-
But what kind of doctor?
Should I See a Podiatrist or Orthopedist for Foot Pain or Ankle Pain?
While both podiatrists and orthopedists are equipped to address foot and ankle conditions, it's essential to consider the specific type of pain you're experiencing and whether it's isolated or part of a broader issue. Both specialists are trained to manage disorders affecting the bones, ligaments, muscles, and tendons in the feet and ankles, and there is considerable overlap in the treatments they provide.
At Orthopaedic Associates of Maine, our orthopedic surgeons prioritize conservative, non-surgical treatments whenever possible. We believe in the importance of physical therapy and pain management as foundational elements of our care approach.
It's important to note that while podiatrists focus solely on foot and ankle issues, orthopedists receive comprehensive training to address a wide range of musculoskeletal problems throughout the body. Understanding this distinction is crucial, as your foot or ankle condition may be linked to imbalances, discomfort, or injuries in other areas.
Our team includes an orthopedic surgeon with specialized training in foot and ankle surgery, along with two sports medicine physicians dedicated to treating foot and ankle disorders. We offer care at three convenient locations: Brunswick, Portland, and Windham.
If you do need surgery, orthopedic surgeon Dirk Asherman, MD, performs most of these foot and ankle procedures on an outpatient basis. This means you'll be able to go home the same day.
At Orthopaedic Associates of Maine, we pride ourselves on being one of the most experienced ambulatory surgery teams in the region, performing thousands of outpatient procedures annually. We are honored to have our Ambulatory Surgery Center recognized as the Best Orthopedics and Spine ASC by U.S. News and World Report in 2024, making us the only ASC in Maine to achieve this prestigious designation.
What Kind of Foot and Ankle Conditions Do You Treat?
Orthopaedic Associates of Maine offers a wide variety of treatment options for many foot and ankle issues, including:
- Achilles tendon tears (the Achilles tendon is located at the back of the lower leg and ankle, connecting the calf muscles to the heel, and is the largest tendon in the body.)
- Arthritis
- Arthritis of the ankle; this includes a variety conditions that cause cartilage in the ankle joint to break down, leading to pain and stiffness
- Arthritis of the base of the big toe (the most common type of arthritis in the foot)
- Midfoot arthritis (pain and swelling in the middle of the foot that gets worse when you stand or walk)
- Rheumatoid arthritis (a systemic disease that attacks multiple joints throughout the body
- Flat feet (when arches on the inside of the feet flatten when pressure is put on them; most people experience no pain with this condition but if you do experience pain, there are several non-surgical treatments that can help)
- Fractures (including a broken ankle)
- Plantar Fasciitis and Bone Spurs
- Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia, a strong band of tissue that supports the arch of your foot, becomes irritated and inflamed.
- Bone spurs are smooth, hard bumps of extra bone that form on the ends of bones. They often occur in the joints — the places where two bones meet.
- Sports injuries
- Sprains and strains
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome (compression, or squeezing, on a specific nerve in the foot that produces symptoms anywhere along a path from the inside of the ankle into the foot) — similar to carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist
- Tendinitis (inflammation of the thick fibrous cords — called tendons — that attach muscle to bone)
- Tumors
An Ounce of Prevention for Your Feet and Ankles: Running Analysis
If you're currently dealing with foot or ankle pain, it's essential to consult a doctor to understand the underlying cause and find a solution. But did you know that we at Orthopaedic Associates of Maine also provide a chance to enhance your running form—potentially preventing discomfort and injury in the process?
Statistics show that around 65% of runners face injuries each year that hinder their ability to run. That's why our dedicated physical therapy team offers comprehensive running analysis assessments. These evaluations not only help prevent injuries but also enhance your overall running performance.
What Happens in a Running Analysis?
During your running assessment, an OA of Maine physical therapist will utilize video to analyze various aspects of your technique, including your arm swing, stride, strength, and overall mechanics. They will evaluate your running both in your regular shoes and barefoot to identify any faulty body mechanics. Please remember to bring your running shoes and wear comfortable, fitted clothing to ensure your arms and legs are clearly visible.
Be prepared to run! The comprehensive assessment will take about one to two hours, although you won't be running the entire time. It includes a thorough physical evaluation along with detailed video gait analysis.
Our skilled clinicians, who specialize in running biomechanics, are equipped with advanced training and utilize the latest research to provide an evidence-based approach to injury treatment and prevention. Whether you're new to running or a seasoned marathoner, this assessment will help you enhance your performance and enjoyment of the sport.
You can conveniently schedule your running assessment at any of OA of Maine's three locations: Brunswick, Portland, or Windham. We accept most insurance plans, and while some may require a physician referral, we also offer a self-pay option. Call us at 207-828-2100 to discuss your needs and arrange your assessment.
If you're looking to prevent injuries or need assistance in identifying and treating foot or ankle pain—whether it's new or chronic—Orthopaedic Associates of Maine is here to help you take your next steps with confidence.