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Foot and Ankle Specialist in Singapore
Our team of specialists & surgeons provide comprehensive treatment for various foot and ankle conditions. Our clinic focuses on thorough evaluation and personalised treatment, utilising techniques that range from minimally invasive surgery to joint reconstruction and replacement.
Experiencing discomfort or pain in your foot or ankle? Our foot and ankle specialist can offer diagnostic evaluation and individualised treatment plans tailored to your specific needs.
Dr. Ambrose Yung
Common Foot and Ankle Conditions
Foot and ankle conditions vary widely in terms of severity and impact. Common conditions include:
- Ingrown Toenails - This occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain and possibly infection. It is often seen in the big toe.
- Achilles Tendinitis - Involving inflammation of the Achilles tendon, this condition typically arises from overuse and is common among athletes.
- Gout - This is a condition characterised by sudden and severe attacks of pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness, usually affecting the joint at the base of the big toe. It is caused by crystallised uric acid deposits in the joint.
- Nail Bed Disorders and Injuries - These include a range of issues from infections to injuries affecting the nail bed, often leading to pain and discomfort.
- Ankle Fractures - Ankle fractures involve a break in one or more of the bones that make up the ankle joint. They can range from less severe breaks to more complex fractures requiring surgical intervention.
- Plantar Fasciitis - This condition involves the inflammation of the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bone to the toes.
- Bunions - A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe. This often results in the big toe pushing against the next toe.
- Ankle Sprains - Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments that support the ankle stretch beyond their limits and tear. Sprains range from mild to severe, depending upon how much damage there is to the ligaments.
- Hammertoe and Mallet Toe - These are deformities of the toes, usually developing due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that hold the toe straight. Hammertoe affects the middle joint, while mallet toe affects the joint nearest to the toenail.
- Osteoarthritis of the Foot and Ankle - This is a type of arthritis caused by the breakdown and eventual loss of cartilage in the joints. It can lead to pain, swelling, and reduced motion in the foot and ankle.
Common Causes Of Foot and Ankle Conditions
The causes of foot and ankle conditions are diverse, each contributing to the development of various disorders.
- Repetitive Stress and Overuse
Continuous or repetitive movement, often seen in athletes and certain occupations, can lead to conditions such as Achilles tendinitis and plantar fasciitis. - Injury or Trauma
Sudden impacts or accidents can cause fractures, sprains, and other acute injuries to the foot and ankle. - Improper Footwear
Shoes that do not fit well or provide inadequate support can contribute to the development of bunions or hammertoe, and exacerbate issues like ingrown toenails. - Age-Related Wear and Tear
Degenerative changes in the foot and ankle joints, like osteoarthritis, often develop due to ageing. - Genetic Predisposition
Certain foot and ankle conditions, such as bunions or specific toe deformities, can be inherited. - Underlying Health Conditions
Medical conditions like gout and diabetes can lead to foot and ankle problems, including gout attacks and diabetic foot complications. - Obesity
Excess weight can increase the stress on the foot and ankle joints, leading to a higher risk of conditions like osteoarthritis and heel pain.
Symptoms and Signs
The symptoms and signs of foot and ankle conditions can vary widely, depending on the specific disorder.
- Pain and Tenderness: Often the first indication of a problem, pain can range from mild to severe and may be constant or intermittent.
- Swelling: This can occur around the affected area, often as a response to injury or inflammation.
- Stiffness and Reduced Mobility: Difficulty in moving the foot or ankle, or a reduction in the range of motion, can be a sign of conditions like osteoarthritis.
- Changes in Appearance: Deformities such as bunions or hammertoes, or changes in the shape or alignment of the foot and ankle, are common signs.
- Redness and Warmth: These can indicate inflammation or infection, particularly in conditions like gout or Achilles tendinitis.
- Difficulty Bearing Weight: Experiencing pain or discomfort during standing, walking, or other weight-bearing activities is a common symptom.
- Numbness or Tingling: This can suggest nerve involvement, as seen in some diabetic foot conditions.
Diagnosis
The process of diagnosing foot and ankle conditions typically involves several steps:
- Patient History and Physical Examination: The initial evaluation includes discussing symptoms, medical history, and a physical examination of the foot and ankle. This may also include biomechanical assessments to analyse the patient’s gait, balance, and foot alignment, to diagnose conditions related to structure and movement.
- Imaging Tests: X-rays, MRI scans, or CT scans are often used to visualise the internal structure of the foot and ankle, helping to identify issues like fractures or degenerative changes. Ultrasounds can also be used to assess soft tissue conditions, such as tendinitis or plantar fasciitis.
- Blood Tests: In cases like gout, blood tests may be conducted to check for uric acid levels or other relevant markers.
