Your feet and ankles support your body’s movement and stability, making their health essential for everyday activities. A foot and ankle examination is a comprehensive process designed to identify the cause of pain, limited mobility, or other symptoms affecting this vital area.
At Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Center, located in Greater Columbus, our skilled specialists provide expert care for all foot and ankle concerns. We combine advanced diagnostic techniques with a personalized approach to help you regain your mobility and comfort. Contact us today!
Visiting a podiatrist or orthopedic surgeon doesn’t mean that surgery is necessary. Our orthopedic doctors always prefer to use non-surgical procedures to treat injuries.
“All are so nice, friendly, and explain everything thoroughly. I had been to another podiatrist and was not pleased. This place was a breath of fresh air! They always make me feel like I actually matter as a patient. That’s very rare nowadays.” — Sand S.
A foot and ankle examination is a detailed assessment performed to evaluate the health, function, and structure of the feet and ankles. This evaluation identifies issues ranging from minor discomforts to complex conditions. Common reasons for undergoing this type of exam include pain during movement, swelling, instability, or difficulty walking.
The examination focuses on diagnosing specific foot or ankle pathology. This may include evaluating the integrity of soft tissues like the Achilles tendon or ensuring the ankle joint is functioning properly. The goal is to establish a precise diagnosis so an effective treatment plan can be developed.
During the clinical examination, your specialist will ask about your medical history, current symptoms, and activities that may contribute to the problem. A physical assessment will follow. The doctor often compares the affected ankle with the normal ankle, focusing on several key areas:
In addition to the physical assessment, diagnostic tests may be used to confirm findings or explore deeper issues. Common tests include:
This test assesses injuries to the ankle joint, particularly syndesmotic injuries that may occur with twisting movements.
The doctor applies pressure to specific areas to locate tenderness or swelling, helping identify potential injuries to the lateral ankle ligaments or Achilles tendon.
You may be asked to perform specific movements to evaluate strength and balance.
The results of your foot and ankle examination provide a detailed understanding of your condition and its underlying causes. With this information, your specialist can create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Some common diagnoses that may result from the examination include:
Early and accurate diagnosis leads to better outcomes, allowing you to regain function and reduce pain effectively.
If you’re experiencing pain, instability, or other issues affecting your foot or ankle, a comprehensive evaluation is essential. At Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Center, our team in Greater Columbus specializes in addressing a wide range of conditions with precision and care.
We are dedicated to restoring your mobility and ensuring optimal foot and ankle health. Contact us to schedule your evaluation and explore treatment options tailored to your needs!
Medically reviewed by Sarah Abshier, DPM, CWS
