Orthopedic foot and ankle treatment can be essential for addressing a wide range of conditions that affect the lower extremities. Our feet and ankles are complex structures made up of bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles, all working together to support our weight, provide balance, and enable movement. However, when something goes wrong—whether due to injury, overuse, or chronic conditions—specialized treatment may be required. Here’s why you might need orthopedic foot and ankle treatment in East Texas.
1. Injury or Trauma
One of the most common reasons to seek orthopedic foot and ankle treatment is an injury or trauma.
Whether you’ve sprained your ankle playing sports or sustained a fracture in an accident, orthopedic specialists can diagnose and treat these injuries. Sprains, fractures, and dislocations often require medical intervention to ensure that the bones heal properly, and that you regain full mobility and strength.
For severe cases, surgery may be necessary, followed by rehabilitation to restore function. If left untreated or inadequately treated, foot and ankle injuries can lead to long-term issues, such as chronic pain, instability, or deformity.
2. Arthritis
Arthritis is another common reason for seeking orthopedic care. Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and post-traumatic arthritis can all affect the joints in your feet and ankles, leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness. These conditions can make it difficult to walk or stand for long periods, limiting mobility and overall quality of life.
Orthopedic treatments for arthritis can include physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, orthotics (customized shoe inserts), or in more severe cases, surgery such as joint fusion or joint replacement.
3. Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a condition that causes pain in the heel due to inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot. This condition is often caused by repetitive stress, standing for long hours, or wearing improper footwear. People who are overweight, athletes, or those who work on their feet are particularly prone to developing plantar fasciitis.
Orthopedic specialists can help manage the condition with physical therapy, custom orthotics, and recommendations for better footwear. In more severe cases, cortisone injections or surgery may be required to relieve pain and restore function.
4. Flat Feet or High Arches
Structural issues like flat feet (fallen arches) or high arches can lead to chronic pain and discomfort in your feet, ankles, and even your knees and hips. These conditions can affect your balance and gait, leading to further complications if not treated.
Orthopedic specialists can provide treatments such as physical therapy, orthotic devices, or surgery to correct these structural problems and alleviate pain.
5. Bunions and Other Deformities
Bunions, hammertoes, and other foot deformities can be painful and limit your ability to walk comfortably. These conditions often worsen over time if left untreated. Orthopedic foot and ankle specialists can recommend non-surgical treatments like shoe modifications and physical therapy or, in more severe cases, perform corrective surgery to realign the bones and joints.