with exercises, orthotics, or in some cases, surgical correction.

10. Is it OK to have a flat foot?

While many people with flat feet do not experience issues, some may require intervention if it leads to pain, instability, or other symptoms.

11. What is flat feet caused by?

Flat feet can be caused by genetic factors, injury, or conditions like tendon dysfunction.

12. How do I know if I'm flat-footed?

A healthcare professional can diagnose flat feet through a physical examination and, if necessary, imaging tests.

13. How do you get rid of heel pain?

Treatment for heel pain involves rest, ice, stretching exercises, supportive footwear, and, if needed, medications or physical therapy.

14. What causes heel pain?

Heel pain can result from conditions like plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, or heel spurs.

15. What is the best medicine for heel pain?

Over-the-counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen, and topical treatments may help manage heel pain. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

16. Does heel pain go away?

With appropriate treatment and care, heel pain often improves. However, persistent pain requires medical attention to identify and address the underlying cause.