Joint Pain: Leg, Foot & Ankle Pain Relief and Therapy

Joint pain refers to discomfort, aches, or soreness in the areas where two or more bones meet. While it can occur anywhere in the body, the joints in the legs, feet, and ankles are especially prone to pain due to the continuous load they bear during walking, standing, and movement.

This type of pain can stem from various causes, including arthritis, injury, overuse, or inflammation. Symptoms can range from a dull, lingering ache to sharp or throbbing pain. Some individuals may also experience stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity, while others notice discomfort that worsens with activity or weight-bearing tasks.

When left unaddressed, leg or ankle joint pain can interfere with everyday activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or standing for long periods. Managing joint pain effectively involves more than temporary relief, it requires identifying the underlying cause to restore mobility, reduce discomfort, and support long-term joint health.

Causes of Joint Pain

Several underlying conditions can be responsible for the pain you feel in your lower limbs. A precise diagnosis is key to effective management.

This is a primary cause of joint pain, involving inflammation of one or more joints. The most common types are osteoarthritis (wear-and-tear, which breaks down cartilage) and rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune disorder where the body attacks the joint lining), both leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness.

Acute trauma is a frequent source of joint pain. This includes ankle sprains, ligament tears, stress fractures from repetitive impact, or dislocations. If not managed correctly, these injuries can lead to chronic pain and instability.

Tendinitis is the inflammation of a tendon, the thick cord that attaches muscle to bone. Common in the foot and ankle, such as Achilles tendinitis, it results from overuse and creates localised pain and tenderness around the affected joint.

Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis caused by the build-up of uric acid crystals in a joint. It is known for causing sudden and severe episodes of pain, often in the big toe, accompanied by intense swelling and redness.

Though less common, a bacterial or viral infection within a joint (septic arthritis) can cause severe pain, swelling, fever, and difficulty moving the limb. This is a serious condition that requires prompt medical attention.

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What is Joint Pain?

Symptoms of Joint Pain

Recognising the specific symptoms you are experiencing can help in
communicating with your healthcare provider and finding the right diagnosis.

Pain

This is the most common symptom, ranging from a dull, persistent ache to a sharp, stabbing sensation. The pain may worsen with specific movements, after long periods of standing, or during weight-bearing activities.

Swelling

Inflammation may cause visible swelling around the affected joint. You may notice puffiness, a stretched feeling in the skin, or a loss of definition in areas like the ankles or toes. Swelling can limit joint flexibility and increase discomfort.

Stiffness

A feeling of restricted movement in the joint, particularly noticeable first thing in the morning or after being seated for a long time. This stiffness can make it difficult to initiate movement, like taking the first few steps of the day.

Heat and Redness

Warmth and redness over a joint may indicate active inflammation or, in some cases, infection. These symptoms should be monitored closely, especially if accompanied by pain or swelling.

Instability

Some individuals experience a feeling of weakness or giving way in the joint. This joint instability may make it harder to maintain balance or perform weight-bearing activities confidently.

Decreased Mobility

Over time, pain and swelling can reduce your range of motion, making it more difficult to bend, flex, or rotate the joint. This may interfere with walking, exercising, or even wearing certain types of shoes comfortably.

Arthritis

Injuries

Tendinities

Gout

Infections

Step 1. Thorough Assessment

A detailed initial assessment is conducted to understand the patient’s condition, lifestyle, and any contributing factors to the joint pain. This involves a physical examination, gait analysis, and a review of medical history.

Step 2. Customised Management Plans

Based on the assessment, a tailored management plan is developed. This may include a combination of conservative management methods, physical therapy.

Step 3. Advanced Therapies

Utilisation of extracorporeal shockwave therapy (both radial and focal applications), ultrasound scanning, and other advanced techniques to promote healing and reduce pain.

Step 4. Custom Orthotics

Custom foot orthotics are designed and fitted to provide optimal support, correct foot mechanics, and reduce joint pain and promote healing. These orthotics are created based on precise measurements and tailored to the patient’s specific needs.

Step 5. Education and Prevention

Patients are educated on proper footwear, ankle braces, foot care, and exercises to protect joints and prevent further damage. This proactive approach helps in preventing future issues and managing existing conditions effectively.

Step 6. Follow-Up Care

Regular follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor progress, adjust management plans as necessary, and ensure long-term recovery and management. UFIT Podiatry emphasises continuous care to help patients achieve and maintain joint health.

Our Approach to Joint Pain Therapy

At UFIT Podiatry, a personalised and comprehensive approach is adopted to manage joint pain, focusing on relieving symptoms, promoting healing, and preventing recurrence. The management strategy includes:

Step 1. Thorough Assessment

Step 2. Customised Management Plans

Based on the assessment, a tailored management plan is developed. This may include a combination of conservative management methods, physical therapy.

