Foot & Ankle Conditions:
Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment Options
The foot and ankle are exposed to significant daily load and stress throughout the day and are constantly active during walking, running, climbing stairs, and standing. Pain, swelling, deformity, or instability in this region can significantly affect daily life as well as work and sports activities.
Prof. Dr. Halil Can Gemalmaz evaluates and treats foot and ankle disorders across a wide spectrum, from pain that increases with prolonged standing to conditions such as hallux valgus (bunions) and post-traumatic problems.
What symptoms lead patients to seek medical care?
Foot and ankle problems can present in different ways. Patients commonly present with the following complaints:
- Pain in the sole, heel, or around the ankle that increases after prolonged standing or walking
- Heel or plantar foot pain that is most noticeable with the first steps in the morning or worsens at the end of the day
- Deviation of the big toe, friction with shoes, and associated pain
- Recurrent ankle sprains, a feeling of instability, or “giving way”
- Swelling, tenderness, or redness in the foot or ankle
- Burning, stinging, or pressure sensation that increases with standing or sports activities
- Noticeable changes in foot shape and difficulty finding comfortable shoes
In some cases, pain may occur only during walking, while in others it may persist even at rest.
Common causes of foot & ankle pain and disorders
Foot and ankle pain may have various underlying causes. Common conditions include:
Plantar and heel pain (plantar fasciitis):
Pain may develop in the sole and heel due to prolonged standing, improper footwear, weight gain, or biomechanical factors.
Hallux valgus (bunion):
Characterized by deviation of the big toe outward and formation of a bony prominence on the inner side. Pain may worsen with tight or high-heeled shoes.
Ankle sprains and chronic instability:
After previous sprains, ligament laxity may develop, leading to recurrent sprains, instability, and pain.
Flat feet and structural deformities:
Changes in the arch of the foot can alter load distribution, causing pain and early fatigue.
Post-traumatic problems:
Deformities, joint stiffness, and chronic pain following fractures, ligament injuries, or dislocations of the foot and ankle.
Since each condition has a different diagnosis and treatment process, detailed evaluation is essential.
How does the diagnostic process work?
The diagnosis of foot and ankle disorders involves clinical evaluation supported by appropriate tests:
Detailed history and physical examination
- Location of pain, time of onset, and factors that increase or relieve symptoms
- History of trauma, sprains, fractures, or previous surgery
- Evaluation of foot shape, big toe alignment, and ankle stability
- Gait analysis and weight-bearing pattern
Imaging methods
- X-rays to evaluate bone structures of the foot and ankle
- MRI or ultrasound for ligaments, cartilage, and soft tissues when necessary
- Additional imaging in suspected trauma or deformity cases
Additional examinations
Blood tests if infection or rheumatological disease is suspected
In rare cases, nerve conduction studies (EMG) to evaluate nerve compression
The goal is not only to identify the source of pain but also to evaluate the overall biomechanics of the foot and detect factors that may cause long-term problems.
Non-surgical treatment options for foot & ankle conditions
In many cases of foot and ankle pain, non-surgical treatments are considered first:
- Modification of daily activities and reduction of prolonged standing
- Recommendations for appropriate footwear and orthotic insoles
- Weight management when necessary
- Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications when appropriate
- Exercise programs to strengthen muscles supporting the foot and ankle
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Injection treatments to joints or tendons when deemed appropriate
Non-surgical methods play an important role in controlling early-stage symptoms and managing structural problems. However, response time and effectiveness may vary between patients.
When is surgery necessary for foot & ankle conditions?
The decision for surgery is based on symptom duration, severity, impact on daily life, and imaging findings. In general:
- Persistent pain despite appropriate non-surgical treatment
- Deformities such as hallux valgus that make wearing shoes difficult and affect daily life
- Recurrent ankle sprains with significant instability and ligament insufficiency
- Severe deformities or joint damage following trauma
- Ingrown toenails with recurrent infections and persistent pain despite conservative treatment
In such cases, surgical options are evaluated and discussed in detail with the patient.
Surgical treatment options for foot & ankle disease
Surgical procedures are planned based on the type of condition, severity of deformity, and patient expectations. Common procedures include:
Hallux valgus surgery
Procedures aimed at correcting the deviation of the big toe and associated bony prominence to reduce pain and improve alignment.
Ankle ligament reconstruction and stabilization surgery
Procedures designed to restore ligament strength and improve joint stability in patients with chronic ankle instability.
Post-traumatic and deformity surgery
Surgical interventions to correct deformities and joint problems following fractures; in some cases, joint reconstruction or fusion (arthrodesis) may be considered.
Before every surgical procedure, the purpose, process, recovery period, and potential risks are explained in detail.
Professor Gemalmaz's Approach to Foot & Ankle Problems
Professor Gemalmaz evaluates each patient by considering factors such as time spent standing daily, working conditions, sports activities, and footwear preferences.
During the treatment process:
- Priority is given to reducing symptoms with non-surgical methods
- In cases involving deformity, individualized planning is essential
The goal is to determine the most appropriate, evidence-based approach tailored to the patient’s needs.
This page is prepared for general information purposes. The information here is not a substitute for any person-specific diagnosis or treatment recommendations.