Foot & Ankle Care

When you have a foot or ankle condition, the most basic activities — from walking through the grocery store to driving your car — can become a challenge.

Count on us to help you move well and without pain. We are ranked among the top 50 in the nation for orthopedic care by U.S. News & World Report.

When to See a Foot and Ankle Specialist

If you have foot or ankle pain that lasts more than a week, you should see a foot and ankle specialist. An early diagnosis and the right treatment can prevent you from doing serious or permanent damage to your foot or ankle.

Do I Need a Referral for Orthopedic Care?

You can make an appointment with one of our foot and ankle specialists directly without a referral. If you have an HMO, however, your insurance plan may require a referral from your primary care physician.

Conditions Treated

Your UC San Diego Health team treats all types of foot and ankle conditions, such as:

• Arthritis, including "stiff big toe"
• Achilles tendon injuries, including Haglund’s disease
• Ankle sprains
• Bunions
• Fractures
• Hammertoe
• Heel pain
• Lisfranc injuries
• Morton's neuroma and other nerve disorders
• Plantar fasciitis
• Sesamoiditis

Evaluation and Diagnosis

At UC San Diego Health, you receive a complete workup of your foot or ankle condition. This includes a careful review of your health history, current symptoms, a physical exam, and X-rays. You may also be asked to bring in the shoes you wear. An MRI or bone scan may be performed if there are inconsistencies in your diagnosis, symptoms or response to treatment. Once you have a diagnosis, you and your doctor can discuss your treatment options and goals.

Comprehensive Care

Your UC San Diego Health care team includes a podiatrist, orthopedic surgeon, nurse practitioner and physician assistant. Together, they provide you with comprehensive care for your condition. If your foot or ankle condition is related to a sports injury, our athletic trainer can help you regain high-level function and performance with targeted exercise for your sport.