When foot or ankle pain interferes with your daily life, finding the right specialist is the first step toward lasting relief. Conditions like ankle arthritis and Achilles tendon injuries are common, yet often misunderstood. They require precise diagnosis and advanced treatment to restore mobility, reduce pain, and prevent long-term complications.

For residents of McKinney, TX, consulting one of the top orthopedic surgeons in McKinney, such as Dr. Eitan Ingall, MD, ensures comprehensive and personalized care. With fellowship training in foot and ankle surgery, Dr. Ingall offers advanced expertise in treating ankle arthritis, Achilles tendon injuries, and other complex orthopedic conditions.

This guide explores the causes, symptoms, and treatments for ankle arthritis and Achilles tendon injuries, along with why choosing the right orthopedic specialist makes all the difference.

The Role of an Orthopedic Surgeon in Foot and Ankle Care

Orthopedic surgeons are highly trained medical specialists who diagnose, treat, and prevent disorders of the bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. When it comes to foot and ankle issues, a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon provides an even deeper level of expertise.

Patients in McKinney, TX, benefit from:

• Accurate diagnosis using advanced imaging and clinical evaluation.
  
• Tailored treatment plans that fit lifestyle, activity levels, and overall health.
  
• Non-surgical care options include physical therapy, injections, and bracing.
  
• Advanced surgical procedures such as minimally invasive techniques, joint replacement, or tendon repair.
  

Choosing from the top orthopedic surgeons in McKinney, TX, ensures you’re getting the most effective care for your specific condition.

Understanding Ankle Arthritis

What is Ankle Arthritis?

Ankle arthritis occurs when the cartilage that cushions the bones in your ankle joint wears down, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling. Unlike arthritis in the hip or knee, ankle arthritis often develops after an injury such as a fracture, ligament tear, or repeated sprains.

Common Symptoms of Ankle Arthritis:

• Persistent pain that worsens with activity.
  
• Stiffness and reduced range of motion.
  
• Swelling and tenderness around the joint.
  
• Difficulty walking on uneven surfaces.
  
• Bone spurs or joint deformity in advanced cases.
  

Ankle Arthritis Treatment Options

When it comes to ankle arthritis treatment, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. A specialist like Dr. Eitan Ingall, MD tailors the approach based on the severity of arthritis, patient activity levels, and overall health.

Non-Surgical Treatments

• Lifestyle modifications – Reducing high-impact activities that aggravate the joint.
  
• Medications – Anti-inflammatories or pain relievers to manage symptoms.
  
• Bracing or orthotics – Supportive devices to reduce stress on the ankle joint.
  
• Physical therapy – Exercises to strengthen supporting muscles and improve flexibility.
  
• Corticosteroid injections – Targeted relief to reduce inflammation and pain.
  

Surgical Treatments

When conservative care is no longer effective, surgery may be recommended:

• Arthroscopy – A minimally invasive procedure to clean out inflamed tissue and bone spurs.
  
• Ankle fusion (arthrodesis) – Fusing bones together to eliminate pain-causing movement.
  
• Total ankle replacement – Replacing the damaged joint with an artificial implant for improved mobility and pain relief.
  

With the expertise of a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon, patients in McKinney have access to advanced ankle arthritis treatments that restore quality of life.

Understanding Achilles Tendon Injuries

What is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is the strongest tendon in the body, connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. It plays a vital role in walking, running, and jumping. Unfortunately, it is also one of the most frequently injured tendons.

Types of Achilles Tendon Problems:

1. Achilles Tendonitis – Inflammation caused by overuse, leading to pain and stiffness.
   
2. Achilles Tendinosis – Chronic degeneration due to repeated stress or micro-tears.
   
3. Achilles Tendon Rupture – A partial or complete tear, often accompanied by a “popping” sound.
   

Symptoms of Achilles Tendon Injuries:

• Sharp pain or stiffness at the back of the heel.
  
• Swelling or tenderness along the tendon.
  
• Pain that worsens with activity.
  
• Inability to push off the foot or stand on tiptoe (with ruptures).
  

Achilles Tendon Treatment in McKinney, TX

Effective Achilles tendon treatment in McKinney, TX focuses on reducing pain, restoring strength, and preventing reinjury.

Non-Surgical Treatments

• Rest and activity modification – Allowing the tendon to heal without added strain.
  
• Ice and anti-inflammatory medications – To reduce pain and swelling.
  
• Physical therapy – Stretching and strengthening exercises tailored to tendon healing.
  
• Orthotic inserts or heel lifts – To reduce stress on the tendon during activity.
  

Surgical Treatments

For ruptures or severe tendon degeneration, surgery may be necessary. Options include:

• Tendon repair surgery – Reattaching the torn tendon.
  
• Minimally invasive techniques – Smaller incisions that reduce recovery time.
  
• Reconstructive surgery – For complex or chronic tendon issues, sometimes using grafts.
  

With advanced training and minimally invasive expertise, Dr. Eitan Ingall, MD provides comprehensive Achilles tendon treatments designed for faster, more complete recovery.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery plays a critical role in both ankle arthritis and Achilles tendon treatment. The process typically includes:

• Immobilization with a cast, splint, or boot after surgery or severe injuries.
  
• Gradual weight-bearing guided by the surgeon.
  
• Physical therapy to restore strength, flexibility, and balance.
  
• Ongoing follow-ups to ensure proper healing and prevent complications.
  

Patients who follow their specialist’s instructions closely often experience quicker recovery and better long-term outcomes.

Prevention Tips for Ankle and Achilles Injuries

While not all injuries can be avoided, patients can take steps to protect their ankle health:

• Wear supportive footwear during sports and daily activities.
  
• Warm up and stretch before exercise.
  
• Avoid sudden increases in physical activity intensity.
  
• Strengthen calf and ankle muscles to support the joint.
  
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce joint stress.
  

These preventive measures, combined with expert care from a foot and ankle specialist in McKinney, help reduce the risk of recurrent injuries.

Why Choose Dr. Eitan Ingall, MD in McKinney, TX

When dealing with ankle arthritis or Achilles tendon injuries, choosing the right specialist is key. Dr. Eitan Ingall, MD, one of the top orthopedic surgeons in McKinney, TX, offers:

• Fellowship training in advanced foot and ankle surgery.
  
• Expertise in both non-surgical and surgical treatments.
  
• Use of minimally invasive techniques for faster recovery.
  
• A patient-first approach focused on compassionate, personalized care.
  

Whether you’re struggling with arthritis pain or recovering from an Achilles injury, Dr. Ingall provides the comprehensive care needed to restore mobility and improve quality of life.

Conclusion

Ankle arthritis and Achilles tendon injuries can significantly affect your ability to stay active, but effective treatment is available. From conservative therapies to advanced surgical solutions, the key is consulting an experienced orthopedic specialist. For those in McKinney, TX, Dr. Eitan Ingall, MD, offers expert care for both ankle arthritis treatment and Achilles tendon treatment. With advanced training, minimally invasive expertise, and a patient-centered approach, Dr. Ingall ensures each patient receives personalized treatment to achieve the best possible outcome.

If you’re looking for the top orthopedic surgeons in McKinney, TX, schedule a consultation with Dr. Ingall today and take the first step toward pain relief, recovery, and long-term foot and ankle health.