Foot and Ankle Specialists in Missoula, Montana
Specialties
Foot and Ankle Health Starts at Northern Rockies Orthopaedic
Foot and ankle problems can affect every step you take, but the experienced foot and ankle specialists in Missoula, Montana, at Northern Rockies Orthopaedic are here to help. Our team of skilled foot and ankle surgeons provides personalized care for a wide range of foot and ankle conditions, including plantar fasciitis, heel pain, flat feet, arthritis, and sports injuries.
We offer both non-surgical treatments and advanced minimally invasive surgeries to relieve pain, reduce swelling, and improve mobility. Whether you’re dealing with tendon injuries, deformities, or complications like diabetic ulcers and ingrown toenails, we’re committed to delivering quality care that supports your full recovery. Call (406) 728-6101 or contact us online to schedule your appointment today.
Common Foot and Ankle Conditions We Treat at Northern Rockies Orthopaedic
Foot and ankle problems can affect anyone, including athletes, individuals who work on their feet all day, or those simply going about their daily lives. At Northern Rockies Orthopaedic, we treat a full range of foot and ankle conditions that impact comfort, mobility, and long-term ankle health.
Our foot and ankle surgeons use advanced diagnostics and effective treatments to relieve chronic pain, correct deformities, and restore strength and balance. From mild discomfort to severe injury, our team provides comprehensive care tailored to each patient’s needs.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, especially among runners and people who spend long hours on their feet. It results from inflammation of the thick band of tissue (plantar fascia) that supports the arch of the foot. Symptoms often include stabbing pain near the heel, especially with the first steps in the morning. Our foot and ankle specialists offer personalized treatment options, including physical therapy, orthotics, and minimally invasive surgeries when needed.
Achilles Tendon Injuries (Tendinitis, Rupture)
The Achilles tendon is the strongest tendon in the human body, and when it becomes inflamed or torn, it can severely limit your movement. Achilles tendinitis causes pain and swelling above the heel, while a rupture may result in a sudden pop and difficulty walking. Our Missoula foot and ankle surgeons provide surgical and non-surgical treatment plans depending on the severity of the injury, helping you regain strength and flexibility in the ankle.
Ankle Sprains and Chronic Instability
An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle joint are stretched or torn, often due to a sudden twist or fall. Repeated sprains can lead to chronic instability, making it difficult to trust your ankle during physical activity. We offer advanced care for both acute and recurring ankle conditions, from bracing and rehabilitation to surgical ligament repair when conservative treatment isn’t enough.
Bunions and Hammertoes
Bunions are painful bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe, while hammertoes affect the middle joints of the smaller toes, especially the third and fourth toes. These deformities can worsen over time, causing pain, difficulty fitting into shoes, and changes in walking. Our orthopedic team uses traditional and new techniques to correct alignment, relieve pressure, and restore natural foot function.
Flatfoot and High Arches
Both flat feet and overly high arches can affect the alignment of the foot and ankle, leading to discomfort, poor balance, and long-term joint strain. Whether congenital or developed over time, these structural foot issues can be managed with supportive orthotics, bracing, or surgical correction in more advanced cases. We provide comprehensive foot care designed to support the arch and reduce stress on the ankle joint.
Heel Pain and Heel Spurs
Heel pain can stem from a variety of causes, including plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, or bony outgrowths known as heel spurs. These issues often result in sharp pain while walking or standing. Our foot and ankle specialists evaluate the source of your discomfort and recommend effective options, such as custom orthotics, targeted injections, or minimally invasive surgeries when necessary.
Stress Fractures and Traumatic Injuries
Stress fractures are tiny cracks in the bones of the foot or ankle that result from overuse or repetitive impact, while traumatic injuries often come from falls or sports accidents. These injuries can cause intense pain, swelling, and reduced mobility. Our foot and ankle surgeons offer prompt diagnosis and individualized care, from immobilization and rest to surgical techniques for complex fractures.
Arthritis in the Foot and Ankle
Arthritis in the foot and ankle can cause stiffness, swelling, and constant pain. Whether it’s osteoarthritis from wear and tear or rheumatoid arthritis affecting joint health, our foot and ankle doctors provide comprehensive care to reduce inflammation and preserve function. We may recommend joint injections, bracing, or advanced surgical procedures depending on the severity of the condition.
Morton’s Neuroma and Nerve Compression
Morton’s neuroma involves a thickening of nerve tissue between the third and fourth toes, causing burning, tingling, or numbness in the foot. It often feels like standing on a pebble inside your shoe. Left untreated, the condition can worsen and affect your quality of life.
Diabetic Ulcers
People with diabetes may develop diabetic ulcers, open sores on the foot caused by poor circulation and reduced sensation. These wounds can lead to serious infections if not treated promptly. Our foot and ankle surgeons have experience treating diabetic-related foot and ankle injuries, providing wound management, custom footwear, and strategies to protect ankle health and prevent complications.
