Foot or Ankle Pain? An Orthopedic Surgeon Explains Common Causes and Treatments

Q: What are some of the most common foot and ankle conditions you treat?

Stefan Garcia, MD: I see a wide range of conditions, but some of the most frequent include:

• Acute and chronic Achilles tendon injuries/pain
• Post-traumatic and degenerative arthritis
• Deformity (flatfoot, Cavus foot, bunions and hammertoes)
• Foot and ankle trauma (fractures)
• Ligament sprains and chronic ankle instability 

Many of these conditions start out as mild issues, but they can become much more difficult to treat if they are not addressed in a timely manner, which is why early evaluation is so important.

Q: How do people usually develop these conditions?

Stefan Garcia, MD: For some conditions like bunions, foot deformity or rarer types of arthritis, genetics can play a role. Other times, repetitive microtrauma from overuse or multiple injuries can contribute to tendon degeneration or cartilage damage. 

Q: What are the best ways to treat these conditions?

Stefan Garcia, MD: With the exception of specific types of fractures, most conditions can successfully be treated non-operatively. Braces, orthotics, physical therapy and injections are commonly successful in managing the symptoms. We collaborate with physical therapists, orthotists, PM&R specialists, neurologists and pain management to provide the best care possible to our patients. Performing a surgery is always the final option, not the first.

Q: And what if surgery is required?

Stefan Garcia, MD: My team and I work with every patient to ensure we have the best surgical plan in place to get them back on their feet as quickly as possible. I perform minimally invasive surgeries to minimize the risk of complications and to get patients back on their feet as quickly as possible.

Q: Is there anything else patients should know about?

Stefan Garcia, MD: I believe in shared decision making. My goal is to share my expertise on the likely outcome with each treatment option and come up with a plan tailored to each specific patient’s situation. I also understand how frustrating foot and ankle pain can be.
Additionally, access to care is important for us at Trinity Health. Many patients seen at urgent care facilities and emergency departments leave with many questions regarding their diagnosis and treatment options, so we reserve same-day patient appointments to get you evaluated as soon as possible. Our goal is to get patients back to the activities they love as quickly as possible.

Early evaluation can often lead to simpler treatments, faster recovery and significantly happier patients. If something is bothering you, don’t hesitate to reach out and schedule an appointment today.

Need Expert Care for Foot or Ankle Pain?

If foot or ankle pain is impacting your daily life, our orthopedic specialists at Trinity Health Michigan are here to help. Get expert evaluation and personalized treatment options designed to get you moving again.

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