Top 5 Foot & Ankle Injuries and How to Treat Them

Our feet and ankles support the full weight of the body and are essential for movement, balance, and everyday mobility. Yet, we often take them for granted, whether by wearing poorly fitted shoes, increasing physical activity too quickly, or pushing through discomfort. When pain, swelling, or instability appears, it may be a sign that your feet or ankles are struggling and need attention.

In this article, we explore the most frequent foot and ankle injuries, and practical steps to treat and prevent them, so you can stay active without compromising your mobility.

Common Causes of Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle problems can stem from a variety of everyday situations:

• Trauma or sudden impact from falls, missteps or twisting movements
• Overuse during sports, exercise or repetitive activities
• Improper footwear that lacks adequate cushioning or arch support
• Degenerative conditions such as arthritis, which weaken the joints over time
• Structural deformities like flat feet or bunions that alter normal alignment and movement

Early medical evaluation is important to identify the cause and prevent these injuries from progressing into chronic pain, instability or long-term joint problems.

The 5 Common Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are among the most frequent musculoskeletal complaints and can affect anyone, from casual walkers to competitive athletes. Here are five injuries you may encounter and guidance on how to manage them:

1. Ankle Sprain

An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments supporting the joint are stretched or torn, often from an unexpected twist or uneven landing. This injury is particularly common during sports or outdoor activities.

• Symptoms: Pain, swelling, bruising, and reduced range of motion. In severe cases, putting weight on the ankle can be difficult.
• Treatment: Mild sprains often improve with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). Moderate to severe sprains may need a medical evaluation, physiotherapy, or supportive bracing to prevent instability and aid recovery.

Learn more here: Ankle Sprain

2. Achilles Tendonitis

The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel and is vital for walking, running, and jumping. Repetitive strain or overuse can inflame or damage the tendon, resulting in Achilles tendonitis.

• Symptoms: Pain and stiffness along the back of the heel that worsen with activity are common indicators. Patients also experience discomfort that may be more noticeable in the morning or after prolonged exercise.
• Treatment: Rest, gentle stretching, supportive footwear and physiotherapy can help reduce strain and promote healing. If symptoms persist, a clinical evaluation at a foot and ankle clinic in Singapore is recommended to check for partial tears or chronic inflammation.

Learn more here: Achilles Tendonitis

3. Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that supports the arch of the foot, becomes inflamed or irritated due to overuse or excessive strain.

• Symptoms: The condition typically causes sharp heel pain, especially with the first few steps in the morning or after long periods of rest. The pain often eases with movement but may return after prolonged standing or activity.
• Treatment: Management may include stretching exercises, custom orthotics, supportive footwear and physiotherapy to relieve tension and strengthen the foot. Imaging may also be necessary to rule out other causes of heel pain, such as stress fractures or nerve issues.

Learn more here: Plantar Fasciitis

4. Stress Fractures

Stress fractures are tiny cracks in bones caused by repetitive pressure rather than a single traumatic event. They frequently occur in runners or anyone who suddenly increases activity levels.

• Symptoms: Localised pain and tenderness, worse with movement or impact, often easing with rest but returning with activity.
• Treatment: Rest, modified activity, and supportive footwear are essential. In some cases, immobilisation under orthopaedic guidance may be required. Early recognition is crucial to prevent a complete fracture.

Learn more here: Hairline (Stress) Fractures

5. Bunions and Toe Deformities

Bunions, or hallux valgus, form when the big toe shifts toward the other toes, creating a bony bump at the joint. Over time, this can lead to pain and difficulty with footwear.

• Symptoms: Pain, swelling, redness, and trouble fitting into narrow shoes. Toe deformities, like hammer toes, may develop as the foot’s mechanics change.
• Treatment: Early-stage management includes changing footwear, using toe spacers, or wearing splints. Severe or persistent cases may require surgical correction, which can be minimally invasive or traditional, depending on the condition.

Learn more here: Bunion and Bunionettes

When to See a Foot and Ankle Doctor in Singapore

You should consider seeing a specialist if you experience any of the following:

• Pain or swelling that persists for several days without improvement
• Recurrent ankle sprains or a feeling of instability when walking
• Difficulty bearing weight or performing daily activities
• Visible deformity or misalignment of the foot or ankle

A foot and ankle clinic in Singapore can perform a detailed assessment through physical examination and imaging tests such as X-rays, ultrasound or MRI scans. Based on the findings, they can design a treatment plan to relieve discomfort, promote healing, and restore function.

Preventive Care and Recovery Tips

Keeping your feet and ankles healthy requires consistent care and attention. Here are some ways to reduce the risk of injury and support recovery.

• Choosing well-fitted, supportive footwear
• Incorporating calf and plantar fascia stretches to improve flexibility
• Gradually increasing activity intensity to avoid overuse
• Allowing adequate rest between high-impact sessions

For tailored advice, a consultation with an orthopaedic specialist can help you develop a prevention or rehabilitation plan suited to your lifestyle and activity level.

Persistent pain, swelling, or instability should never be ignored. Schedule a consultation with our orthopaedic specialist to receive an accurate diagnosis and a treatment plan designed to get you moving safely again.

About Dr Seng Chusheng

Dr Seng Chusheng is a consultant orthopaedic surgeon at Axis Orthopaedic Centre, specialising in foot and ankle surgery and knee surgery. He obtained his MBBS and Master of Medicine in Orthopaedic Surgery from the National University of Singapore and is a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh.

Dr Seng trained at the Assal Centre in Geneva, Switzerland, focusing on complex foot and ankle deformities, trauma and minimally invasive techniques. Before entering private practice, he served as a consultant orthopaedic surgeon at Singapore General Hospital and continues as a visiting consultant there. His dedication to patient care earned him the SingHealth Service With A Heart Award.

An active contributor to orthopaedic research, Dr Seng has published in peer-reviewed journals and was awarded the Japanese Orthopaedic Association Travelling Fellowship.