Ankle pain can make walking, standing, and daily activities more difficult. The ankle is a complex joint that connects the foot and lower leg while helping the body maintain balance and movement. Pain can develop after an injury, repeated stress, or problems affecting the bones, ligaments, tendons, or surrounding tissues. Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that connect bones and help stabilize joints. Ankle sprains are a frequent cause of ankle pain, but other conditions can also affect ankle function. Symptoms include swelling, stiffness, tenderness, and difficulty moving the foot comfortably. Some patients also notice weakness or a feeling that the ankle is unstable. A podiatrist can perform an evaluation to identify the cause of discomfort and determine the most appropriate treatment approach.

A podiatrist examines the foot and ankle to understand how pain is affecting movement and overall function. The evaluation includes checking joint mobility, muscle strength, flexibility, balance, and walking patterns. A podiatrist also reviews the patient's symptoms, activity level, and medical history to identify factors contributing to the problem. Treatment includes customized care plans that focus on improving ankle function, supporting proper movement, and reducing stress on affected tissues. A podiatrist may also evaluate footwear because shoes that lack proper support can affect foot mechanics and place additional strain on the ankle. Treatment options are based on the patient's specific condition and examination findings.

Research shows that ankle pain can affect balance, mobility, and quality of life, making proper evaluation important for effective care. A podiatrist helps patients understand the cause of their symptoms and develops a treatment plan focused on restoring healthy foot and ankle function. Better ankle movement can improve comfort and support participation in daily activities. Treatment plans are personalized according to each patient's symptoms, physical examination, and lifestyle needs. Regular evaluations help monitor progress and guide adjustments in care. If you have symptoms of ankle pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a chiropractor for diagnosis and treatment.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. James D. McAlexander from Gig Harbor Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Gig Harbor, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Falls can have a major impact on health, especially for older adults. A fall can lead to broken bones, reduced mobility, and a loss of confidence while walking. Many falls are linked to foot pain, poor balance, or changes in the way a person walks. Arthritis, reduced feeling in the feet, and foot deformities can make it harder to stay steady on uneven surfaces. Wearing shoes that fit properly and provide good support also plays an important role in maintaining balance. Shoes that are too loose or shoes that lack proper support can increase the risk of losing footing. Painful conditions like bunions, hammertoes, and heel pain also can change walking patterns and increase the chance of a fall.

A podiatrist can identify foot problems that affect balance before they lead to a serious injury. The examination includes checking foot structure, joint movement, and circulation. The podiatrist also evaluates the way the patient stands and walks because changes in gait can affect stability. Gait is the body's walking pattern. The evaluation also looks for reduced feeling in the feet, painful calluses, and other conditions that interfere with safe movement. Early diagnosis allows treatment to begin before foot problems become more severe. Regular foot examinations are especially important for older adults because age-related changes can increase the risk of falls.

Professional foot care helps improve comfort, stability, and confidence while walking. A podiatrist can recommend custom orthotics to improve foot alignment and distribute pressure more evenly across the feet. Care also includes treatment for bunions, fungal nail infections, and ingrown toenails that affect balance and mobility. The podiatrist can recommend shoes that fit properly and provide good support for everyday activities. Routine follow-up visits help monitor changes in foot health and reduce the risk of falls caused by painful foot conditions. If you have symptoms of foot pain, balance problems, or other foot conditions that increase your risk of falls, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Dr. James D. McAlexander from Gig Harbor Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Gig Harbor, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Sever’s disease, also called calcaneal apophysitis, causes pain in the growth plate at the back of the heel, oftentimes affecting children. A growth plate is an area of developing bone found in children and teenagers. Repeated pulling from the Achilles tendon can irritate the growth plate, especially during periods of rapid growth. Heel pain usually becomes worse while walking, running, or participating in sports. The pain can affect one heel or both. Some children also limp or avoid placing full weight on the affected foot because of discomfort. Early evaluation helps identify the condition before pain begins to interfere with school, sports, and other daily activities.

Several factors increase the chance of developing Sever’s disease. Running and jumping sports place repeated stress on the heel. Tight calf muscles can increase pulling on the growth plate. Flat feet or high arches can also change how force is distributed across the foot. Shoes that lack proper support can place additional strain on the heel during activity. A podiatrist diagnoses the condition by discussing symptoms, examining the foot, and checking for tenderness around the back of the heel. Imaging tests are not always necessary, but they can help rule out other causes of heel pain when the diagnosis is uncertain.

A podiatrist creates a treatment plan that reduces stress on the irritated growth plate and improves comfort. Treatment includes custom orthotics, heel cushions, and  wearing supportive shoes. These options help reduce pressure and improve foot alignment while walking. Regular follow-up visits allow a podiatrist to monitor healing and adjust treatment as the child grows. Early care can reduce pain, improve mobility, and support a safe return to normal activities. Most children recover completely once the growth plate matures. If your active child has symptoms of Sever’s disease, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and management tips. 

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Dr. James D. McAlexander from Gig Harbor Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Gig Harbor, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Healthy feet absorb shock, maintain balance, and provide a stable base with every step. When foot muscles become weak or stiff, extra stress develops in the arches, heels, and toes. Regular foot exercise helps improve movement and builds strength in areas that work hard every day. Helpful exercises include toe spreads, standing calf raises, and writing the alphabet with the big toe to improve mobility. Another useful exercise is the asterisk drill, which challenges balance while strengthening the foot and ankle. Bent-knee heel raises also help support the back of the foot and ankle. These movements encourage better control while walking and can reduce strain on the tissues that support the foot.

Exercise works best when performed with proper technique. Poor form can place added stress on painful areas instead of improving them. Patients who continue to experience discomfort while walking, standing, or exercising should seek a professional evaluation instead of ignoring the problem. A podiatrist can determine the cause of the pain through a complete examination. Diagnosis includes evaluating foot structure, joint movement, and muscle strength. A podiatrist also looks for conditions like plantar fasciitis, arthritis, or nerve irritation that contribute to pain. Once the cause is identified, treatment focuses on correcting the problem while helping restore comfortable movement.

A podiatrist can suggest an exercise program based on each patient's condition instead of recommending the same routine for everyone. Care may also include custom orthotics that improve foot alignment and reduce pressure on painful areas. Braces or other supportive devices may be prescribed when appropriate. Patients also receive guidance about choosing shoes that provide proper support and fit correctly. Combining professional treatment with targeted exercises gives the feet a better opportunity to regain strength, improve mobility, and reduce pain. Stronger foot muscles support healthier movement with every step. If you have intense or consistent foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. James D. McAlexander from Gig Harbor Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctor to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Gig Harbor, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.