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Ankle Pain Specialist

Lake Pointe Foot & Ankle

Martin V Sloan, MS, DPM

Podiatrist located in Rockwall, TX & Abilene, TX

Ankle pain may develop from any number of causes, including an ankle sprain, arthritis, or misalignment. Getting the right diagnosis and treatment plan for your ankle pain may help alleviate your symptoms and prevent complications. At Lake Pointe Foot & Ankle in Abilene, near Dyess Air Force Base, and Rockwall, Texas, Martin Sloan, MS, DPM, FACFAS, uses advanced diagnostic tools to determine the cause of your ankle pain and ensure you get the most effective care. To schedule an appointment, call the office nearest you or book an appointment online today.

Ankle Pain Q&A

What is ankle pain?

Your ankle is a large and complex joint that connects your legs and feet. The structure of your ankle allows you to move your foot in a wide range of directions. Due to the complexity, flexibility, and function of your ankle, pain is a common complaint. 

The type of ankle pain you feel may depend on the cause. Your pain may be sudden and sharp, developing after an unexpected injury, or your pain may be a dull, ongoing ache from an underlying disease.

In addition to the discomfort, your ankle pain symptoms may also include redness, swelling, and stiffness. Your ankle may also feel warm to the touch. 

What causes ankle pain?

Ankle pain may occur from an acute injury or a chronic condition. Common causes of ankle pain include:

  • Ankle sprain
  • Arthritis
  • Gout
  • Ankle instability
  • Ankle fracture
  • Nerve compression
  • Tendonitis
  • Achilles tendon issues

Ankle pain may also be a sign of improper foot alignment or an infection. 

If you’re experiencing ankle pain, Dr. Sloan can help. 

What happens during an ankle pain evaluation?

When you visit Lake Pointe Foot & Ankle for an ankle pain evaluation, you can expect a comprehensive and personalized exam. 

During your evaluation, Dr. Sloan asks detailed questions about your symptoms, including when they started, the type of pain you feel, and the activities that worsen and alleviate your discomfort. 

He then examines your ankle and requests further diagnostic testing to better understand the source of your ankle pain. Lake Pointe Foot & Ankle is a full-service podiatry practice that offers on-site X-rays, diagnostic ultrasounds, and vascular studies, so you get the most accurate diagnosis.  

How is ankle pain treated?

Dr. Sloan develops individualized treatment plans based on the underlying cause of your ankle pain. Treatment might include:

  • Rest, ice, elevation, and compression
  • Strapping/taping of the foot and ankle to correct alignment and reduce strain
  • Activity modification
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  • Physical therapy
  • Exercise or stretching program
  • Cortisone injections

Dr. Sloan is trained in biomechanics for custom orthotics. You may benefit from orthotics to address an alignment issue or chronic condition that would benefit from additional foot or ankle support. He uses an in-office 3D foot scanner to create your custom-made orthotics. 

In some cases, ankle surgery is needed to address your ankle pain. Dr. Sloan is an experienced surgeon and uses advanced tools and techniques to ensure you get the best possible outcomes. 

To get relief from ankle pain, call Lake Pointe Foot & Ankle or request an appointment online today.