Call us for free(724) 503-4444

About Foot & Ankle Pain and Stiffness

Foot & Ankle Pain and Stiffness

Surprising as it may seem, such chronic mechanical foot and ankle pain is the third most common reason for an average person to seek medical attention. This complex joint composed of 26 separate bones and its intricate attachment network is responsible for bearing the weight of the entire human structure.

Arthritic Conditions

Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis are very common in the foot and ankle, and the resultant damage to the joints and bony structures can not only cause pain, but also an alteration of the gait pattern that can affect the knees, hips and more. Gout is another arthritic condition resulting from deposition of uric acid crystals in a joint. This is an acute situation characterized by a reddening of a single joint along with severe pain, and if left untreated can cause irreversible damage to a joint.

Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Spurs

The arches of the foot are the primary structures that control how much force is pushed back into the body with each footfall. The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that connects the toes to the heel, and can become inflamed by general overuse, lack of proper footwear, and injuries. The pain from plantar fasciitis usually occurs in the heel and bottom of the foot and is most severe with the first steps of the day. Plantar fasciitis typically starts gradually and worsens over time, and is often on one side. The condition, when not treated properly can lead to other problems such as Achilles tendinitis and gait abnormalities. A heel "spur" is a fairly common condition. There is a naturally occurring bony outgrowth from the heel bone that typically has no sensation associated with it. This bone can become injured or inflamed from repetitive stress leading to long-term ligament strain and associated pain.

Sprains and Strains

Sprains can be the result of a sudden single trauma or a repeated combination of stress to the foot causing the ligaments that hold the joints of the foot and ankle together to become stretched beyond their expected limitations and even possibly being torn. The muscles of the foot and ankle can be strained by overuse, overstretching, and overloading. These conditions lead to significant pain and gait abnormalities, and delay in treatment can lead to complications not only with the foot and ankle, but also elsewhere in the body.

3 Steps to Improving Your Foot & Ankle Pain and Stiffness


  I started getting ankle pain a few months ago that continued to worsen with time. My family doctor said it was because of my weight. Since I have other significant health issues, weight loss is a challenge, but when you can't even walk without pain, exercise becomes nearly impossible. My brother recently completed a treatment plan for tennis elbow with a chiropractor, and urged me to give it a chance, so I did. The MMT and strengthening exercises are very doable,even for someone out of condition like me. I've been going for quite a few weeks now and it has absolutely changed my life. I not only have less pain, but I feel more energetic and I'm able to walk for exercise!  

Vanessa Gagnon

  My "normal" foot pain became alarmingly worse about a month ago. It turns out that I have some arthritis in both feet, but only one was painful. My sister told me about her experience at PainAway, so I decided to give them a try. The motion therapy has helped my posture and balance, and by doing so, my foot pain is gone!  

Vincent Lam

  I sprained my ankle playing basketball, and after it healed, I continued to have an annoying lingering pain in my arch. My trainer suggested this new mechanical motion therapy and I saw things improve almost immediately. I'm back in the game pain free and so happy I listened to good advice!  

Jonathan Majors

Serving Bridgeville and surrounding areas