Ankle sprains and instability, Achilles injuries, fractures and heel pain. Find out what’s causing your foot or ankle pain and how to treat it.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Nicolás Zarur · Updated October 2026
An ankle sprain is the most common sports injury, and many people never get it properly treated. The result can be an ankle that keeps twisting. Whether it’s a recent injury or pain that won’t go away, the right diagnosis gets you back on your feet.
Stretched or torn ligaments after rolling the ankle, very common in football and basketball.
Repeated sprains that leave the ankle weak and loose. May need ligament repair.
From irritation of the tendon to a complete tear, often felt like a kick in the calf.
Breaks after a fall, a twist or a direct blow that need prompt treatment.
Heel pain from irritated tissue under the foot, worse with the first steps of the day.
Damage or bone spurs inside the joint that cause pain with activity.
Dr. Zarur examines the stability of the ankle and the tendons and, when needed, orders X-rays, ultrasound or an MRI. A well-treated sprain today prevents an unstable ankle tomorrow.
Non-surgical
Rest, ice, a brace or walking boot, and physical therapy focused on balance and strength.
Immobilization
A boot or cast for some fractures and Achilles injuries.
Arthroscopy
Minimally invasive surgery for cartilage damage, impingement and loose bodies in the ankle. [Confirm Dr. Zarur performs it.]
Repair and fixation
Ligament reconstruction for chronic instability, Achilles repair or fracture fixation.
If you can’t put weight on the foot or the bone hurts when pressed, you need an X-ray. Only an exam and imaging can tell them apart.
Mild sprains improve in 1 to 3 weeks; severe sprains can take 6 weeks or more. Rehab with balance exercises helps prevent new sprains.
After a poorly healed sprain, ligaments can stay loose and balance gets worse. A specific rehab program, or sometimes surgery, can fix it.
Not always. Some ruptures are treated with a boot and rehab, while active patients often benefit from surgery. Dr. Zarur explains the options for your case.
Yes. Our Tijuana office is minutes from San Diego, and we offer remote review of your imaging before you travel.
Book a visit in Tijuana or Mexico City, or send us your imaging for a remote review.
Get a clear diagnosis and honest options. We reply within one business day.
Trusted by Champions
Former President of the Mexican Football Federation’s Medical Commission and team physician for Cruz Azul, Morelia, Veracruz and Frontón México.
