Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

The first thing your doctor will do is get some important information about your condition, such as:

• Where is the pain?
• How long have you had the pain or problem?
• Was there an injury?
• What kind of shoes do you wear?

This is followed by a thorough examination of your feet, legs, how you walk, and the SHOES you wear.

X-ray

X-rays are often important in diagnosing a variety of conditions. X-rays show the bones of the foot and ankle and are useful for looking for fractures and arthritic conditions, which affect the bones. (Figure 7: picture of X-ray of foot)

MRI Scan

Several new tests are available for studying problems of the foot and ankle. The magnetic resonance imaging scan (MRI scan) uses magnetic waves to take pictures that look like slices through the foot. The MRI scan is useful because it shows not only the bones of the foot (like a x-ray) but also the soft tissues of the foot and ankle: the tendons, ligaments, and cartilage surfaces. (Figure 8: picture of an MRI Scan)

CAT Scan

The computed axial tomographic scan (CAT scan) is used to take pictures that look like slices through the bones of the foot and ankle. In some cases, this can show a better picture of the bones of the foot and can even be assembled by a computer to give a 3D picture. (Figure 9: picture of a CAT scanner)

Laboratory Tests

Blood tests and other laboratory tests can also help to determine if other health problems are contributing to your foot problem – such as infection, arthritis, or diabetes.

Common Foot and Ankle Syndromes

• Ankle Sprain/Instability
• Osteochondritis Dessicans
• Posterior Tibial Tendinitis/Rupture
• Plantar Fasciitis (Heel Spur)
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Bunion/Hallux Valgus
• Hallux Rigidus
• Bunionette
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Clawtoe/Hammertoe
• Ingrown Toenail
• Achilles Tendon Problems