common sources OF ankle & foot PAIN

An ankle fracture is a break or multiple breaks in one or more of the bones in the ankle joint. Fractures are usually caused by a rotational injury (twisting or rolling) of the ankle, but can also be caused by an impact, such as from a fall. Symptoms include immediate and severe pain, swelling, bruising, and inability to bear weight on the affected ankle. Risk factors include participating in high-impact sports, uneven surfaces, and inadequate footwear.

Achilles tendinitis is an overuse injury of the Achilles (uh-KILL-eez) tendon, the band of tissue that connects calf muscles at the back of the lower leg to your heel bone. Symptoms often include pain and stiffness along the Achilles tendon in the morning, which may improve with mild activity. Overuse, poor stretching habits before exercise, and wearing high heels can increase the risk.

Achilles tendon rupture is when the Achilles tendon, at the back of the ankle, breaks. Symptoms include the sudden onset of sharp pain in the heel. A snapping sound may be heard as the tendon breaks and walking becomes difficult. Risk factors include engaging in activities that involve sudden starts and stops and poor conditioning.

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. It involves inflammation of a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot and connects your heel bone to your toes (plantar fascia). Symptoms include sharp heel pain that is usually worse in the morning. Risk factors include obesity, prolonged standing, and high arches or flat feet.

Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction is one of the most common problems of the foot and ankle. It occurs when the posterior tibial tendon becomes inflamed or torn. This can lead to a loss of arch support, resulting in flatfoot. Contributing factors include overuse, obesity, and hypertension.

A bunion is a painful bony bump that develops on the inside of the foot at the big toe joint. Symptoms include pain, redness, swelling around the joint, and a visible bump on the side of the foot. Risk factors include wearing tight, narrow shoes and genetic predisposition.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome (TTS), also known as posterior tibial neuralgia, is a compression neuropathy and painful foot condition in which the tibial nerve is compressed as it travels through the tarsal tunnel. Symptoms include tingling, burning, or a sensation similar to an electric shock. Risk factors include flat feet, ankle injury, or swelling that compresses the nerve.

Hallux rigidus is a disorder of the joint located at the base of the big toe. It causes pain and stiffness in the joint, making it hard to bend the toe. Risk factors include overuse, inflammatory diseases, and wearing inappropriate footwear.

A hammer toe is a deformity that causes your toe to bend or curl downward instead of pointing forward. This deformity can lead to pain when walking or wearing shoes. Contributing factors include wearing shoes that don’t fit properly and muscle imbalance.

Gout is a form of arthritis caused by excess uric acid in the bloodstream. The symptoms of gout are due to the formation of uric acid crystals in the joints and the body's response to them. Gout generally affects the joint in the base of the big toe. Risk factors include diet, obesity, and certain health conditions.