Signs You Should See a Foot and Ankle Specialist in Missoula, Montana
If you’re dealing with persistent foot or ankle pain, it may be time to consult the foot and ankle specialists at NRO. Ongoing discomfort, swelling, or difficulty walking are common signs of underlying foot and ankle conditions that require professional evaluation. Pain that interferes with daily activity, worsens over time, or doesn’t respond to rest should never be ignored.
Other warning signs include deformities such as bunions or hammertoes, recurring ankle sprains, or heel pain that makes it difficult to stand in the morning. Numbness, tingling, or burning between the toes, especially the third and fourth toes, may indicate nerve compression, while open wounds like diabetic ulcers require urgent attention.
If you’ve suffered a recent injury, struggle to find comfortable shoes, or notice increasing instability, don’t wait. Ankle health starts with early diagnosis and the right treatment. Contact our office to schedule a same-day appointment and take the first step toward lasting relief.
Personalized Diagnostic Approach with Our Missoula Foot and Ankle Surgeons
At Northern Rockies Orthopaedic, our foot and ankle surgeons know that each patient is unique, and so is their pain, injury, or underlying issue. During your visit, our team of experienced foot and ankle specialists will take the time to listen to your symptoms, examine your foot, ankle joint, and toes, and assess your mobility. We use advanced imaging, such as digital X-rays and MRIs, to look beneath the surface and pinpoint the cause of heel pain, swelling, tendon injuries, or nerve pressure.
Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, sports injuries, or structural deformities, our goal is to identify the exact problem so we can offer the right treatment from the start. Your journey to better ankle health begins with a clear, accurate diagnosis and a compassionate team dedicated to delivering quality care every step of the way.
Non-Surgical Foot and Ankle Treatments Provided at Northern Rockies Orthopaedic
Many foot and ankle conditions can be treated effectively without the need for surgery. At Northern Rockies Orthopaedic, our team of Missoula foot and ankle treatment specialists offers a wide range of conservative treatment options designed to reduce pain, improve mobility, and restore long-term ankle health. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing chronic pain, or trying to avoid surgery altogether, we provide quality care that’s tailored to your individual needs and lifestyle.
Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation
Physical therapy plays an important role in helping patients recover from sports injuries, overuse conditions, and post-operative procedures. Our in-house physical therapy team develops customized programs that improve strength, restore flexibility, and reduce pressure on the foot, ankle, and tendons. From balance exercises to targeted stretching routines, physical therapy supports healing while helping prevent future injuries or flare-ups.
Custom Orthotics and Bracing
Custom orthotics and braces offer long-term relief by supporting proper alignment of the foot and ankle. These devices are especially helpful for conditions like flat feet, heel pain, and arthritis. Our specialists evaluate your walking pattern and use digital scans to design orthotics or select braces that reduce stress on the ankle joint, ease deformities, and allow for more comfortable movement in everyday shoes.
Medications and Injections for Chronic Pain
When chronic pain affects your ability to move or stand, medications and therapeutic injections can offer targeted relief. Anti-inflammatory drugs may help manage swelling associated with conditions like plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendinitis. In contrast, corticosteroid or other advanced injections can help calm inflamed tissue and provide longer-lasting comfort. These treatments are often used alongside other conservative options for maximum benefit.
Lifestyle and Activity Modifications
Sometimes, simple changes in your daily routine can significantly reduce pain and protect your ankle and foot from further damage. Our orthopedic doctors may recommend footwear adjustments, weight management, stretching exercises, or temporary activity restrictions to reduce strain on affected areas. These personalized strategies are designed to complement your overall treatment plan while promoting better long-term ankle care and function.
Advanced Foot and Ankle Surgery Options in Missoula, Montana
When conservative treatment no longer relieves pain or restores your mobility, our foot and ankle surgeons are ready to step in with advanced surgical solutions. Combining proven methods and new techniques, our team focuses on repairing damage and rebuilding strength using a range of surgical techniques, including minimally invasive surgeries designed to reduce downtime and improve recovery. Whether you’re struggling with sports injuries, joint deterioration, structural deformities, or traumatic breaks, we tailor each procedure to support your return to activity.
Minimally Invasive Foot and Ankle Surgery
Minimally invasive techniques use small incisions and specialized instruments to address issues like arthritis, tendon tears, and ankle joint impingement. These procedures often result in less swelling, less pain, and faster healing compared to traditional open surgery, allowing patients to resume daily life and athletic activities sooner.
