Common Conditions Related to the Foot and Ankle:
1) Big Toe Problems
The most common condition affecting the big toe is hallux valgus, a deformity where the big toe turns outward and creates a bony bump. In advanced stages, the big toe may even slide under the second toe. It is more commonly seen in women.
Hallux rigidus, a form of arthritis in the big toe joint, is also common. Unlike hip or knee arthritis typically seen after age 60, arthritis in the big toe can appear as early as ages 30–40. It leads to painful and restricted movement, sometimes accompanied by swelling in the area. Ingrown toenails are also frequently seen in the big toe.
2) Forefoot Pain and Other Toe Deformities
Deformities, or structural abnormalities, can also occur in the other toes—most often in the second and fifth toes. In certain neurological conditions, all toes may be affected, resulting in a claw-like appearance. Similarly, rheumatic diseases commonly cause toe deformities.
These deformities not only pose cosmetic concerns but also make wearing shoes difficult and can lead to pain.
In addition to the toes, length discrepancies in the metatarsal bones can cause calluses under the foot. Moreover, inflammations in nerves passing between the metatarsals—such as Morton’s neuroma—can lead to pain in the forefoot, especially between the toes.
3) Midfoot Arthritis and Deformities
After the age of 60, joints located just above the metatarsal bones may develop arthritis, resulting in swelling and pain on the top of the foot. If the condition worsens, it may affect the toes and cause flatfoot deformity.
4) Flatfoot (Pes Planus)
Flatfoot in Children
Every child is born with flat feet, and this is normal up to the age of 5. If flatfoot persists beyond age 10, a clinical and radiological evaluation is essential. In cases where pain is present, orthotic insoles may be prescribed. In more severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary.
Flatfoot in Adults
Flatfoot is not always congenital. It may develop later due to rheumatic diseases, excess weight, or prolonged use of improper footwear. Symptoms include pain, foot deformity, and shoe fitting issues.
5) High Arched Foot (Cavus Foot / Neurological Foot Deformities)
This is the opposite of flatfoot. It often appears in neurological disorders or spinal cord issues. The arch of the inner foot becomes exaggerated. In advanced stages, toe deformities and inward heel positioning may also occur.
6) Drop Foot
Foot drop is the inability to lift the front part of the foot while walking, often causing stumbling. It may result from nerve damage due to polio, surgical complications, or gunshot injuries.
7) Achilles Tendon Issues
The Achilles tendon is the strongest tendon in the body, but it can rupture under excessive stress or develop degenerative injuries that cause chronic or acute pain. Ruptures typically occur in men over 40 playing recreational sports. Pain at the tendon’s attachment point is common in athletes and overweight women.
8) Heel Pain
Not all heel pain is caused by heel spurs. It can also stem from nerve entrapment, rheumatic diseases, tendonitis, or old fractures. Self-treatment should be avoided without a proper diagnosis from a specialist.
9) Tendonitis
Especially common after middle age, excessive or unprepared physical activity can lead to inflammation of foot and ankle tendons. This inflammation is non-infectious and resembles a burning sensation, potentially causing severe pain and difficulty walking.
10) Diabetic Foot
People who have had diabetes for 10 years or more are at high risk for serious foot problems. Beyond chronic wounds, the bones in the foot may fracture or dislocate spontaneously. The condition often begins with swelling and warmth and is frequently misdiagnosed as infection, leading to delayed treatment.
11) Ankle Joint Arthritis
Although less common than hip and knee arthritis, ankle arthritis can also occur. Like in the knee and hip, successful joint replacements can now be performed in the ankle.
12) Cartilage Lesions
Similar to the knee, cartilage injuries in the ankle are common and can usually be treated via arthroscopy. For larger lesions, treatment options range from cartilage cell cultures to stem cell therapies.
13) Heel Fractures
If not treated properly and promptly, heel fractures can lead to painful, deformed feet and significant loss of mobility. Regardless of whether the fracture is recent or old, surgical treatment is available today.
14) Lateral Ankle Ligament Tears
Neglected ankle sprains can lead to chronic instability. If lateral ligaments tear during a sprain and aren’t treated correctly, the ankle may become prone to repeated sprains, which can damage the ankle cartilage over time.