Feet and ankles bear the full weight of the body and endure tremendous stress during Alaska's outdoor activities, occupational demands, and challenging winter conditions. From hikers navigating rocky trails to fishermen standing on wet decks for hours, Alaskans depend on healthy feet and ankles to maintain their active lifestyles.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain, affecting the thick band of tissue (plantar fascia) that connects the heel bone to the toes. It causes stabbing pain with the first steps of the morning or after prolonged sitting. In Alaska, plantar fasciitis is common among hikers, runners, and workers who spend long hours on their feet.
Treatment includes stretching exercises for the calf and plantar fascia, supportive footwear with proper arch support, night splints that maintain a stretch while sleeping, anti-inflammatory medications, custom orthotics for persistent cases, and cortisone injections for severe pain. Most cases resolve with conservative treatment within 6 to 12 months. Surgery is rarely needed.
Ankle Sprains
Ankle sprains are extremely common in Alaska due to uneven terrain, icy conditions, and outdoor sports. Most sprains involve the lateral (outside) ligaments and result from an inversion (inward rolling) injury. Treatment follows the RICE protocol initially, followed by progressive rehabilitation to restore strength and balance.
Severe sprains and recurrent sprains may require more intensive treatment including bracing, physical therapy, and in some cases surgical repair or reconstruction of the damaged ligaments. Chronic ankle instability from repeated sprains can lead to cartilage damage and arthritis if not properly addressed.
Achilles Tendinitis and Ruptures
The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone and is essential for walking, running, and jumping. Tendinitis (inflammation and degeneration) is common in runners and active adults, causing pain above the heel. Acute Achilles tendon rupture typically occurs during sudden acceleration or jumping and requires prompt treatment, either surgical repair or structured rehabilitation.
In Alaska, Achilles injuries are common in recreational athletes who are weekend warriors, particularly those who engage in intense activity without adequate conditioning. The cold weather can also contribute to tendon stiffness and increased injury risk if proper warm-up is neglected.
Bunions
Bunions are bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe, causing the toe to angle toward the other toes. They can be painful and make it difficult to wear shoes comfortably. Contributing factors include genetics, shoe wear, and foot mechanics. Treatment ranges from wider shoes and padding to surgical correction (bunionectomy) for severe cases.
Ankle Fractures
Ankle fractures are among the most common fractures treated in Alaska, particularly during winter months when icy conditions increase fall risk. Treatment depends on the fracture pattern and stability. Stable fractures may be treated with casting or a walking boot, while displaced or unstable fractures typically require surgical fixation with plates and screws.
Ankle Arthritis
Ankle arthritis most commonly develops after previous injuries (post-traumatic arthritis) and can cause significant pain and limitation. Treatment options include bracing, injections, and ankle fusion or ankle replacement surgery for advanced cases. Ankle replacement technology has improved significantly in recent years, making it a viable option for more patients.
Finding Foot and Ankle Specialists
Foot and ankle care in Alaska is provided by orthopedic surgeons with foot and ankle fellowship training and by podiatrists (doctors of podiatric medicine). Both specialties treat the full range of foot and ankle conditions. ANMC has a foot and ankle orthopedic surgeon, and several Anchorage practices include foot and ankle specialists.