Why does my heel hurt the most when I get out of bed in the morning?

Morning heel pain is often linked to plantar fasciitis, a common condition caused by inflammation in the foot’s arch. A podiatrist can help with long-term relief.

Do I need a podiatrist or an orthopedist for foot pain?

Podiatrists are foot and ankle specialists trained to treat everything from skin and nail issues to complex injuries and surgery. NES offers both podiatry and orthopedic care, depending on your needs.

Can a podiatrist help with broken toes or foot fractures?

Yes. NES podiatrists diagnose and treat foot and ankle fractures, offering imaging, bracing, casting, or surgery — all in-house.

How long should I wait before seeing a podiatrist for foot or ankle pain?

If your pain lasts more than a few days or keeps coming back, it’s time to see a podiatrist. NES offers same- and next-day appointments.

Who is the closest podiatrist who can see me today for ankle pain?

NES has multiple Portland-area podiatry locations and often offers same-day appointments. Use our booking tool to find the nearest available provider.

Expert Care for Ankle and Foot Sprains in Portland

Foot and ankle sprains may seem like minor injuries at first, but if left untreated, they can become serious issues that cause long-term complications. When you’ve strained the ligaments in your foot, prompt evaluation and treatment from a podiatrist can make all the difference in your recovery. At Northwest Extremity Specialists, our Portland-area podiatrists provide expert diagnosis and treatment for foot sprains, ensuring a safe and complete recovery.

Understanding Sprains: What Happens and Why It Matters

Sprains occur when ligaments—the strong bands of tissue connecting bones—are stretched or torn due to sudden movements, impacts, or overextension. With 26 bones, 33 joints, and more than 100 ligaments and tendons, the foot and ankle are especially vulnerable to this type of injury. Common causes of sprains include:

Twisting the ankle or foot awkwardly

Landing improperly after a jump

Tripping, falling, or blunt impact

Sports injuries or overuse

Both the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) and the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) emphasize that ligament injuries should be evaluated promptly to prevent further complications and ensure proper healing.

Signs Immediate Medical Attention is Necessary

Sprains range in severity, but even seemingly mild cases can worsen if left untreated. Watch for the following symptoms, and don’t hesitate to seek professional care:

Pain, swelling, and bruising around the joint

Limited range of motion

Difficulty bearing weight or walking

A popping sound or feeling at the time of injury

Numbness, tingling, or joint instability

If pain persists beyond 2–3 days or worsens despite rest, you should see a podiatrist to rule out more serious injuries like fractures or tendon damage.

Why Prompt Medical Treatment Matters

Delaying treatment for your sprain or failing to follow a proper recovery plan increases the risk of:

Incomplete healing

Ligaments may not mend properly, leading to long-term instability.

Chronic pain and arthritis

Repeated sprains can cause joint degeneration and persistent pain.

Higher reinjury risk

A weakened joint is more vulnerable to future injury.

Additional damage

Untreated sprains can mask fractures, stress injuries, or tendon tears.

At-Home Care for Minor Sprains: The RICE Method

For minor sprains involving mild ligament stretching, there are things you can do at-home care to aid healing. According to the Mayo Clinic, early intervention with the RICE Method can speed up healing and prevent the worsening of the injury, and it includes:

Rest – Avoid bearing weight on the injured foot or ankle.
Ice – Apply ice packs 15–20 minutes every few hours.
Compression – Use an elastic bandage to reduce swelling.
Elevation – Keep the injured limb raised above heart level.

While RICE can be effective for minor sprains, it is not a substitute for professional evaluation if symptoms persist or worsen.

Comprehensive Treatment Options at NES

At Northwest Extremity Specialists, our podiatrists offer individualized care plans to ensure you heal completely and avoid chronic issues. Depending on your diagnosis, treatment may include:

Physical therapy – Exercises to restore strength, flexibility, and balance.
Bracing or taping – Support to stabilize the joint during recovery.
Regenerative medicine – Advanced options like injections or shockwave therapy to accelerate healing.
Surgical repair – Reserved for severe or non-healing ligament tears.

Our expert providers will help you return to pain-free activity with a personalized recovery plan that you’re comfortable with, ensuring that it fits your needs and lifestyle.

Don’t Wait—Contact a Foot Pain Specialist Today

If you’ve suffered an ankle or foot sprain, don’t risk your long-term mobility by delaying care. Contact Northwest Extremity Specialists today to schedule a professional evaluation and start your path to a full recovery. We’re proud to provide Portland with expert foot and ankle care backed by the latest medical guidance and a commitment to your well-being.