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Heel, Foot and Ankle Pain Consultation
Heel, arch, ankle and foot pain can affect every step. Many common causes, such as plantar fasciitis and ankle sprains, improve with suitable footwear, exercises and changes to activity.
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WHAT WE ASSESS
Focused evaluation.
Personalised care.
Foot and ankle pain: what patients usually notice
- Heel pain on taking the first steps in the morning, which eases after walking a little
- Pain under the foot or in the sole, especially after standing for long periods
- Ankle swelling or pain after a twist, or an ankle that keeps turning over
- Pain at the back of the heel or above it, where the Achilles tendon is
- Flat feet or a painful arch, or pain when walking on uneven ground
- Toe pain, or a bony bump on the big toe joint
Medical terms you may hear
Plantar fasciitis (plantar fasciopathy) is pain and irritation of the thick band of tissue under the foot, and it is the most common cause of heel pain. Achilles tendinopathy is overloading of the tendon at the back of the heel. An ankle sprain is a ligament injury, and recurrent ankle instability is repeated giving way. Flat feet (pes planus) means a low arch. A bunion (hallux valgus) is a bony bump at the big toe joint.
Common causes
- Sudden increases in walking, running or standing
- Unsupportive or worn-out footwear
- Tight calf muscles or reduced ankle movement
- Extra body weight
- A previous ankle sprain that has not been fully rehabilitated
What a consultation includes
- A history of the pain and how it affects walking and standing
- Examination of the foot posture, ankle movement, strength and walking pattern
- X-rays when a fracture or joint problem needs to be checked
- Ultrasound or MRI when they will help decide the treatment
- Advice on footwear, stretches and exercises
Treatment options
Most people with plantar fasciitis improve without surgery, usually with stretching and strengthening exercises, changes to activity, supportive footwear, and sometimes heel cups, orthoses, night splints or injections in selected cases. Achilles problems and ankle instability are managed with a structured rehabilitation programme. Surgery is considered for persistent problems, such as bunions or recurrent ankle instability, when non-operative care has not worked.
When to arrange an assessment
- Heel or foot pain lasting more than a few weeks
- An ankle that keeps giving way
- Swelling or pain that does not settle after an ankle injury
- Pain while standing, walking or working for long periods
- Children with flat feet or foot posture concerns
Warning signs that need urgent care
- A sudden "pop" at the back of the ankle or heel, followed by inability to push off or stand on the toes; this needs prompt assessment
- Inability to bear weight after an injury
- A foot that looks deformed, or feels numb or cold after an injury
- If you have diabetes and notice a foot wound, redness or infection, seek prompt medical care
Go to the nearest emergency department or call 112 if you have severe pain with a deformed limb, numbness, a cold or pale limb, or heavy bleeding.
PATIENT CENTRED CARE
Accurate diagnosis. Appropriate treatment. Better movement.
The right treatment depends on the cause, severity, duration and functional impact of your symptoms. Consultation helps determine whether you need conservative care, further investigation, rehabilitation or referral for additional treatment.
Schedule a Consultation →This information is educational and does not replace an individual clinical assessment. Your symptoms and treatment are assessed at consultation. Call for appointments and availability: +91 92116 36116.