An ankle deformity can cause pain and instability when walking, leading to other challenges when left untreated. The experienced team of practitioners at Texas Orthopaedic Associates in Dallas, Plano, Weatherford, Keller, and Fort Worth, Texas, provides comprehensive care for ankle deformities, including medical and surgical care. Call or schedule an appointment online to get help for your ankle deformity.
ANKLE DEFORMITY Q&A
What is an Ankle Deformity?
An ankle deformity is a change in the structure of your ankle joint, affecting its function.
Your ankle is a weight-bearing joint that connects the foot and the leg. The structure of your ankle gives you the ability to move your foot up and down and side to side. The ankle also provides stability when standing and walking.
An ankle deformity may cause pain or make you feel unsteady when standing or walking.
What Causes an Ankle Deformity?
You may develop an ankle deformity due to an injury or an underlying disease. Some conditions that may cause an ankle deformity include:
- Trauma (fracture, ligament tear, dislocation)
- Arthritis
- Overuse
- Tendinitis
Some people are born with an ankle deformity. The change in the structure of the ankle may occur because of a genetic condition or from abnormal positioning in the womb.
Certain neurological conditions, like cerebral palsy, cause muscle weakness or stiffness that may involve the ankle, leading to a deformity.
What Happens During an Ankle Deformity Evaluation?
The team at Texas Orthopaedic Associates conducts a thorough evaluation when you come in with concerns about an ankle deformity. They provide orthopaedic evaluations and care for children and adults.
Your provider asks detailed questions about your symptoms and medical history and examines your ankle. They may also ask you to stand and walk so they can see how your ankle deformity affects your gait.
The team may also request imaging studies of your ankle to confirm or rule out a diagnosis. Texas Orthopaedic Associates does onsite X-rays, ultrasounds, and MRIs, so you get a diagnosis immediately.
What Are The Treatments For an Ankle Deformity?
Treatment for an ankle deformity depends on its severity. When possible, the team at Texas Orthopaedic Associates recommends conservative care, such as:
- Change in footwear
- Orthotics (inserts for the shoe)
- Physical therapy
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
If you have a severe ankle deformity, the skilled team at Texas Orthopaedic Associates may recommend surgery to correct the problem and improve ankle function.
Though you can’t prevent all ankle deformities, wearing supportive shoes, maintaining a healthy weight, and limiting high-impact activities may prevent ankle problems that lead to deformities.
For expert management of your ankle deformity, call Texas Orthopaedic Associates or schedule an appointment online today.
Patient Resource: www.footcaremd.org