Conditions of the Foot & Ankle

At Joint Implant Surgeons of Southwest Florida, we find the cause of foot and ankle pain through a focused history, a hands-on exam, and on-site imaging. Location of pain, how the injury happened, and symptoms such as push-off weakness, swelling, bruising, or instability guide the workup. Our offices in Cape Coral, Fort Myers, and Naples offer digital X-ray, ultrasound, and open MRI to support a prompt diagnosis.


Common causes of foot and ankle pain include:


  • Achilles tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendon that connects the calf to the heel. It often causes pain with walking, running, or jumping.
  • Tendon ruptures: A partial or complete tear of a tendon. The Achilles tendon is the most often torn.
  • Broken ankle: A break in one or more bones of the ankle.
  • Talus fracture: A break of the talus, the bone between the shinbone (tibia) and the heel bone (calcaneus).
  • Heel (calcaneus) fracture: A break in the heel bone, usually from a fall or high impact.
  • Midfoot fractures: Breaks of the navicular, cuboid, or cuneiform bones. A Lisfranc injury is a type of midfoot fracture.
  • Osteoarthritis: Wear of joint cartilage that leads to pain, swelling, and stiffness.
  • Sprains: Stretching or tearing of ligaments. Severe sprains can cause joint instability.
  • Stress fractures: Tiny cracks from repetitive force or overuse. These are common in the metatarsals and the navicular.
  • Toe and forefoot fractures: Breaks in the toes or forefoot that can cause pain, swelling, bruising, and deformity.


Foot problems often stem from weak muscles, tendons, and ligaments. These can cause poor alignment and limited mobility. Poor foot posture can also contribute to knee, hip, or low back pain. Addressing the root cause supports lasting relief and better function.


How we diagnose


  • Medical history, including prior injuries, shoes, and activity level
  • Physical exam with strength, alignment, and balance testing
  • Gait and push-off assessment
  • On-site imaging, including digital X-ray, ultrasound, or open MRI
  • When needed, advanced tests or diagnostic injections to confirm the pain source


Treatment options We tailor care to your goals, activity level, and findings.


  • Activity changes and cross-training to reduce strain
  • Immobilization with a boot or cast for fractures or severe sprains
  • Bracing or taping for stability
  • Custom or over-the-counter orthotics and supportive footwear
  • Physical therapy to improve strength, mobility, and balance
  • Anti-inflammatory medications, as appropriate
  • Ultrasound-guided injections, such as corticosteroid or platelet-rich plasma (PRP), when suitable
  • Fracture care, including reduction and fixation
  • Surgery when needed, such as tendon repair, ligament reconstruction, arthroscopy, fracture fixation, fusion, or ankle replacement in select cases


Integrated care in Southwest Florida Our orthopedic and foot and ankle team works with on-site physical, occupational, and hand therapy to support recovery. We accept major insurances and offer coordinated scheduling.


If foot or ankle pain limits your daily life, schedule an evaluation. Bring prior imaging and a list of medications if you have them. Early diagnosis reduces the risk of chronic pain and speeds your return to activity.