Ankle Arthroscopy
During ankle arthroscopy, our surgeons insert a mini camera into the ankle joint to diagnose and treat conditions such as cartilage damage, loose bodies, or synchondroses. This targeted surgery preserves healthy tissue and allows for precise intervention, often performed as an outpatient procedure with a faster rehabilitation timeline than open surgery.
Ankle Ligament Reconstruction
Chronic instability from repeated ankle sprains or ligament tears may require reconstruction. Our skilled ankle specialists restore stability by using techniques that repair and reinforce damaged ligaments. This helps eliminate recurring injury, supports ankle care, and protects against future joint deterioration.
Bunion and Hammertoe Correction
Bunions and hammertoes can cause severe discomfort and shoe-fitting issues. Our surgical approach realigns the toes, relieves pressure, and addresses underlying deformities. These surgical techniques are customized based on severity and goals, with options ranging from minimally invasive procedures to traditional corrections.
Achilles Tendon Repair
Achilles tendon ruptures require prompt attention to regain function. Our surgeons offer both open and percutaneous repair for tendon tears, while chronic tendinitis may require debridement or tendon reinforcement. Rehabilitation is integrated into every treatment plan to help patients return to walking, running, or daily activities.
Ankle Fusion and Joint Replacement
For severe arthritis or joint deterioration, ankle fusion and total ankle replacement are effective options. Fusion eliminates painful movement by permanently stabilizing the ankle joint, while replacement preserves motion with a prosthetic. Our team helps patients weigh the benefits of each approach based on lifestyle, activity level, and long-term health goals.
Fracture Repair and Trauma Surgery
Complex injuries to the foot or ankle, such as displaced fractures or open wounds, often require prompt surgical repair. Our orthopedic trauma experts use internal fixation, plates, screws, and rods to realign broken bones, address swelling, and protect soft tissues.
Revision Surgeries
When previous surgeries haven’t healed properly or complications arise, our foot and ankle specialists offer revision procedures to correct issues such as non-union, persistent deformity, or chronic pain. By reassessing the underlying problem and using targeted surgical techniques, we aim to resolve failed outcomes and guide patients toward a successful recovery journey.
What to Expect During Your Appointment at Northern Rockies Orthopaedic
When you schedule an appointment with our foot and ankle specialists in Missoula, Montana, you can expect attentive, personalized care from the moment you walk into our office. During your visit, our experienced doctors will carefully review your symptoms, medical history, and any prior injuries or treatments. One of our foot and ankle specialists will perform a physical exam to check for pain, swelling, limited motion, or visible deformities in your foot, ankle, or toes. If necessary, we may use advanced imaging or pressure-mapping tools to better understand what’s causing your discomfort.
From there, our experienced orthopedic team will explain your diagnosis and go over both non-surgical and surgical treatment options, including minimally invasive surgeries, lifestyle changes, and long-term foot and ankle care strategies. We accept most forms of health insurance and offer same-day appointments when available to get you started on your journey to relief as quickly as possible.
Why Montana Patients Trust Our Missoula Foot and Ankle Surgeons
Patients across Montana turn to our Missoula-based foot and ankle surgeons because we deliver expert care with compassion, precision, and results. At Northern Rockies Orthopaedic, we combine advanced surgical techniques and modern diagnostics with a patient-first approach that values communication, comfort, and outcomes.
Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, sports injuries, heel pain, or complications like diabetic ulcers, our dedicated team of foot and ankle specialists creates a customized treatment plan that fits your goals and lifestyle. From correcting deformities in the toes or ankle joint to relieving pressure from plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendon damage, NRO provides the quality care Montana residents deserve. Your ankle health starts here, with a trusted office that puts experience and excellence into every step of your journey.
Additional Orthopedic Services Available at Northern Rockies Orthopaedic
In addition to expert foot and ankle care, Northern Rockies Orthopaedic provides a full range of orthopedic services for patients across Montana. Our experienced team of orthopedic surgeons and specialists treats injuries, chronic pain, and joint conditions affecting the knees, hips, shoulders, spine, and more. We offer a range of non-surgical therapies and advanced surgical techniques, including minimally invasive surgeries, joint replacement, and fracture care.
With on-site imaging, physical therapy, and a commitment to comprehensive treatment planning, we help patients of all ages return to pain-free movement. Call NRO today to schedule an appointment with a member of our trusted orthopedic team in Missoula.
For Comprehensive Foot and Ankle Care in Missoula, Montana, Call Northern Rockies Orthopaedic Today
If you’re ready to take the next step toward lasting relief, the trusted foot and ankle specialists at Northern Rockies Orthopaedic are here to help. We offer both non-surgical treatments and advanced surgical techniques to help restore your mobility and improve your daily life.
With same-day appointments available and most major health insurance plans accepted, there’s no reason to wait. Call (406) 728-6101 or contact us online to schedule your appointment today and begin your journey to better foot and ankle health.
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