- Nerve Function Tests: For conditions suspected to involve nerve damage, tests like electromyography (EMG) can be utilised.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Various non-surgical treatment options are available for foot and ankle conditions. These aim to relieve symptoms and promote healing.
Medication
Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs are commonly prescribed to reduce pain and inflammation. In specific conditions like gout, medications to lower uric acid levels might be used.
Orthotics and Bracing
Custom orthotics, braces, or splints can provide support, alleviate pain, and correct alignment issues in the foot and ankle.
Physical Therapy
Exercises and modalities to strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce pain are integral parts of rehabilitation.
Corticosteroid Injections
These can be used to reduce inflammation in conditions like Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis.
Surgical Treatment Options
When non-surgical treatments are insufficient, surgical options may be considered.
- Bunion Surgery
This involves correcting the deformed area of the foot, often by realigning the bone and correcting the soft tissues around the big toe. - Reconstructive Surgery for Achilles Tendonitis
In severe cases, surgery may be required to repair a damaged Achilles tendon. - Arthroscopic Surgery for Ankle Disorders
Minimally invasive surgery can be used to treat a variety of ankle problems, including removing loose fragments, cleaning the joint, or repairing damaged tissue. - Surgery for Severe Ankle Fractures
Complex fractures may require surgical intervention to properly realign the bones and stabilise the joint. - Corrective Surgery for Hammertoe and Mallet Toe
These procedures typically involve realigning the deformed toe and may include tendon transfers, joint resections, or pinning. - Joint Replacement or Fusion for Osteoarthritis
In advanced cases of osteoarthritis, joint replacement or fusion might be necessary to alleviate pain and restore function.
Rehabilitation Process
The rehabilitation process for foot and ankle conditions typically involves a combination of physical therapy, exercises, and possibly the use of orthotic devices, tailored to the individual’s specific condition. Physical therapy focuses on improving strength, flexibility, and balance, while exercises are designed to restore range of motion and reduce pain.
The duration and intensity of the rehabilitation programme depend on the severity of the condition and the patient’s overall health, with the goal being to return to normal activity levels safely and effectively.
Preventing Foot and Ankle Complications
Preventative measures can play a role in reducing the risk of developing foot and ankle complications.
- Regular Exercise: Engaging in activities that strengthen foot and ankle muscles can improve stability and reduce the risk of injuries.
- Proper Footwear to Support the Foot and Ankles: Choosing shoes that fit well, offer good support, and are appropriate for specific activities can prevent many common foot problems.
- Maintaining a Healthy Weight: Reducing excess stress on the foot and ankle joints by maintaining a healthy weight can prevent degenerative changes and pain.
- Avoiding Overuse: Taking breaks, varying routines, and avoiding repetitive movements that stress the foot and ankle can prevent overuse injuries.
- Foot Hygiene and Care: Engage in adequate foot care to maintain foot hygiene and regularly check for any changes or signs of problems to prevent any complications.
Our Clinic Locations
Spire Hand & Upper Limb Centre
3 Mount Elizabeth, #07-10
Singapore 228510
Monday – Friday: 9.00am – 6.00 pm
Saturday: 9.00am – 1.00pm
Sunday & PH: CLOSED
Spire Orthopaedic Physiotherapy & Rehab Centre
101 Irrawaddy Road, #18-03
Singapore 329565
Monday – Friday: 9.00am – 6.00 pm
Saturday: 9.00am – 1.00pm
Sunday & PH: CLOSED
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What Should I Avoid Doing If I Have Foot or Ankle Pain?
Try to avoid activities that exacerbate the pain. This may include standing for prolonged periods, wearing high heels, or engaging in high-impact sports. Gentle exercises and stretches, tailored to the specific condition, can be beneficial. Consult a foot and ankle specialist for personalised guidance on activities suitable for your condition and health status.
How Long Does It Take to Recover from Foot or Ankle Pain?
Recovery time varies depending on the underlying cause and severity. Mild sprains and strains may improve within weeks, while more serious conditions like fractures or tendon injuries may require several months. A structured treatment plan and adherence to recommended therapies can aid in efficient recovery.
What Happens If Foot or Ankle Conditions Go Untreated?
Untreated conditions can lead to worsening symptoms and potential long-term complications. For example, untreated Achilles tendinitis may increase the risk of tendon rupture. Seek early medical attention to reduce the risk of any complications or further progression of the condition.
When Should I Consider Surgery for My Foot or Ankle Condition?
Surgery is typically considered when conservative treatments have been ineffective, or the condition is severely impacting quality of life. Surgical options depend on the specific condition and individual circumstances. Consult with a foot and ankle specialist to help determine the best course of action.
How Do I Know If My Foot or Ankle Pain Warrants Medical Attention?
If pain persists, worsens, or is accompanied by swelling, redness, or changes in mobility, seek medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent the condition from escalating and ensure a more favourable outcome.