Step 3. Advanced Therapies

Utilisation of extracorporeal shockwave therapy (both radial and focal applications), ultrasound scanning, and other advanced techniques to promote healing and reduce pain.

Step 5. Education and Prevention

UFIT Podiatry 3D printing custom insoles

Step 4. Custom Orthotics

Step 6. Follow-Up Care

Our Approach to Joint Pain Therapy

Step 1. Thorough Assessment

Step 2. Customised Management Plans

Based on the assessment, a tailored management plan is developed. This may include a combination of conservative management methods, physical therapy.

Step 3. Advanced Therapies

Utilisation of extracorporeal shockwave therapy (both radial and focal applications), ultrasound scanning, and other advanced techniques to promote healing and reduce pain.

Step 4. Custom Orthotics

Step 5. Education and Prevention

Step 6. Follow-Up Care

Management of Joint Pain at UFIT Podiatry

At UFIT Podiatry, a personalized and comprehensive approach is adopted to manage joint pain, focusing on relieving symptoms, promoting healing, and preventing recurrence. The management strategy includes:

1. Thorough Assessment

2. Customized Management Plans

Based on the assessment, a tailored management plan is developed. This may include a combination of conservative management methods, physical therapy, and, if necessary, surgical interventions

3. Advanced Therapies

Utilization of extracorporeal shockwave therapy (both radial and focal applications), ultrasound scanning, and other cutting-edge techniques to promote healing and reduce pain.

4. Custom Orthotics

Custom orthotic devices are designed and fitted to provide optimal support, correct foot mechanics, and reduce joint pain and promote healing. These orthotics are created based on precise measurements and tailored to the patient’s specific needs.

5. Education and Prevention

6. Follow-Up Care

Regular follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor progress, adjust treatment plans as necessary, and ensure long-term recovery and management. UFIT Podiatry emphasizes continuous care to help patients achieve and maintain joint health.

What to expect on your first visit

FULL BODY ASSESSMENT

We recognise the interconnectedness of musculoskeletal health, so we assess your entire body, not just your feet. We also focus on vital health indicators impacting your lower limbs, like circulation, nerve function and alignment.

ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY

We use cutting-edge diagnostic tools to get real-time insights into your soft tissue, joints and structures to provide a fast and accurate diagnosis.

DETAILED REPORT

Post-assessment, you will receive clear and comprehensive reports detailing our findings. This will allow you to make informed decisions on your treatment plan.

TREATMENT PLAN

Together with you, we formulate a comprehensive and personalised treatment plan that suit your goals and preferences.

Advanced Technology

As a leading podiatry clinic in Singapore, we stand out by offering advanced gait analysis and in-house 3D-printed insoles, all accompanied by a comprehensive report to provide unparalleled insights into your lower limb biomechanics.

Elite Care for Every Individual

Our podiatry services offer personalised, evidence-based care for a wide range of individuals, including athletes, adults and children. So if you’re experiencing lower limb pain, our expert team can provide comprehensive support to get you back to doing the things you love.

Team of Experts with Optimal Results

We offer more than just solutions for your injury or pain. Through UFIT's integrated Circle of Care, you gain access to our team of expert podiatrists and other healthcare professionals, bringing together a vast range of experience and knowledge to achieve optimal outcomes for your foot and lower limb health.

Hear from our Clients

Claire OngUFIT Podiatry Client
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“I recently had an appointment with podiatrist Lewis Nurney at UFIT, and it was a wonderful experience. I’ve been dealing with a long-standing issue, but with Lewis’s expertise, kindness, and patience in listening to my concerns, I’ve finally been able to solve the problem and feel so much better.

The clinic is modern with high-tech equipment, and Lewis explained everything clearly, making me feel confident in the treatment plan. Now I’m feeling ready and prepared for the 10K Standard Chartered Marathon! If you’re looking for expert podiatry care, I highly recommend Lewis and the team at UFIT!”

Arvin Narain SilvaUFIT Podiatry Client
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Came back to UFIT today after a year since my last consultation with Lewis Nurney. I was very relieved to know that my Achilles issues can be fixed with Lewis’s great advice. He would show me how to perform rehab exercises that will be able to help me throughout my recovery. I highly recommend UFIT podiatry to anyone in need of advice or help.”

Yashasvi PariharUFIT Podiatry Client
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“I had the pleasure of visiting Dr. Lewis through a recommendation and it turned out to be an excellent one, particularly after experiencing so many already. The thoroughness of his examination and help at each step of the process is beyond impressive. He took the time to listen to all my concerns and thoroughly explained my diagnosis and treatment options.

He made sure that I was well-informed and comfortable with the decisions being made without any pushing. I would highly recommend him for anyone in need of a skilled and caring podiatrist.”

Lewis Nurney

Lewis is a highly experienced podiatrist with over 5 years of practice in Singapore, bringing his expertise to UFIT's comprehensive Circle of Care. As Head of Podiatry at UFIT Club Street, he specialises in sports podiatry, innovative orthotics for adults and children (including 3D-printed custom insoles, Paediatric AFOs and SMOs for pediatric flat feet), and minimally invasive procedures.

