Western Orthopaedics-Ankle and Foot

The ankle is a hinge joint between the foot and the end of the tibia (leg bone).  It is powered by the muscles from the leg and is stabilized by the ligaments which surround it..  The foot is given support by 26 bones.  These provide an adaptive, semi-rigid platform that allows for walking on uneven surfaces, balance and running. 

To learn more about painful conditions of the foot and ankle, please visit the links below.

Common Conditions of the Ankle and Foot:

Doctors that specialize in this area:

• Achilles Tendon Ruptures

  The Achilles tendon represents the insertion of the calf muscle onto the heel bone. It is important for strength with push off of the foot with walking, running and jumping

• Ankle Fractures

  The ankle is a hinge joint between the leg and the foot. Stability of this joint is maintained by ligaments but also by the bony architecture of the joint

• Flat Feet

  Flat feet, also known as “fallen arches,” are a common cause of foot pain. Many people are born with flat feet and often do not have pain, but others may develop pain in the arch or ankle.

• Bunions

  A bunion, or hallux valgus, is a common cause of foot pain. Bunions can often make it impossible to find comfortable shoes, and over time can cause difficulty in activities such as running and sports.

• Stress Fractures

  The foot is made up 28 different bones, any of which can develop a stress fracture.

• Ankle Arthritis

  Though not as common as arthritis of the hip or the knee, ankle arthritis can be a very disabling condition. Common symptoms are pain and swelling around the ankle.

• Ankle Sprains

  Ankle sprains are the most common athletic injury. Typically, an “ankle sprain” represents partial tearing of the ligaments on the outside of the ankle.

• Calcaneus Fractures

  The calcaneus (or heel bone) is commonly fractured with falls from a height, such as off a ladder or roof.

• Hallux Rigidus

  This is the medical term for arthritis of the big toe. Hallux rigidus is a common cause of pain and bone spurs around the big toe.