Ankle pain can make walking, standing, and other everyday activities more difficult. The ankle is a complex joint that supports body weight while allowing the foot to move in several directions. Pain may develop suddenly after an injury, or appear gradually because of repeated stress on the joint. Common causes include sprains, arthritis, and tendon problems. In some cases, ankle pain may also result from fractures or inflammation affecting nearby tissues. Symptoms range from mild discomfort to severe pain that limits normal movement. Because many different conditions can affect the ankle, a professional evaluation is important to identify the cause and determine the most appropriate treatment. Early care may also help prevent ongoing pain and improve long-term joint function.

The symptoms of ankle pain vary depending on the underlying problem. Many people experience swelling, stiffness, or tenderness surrounding the joint. Others notice bruising or difficulty putting weight on the affected foot. Pain may become worse while walking, climbing stairs, or participating in physical activities. Reduced flexibility and limited range of motion can also interfere with work, exercise, and daily routines. Persistent ankle pain should not be ignored because untreated problems may lead to additional joint stress and reduced mobility. Identifying the source of pain early allows treatment to begin before symptoms become more severe and may help support a smoother recovery.

A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the feet and ankles. During an examination, the podiatrist evaluates the joint, reviews symptoms, and determines the cause of the pain before creating an individualized treatment plan. Treatment may help reduce pain, improve joint function, and restore mobility based on the specific diagnosis. Early podiatry care may also help prevent further joint damage and support a safe return to normal activities. If you have ankle pain, swelling, or difficulty walking, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Landon Bowerbank, DPM from Pioneer Foot and Ankle. our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Lehi, UT . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Cuboid syndrome affects one of the small bones on the outer side of the foot called the cuboid. This bone helps support normal foot movement and works with nearby joints while walking. Cuboid syndrome develops when the cuboid bone shifts slightly out of its normal position or the surrounding tissues become irritated. This problem can happen after an ankle sprain or repeated stress from sports and other physical activities. Wearing shoes that lack proper support also can increase stress on the foot. Pain usually develops along the outer side of the foot and becomes worse while walking or standing. Some patients notice weakness, tenderness, or difficulty pushing off the foot. The pain can resemble other foot conditions, making a professional evaluation important.

A podiatrist performs a detailed examination to determine whether cuboid syndrome is causing the pain. The evaluation includes checking the location of the discomfort, the movement of the foot, and the stability of the surrounding joints. The podiatrist also watches how the patient stands and walks because changes in movement can place extra stress on the cuboid bone. Imaging tests, like X-rays or MRI scans, help rule out fractures and other conditions that cause similar symptoms. Although these tests do not always confirm cuboid syndrome, they provide valuable information when making a diagnosis. Identifying the correct source of pain allows the podiatrist to recommend the most effective treatment.

Treatment focuses on restoring normal foot function and reducing stress on the injured area. A podiatrist can gently reposition the cuboid bone when it has shifted from its normal alignment. Care also includes custom orthotics that improve foot support and reduce pressure on the outer side of the foot. Stretching and strengthening exercises help improve stability and lower the chance of repeated problems. Patients with ongoing pain are evaluated for other foot conditions that could require additional treatment. If you have symptoms of cuboid syndrome, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with Landon Bowerbank, DPM from Pioneer Foot and Ankle. our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lehi, UT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Kohler disease is a rare childhood foot condition that affects one of the small bones in the middle of the foot, known as the navicular bone. It most often develops in children between the ages of 4 and 7, especially boys, although girls can also be affected. The condition occurs when the blood supply to the bone is temporarily reduced, causing the bone to become irritated before it gradually heals. Children with Kohler disease may begin limping or avoid putting weight on the affected foot because of discomfort. Since many childhood foot problems produce similar symptoms, a professional evaluation is important for an accurate diagnosis. Early assessment can also help rule out fractures, infections, or other conditions that may require different treatment.

Symptoms of Kohler disease usually involve pain along the inner part of the foot where the affected bone is located. Many children experience tenderness, swelling, or discomfort while walking. Others may avoid running or playing, because activity increases pain. In some cases, a child may begin walking on the outside of the foot to reduce pressure on the painful area. Symptoms often develop gradually and may be mistaken for a minor injury at first. Prompt evaluation is important because persistent foot pain in children should never be ignored. Identifying the cause early helps guide appropriate treatment and supports healthy foot development.

A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating both common and rare foot conditions, including Kohler disease. During an examination, the podiatrist reviews symptoms, evaluates the child's foot, and may recommend imaging studies to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment focuses on relieving discomfort, protecting the affected bone, and monitoring healing as the foot develops. Regular follow-up visits also help ensure the condition is improving and that normal foot function is returning. If your child is experiencing foot pain, limping, or swelling that may be related to Kohler disease, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact Landon Bowerbank, DPM of Pioneer Foot and Ankle. our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lehi, UT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar warts are small, rough growths that form on the bottom of the foot. They are caused by HPV, which stands for human papillomavirus. This virus can enter through tiny cuts or weak spots in the skin. These warts are frequently found on the heel or ball of the foot because those areas take the most pressure. That pressure can push the wart inward under thick, hardened skin. A plantar wart can look like a callus, but it can also have tiny black dots. These dots are small, clotted blood vessels, not seeds. Pain can occur when standing or when walking, especially if the wart is in a weight-bearing spot.

Plantar warts can spread on the same foot, and some people develop a cluster which are called mosaic warts. The virus grows well in warm, moist places like locker rooms, pool areas, and shared showers. Children, teenagers, and people with weaker immune systems are more likely to get them. A podiatrist can tell whether the growth is a wart, a corn, or another skin problem. This matters because different foot growths need different care. The podiatrist examines the skin lines, checks for tenderness, and looks for signs that the wart has grown inward. A clear diagnosis helps prevent delays in treatment.

Professional treatment focuses on removing the wart safely and reducing pain. A podiatrist can trim thick skin from the area, apply medicine in the office, or use freezing treatment. Some patients need repeated visits because plantar warts can be stubborn. Your podiatrist can also check whether the wart is changing your step and causing strain in other areas of the foot. This is important because pain can affect posture, balance, and daily activity. Patients with diabetes, poor feeling in the feet, or a weak immune system should seek care promptly. If you have developed a plantar wart, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Landon Bowerbank, DPM from Pioneer Foot and Ankle. our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lehi, UT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.