A first-class honours graduate from the University of Huddersfield (UK), Lewis holds dual certifications in Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), Diagnostic Ultrasound and Running Gait analysis. Previously with East Coast Podiatry, he now provides patient-centred care at UFIT, specialising in non-surgical management of conditions like Foot Pain, Plantar Fasciitis and Achilles Tendinopathy in both children and adults, ultimately focused on alleviating discomfort and restoring optimal foot function.

Elliot Yeldham

Elliott is a dedicated podiatrist with over 7 years of healthcare experience, gained in both the UK's National Health Service (NHS) and private practice. He holds an Honours degree in Podiatry from Cardiff Metropolitan University (Wales), and brings a wealth of expertise to Singapore.

Specialising in Musculoskeletal (MSK) podiatry, Elliott's interests include sport podiatry and the management of gait abnormalities in both adults and children. He is also recognised for his skill and patient-focused approach in minimally invasive procedures for ingrown toenails and wart removal. Committed to a patient-centred and multidisciplinary model, Elliott actively stays informed of the latest healthcare advancements through clinical research and international conferences.

Frequently Asked Questions about Foot and Ankle Joint Pain

Is joint pain common as we age?

Yes, joint pain tends to become more common with age due to natural wear and tear of the cartilage, reduced joint fluid, and age-related changes in soft tissues. However, it’s not something that should be dismissed as “normal” aging, appropriate care can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Can joint pain in the legs or feet be a sign of arthritis?

Yes, arthritis is one of the most common causes of foot joint pain and ankle joint pain. Osteoarthritis can result from long-term wear, while inflammatory types like rheumatoid arthritis can also affect these joints. A thorough assessment is essential to determine the underlying cause.

Can joint pain in my feet be caused by improper footwear?

Yes, footwear that lacks adequate support, cushioning, or proper fit can contribute to foot and ankle pain. Poor shoe choices can strain the joints, alter gait, and lead to overuse injuries over time. Supportive and well-fitted footwear is an important part of joint care.

Can joint pain go away on its own?

Mild cases of joint discomfort may resolve with rest, activity modification, and self-care. However, persistent or worsening symptoms may indicate an underlying issue that requires assessment. Early intervention can help prevent more serious joint conditions from developing.

What are the long-term effects of untreated joint pain?

If left untreated, foot and ankle joint pain can lead to chronic inflammation, joint stiffness, reduced mobility, and eventual structural damage. It may also affect posture and movement patterns, increasing the risk of injury in other areas of the body.

How can a podiatry specialist help improve relief from joint pain?

A medical professional for lower limb care, such as a podiatrist in Singapore, can identify the root cause of your symptoms and recommend a targeted care plan for foot joint pain. This may include manual therapy, orthotics, exercise prescription, or referrals for further investigations if necessary.a

Can physical therapy help with joint pain?

Yes, physical therapy is a key component of managing aching joints in the lower limbs. It can improve joint function, reduce pain, and strengthen the surrounding muscles to support the affected area. A podiatrist or physiotherapist can tailor therapy to your specific needs.

Can ankle joint pain be corrected without surgery?

Many cases of ankle joint pain can be managed effectively without surgery through a combination of conservative treatments and care plans, such as orthotics, physiotherapy, joint mobilisation, and activity adjustments. Surgical intervention is usually considered only when conservative measures are insufficient.

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Joint Pain: Foot, Ankle & Leg Therapy

Joint Pain: Foot, Ankle & Leg Therapy

What is Joint Pain?

Causes of Joint Pain

Common Types of Joint Pain

Foot Joint Pain

Ankle Joint Pain

Leg Joint Pain

Toe Joint Pain

Achy Joints in Foot & Ankle

What is Joint Pain?

Symptoms of Joint Pain

Pain

Swelling

Stiffness

Heat and Redness

Instability

Decreased Mobility

Causes of Joint Pain

Book online & save $20 on your first consultation

Our Approach to Joint Pain Therapy

Step 1. Thorough Assessment

Step 2. Customised Management Plans

Step 3. Advanced Therapies

Step 4. Custom Orthotics

Step 5. Education and Prevention

Step 6. Follow-Up Care

Our Approach to Joint Pain Therapy

Our Approach to Joint Pain Therapy

Management of Joint Pain at UFIT Podiatry

What to expect on your first visit

Book online & save $20 off your first consultation

Why Choose UFIT’s Podiatry Services?

Advanced Technology

Elite Care for Every Individual

Team of Experts with Optimal Results

Hear from our Clients

Meet Our Podiatry Team

Meet Our Podiatry Team

Price List

Consult A Specialist For Your Joint Pain Today

Visit Our Podiatry Clinic

Frequently Asked Questions about Foot and Ankle Joint Pain

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