Foot & Ankle Injury Care in Downingtown, PA – Walk In, No Appointment Needed

At AFC Urgent Care Downingtown, we know foot and ankle injuries can happen anytime — during sports, at work, or even while enjoying everyday activities. When pain strikes, you shouldn’t have to wait days for care. We’re open 7 days a week and provide fast, walk‑in treatment for a wide range of foot and ankle injuries.

What Happens When You Sprain Your Ankle?

Ankle sprains are one of the most common orthopedic injuries, accounting for nearly 40% of all ankle‑related issues. They typically occur when the ligaments that support your ankle are stretched beyond their limits due to a sudden twist, turn, or awkward landing.

Stepping off a curb incorrectly, landing wrong during a run, or making a quick pivot during a game are all common causes.

When the ligaments stretch or tear, symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe swelling and instability.

• Mild sprains: Some pain and swelling, but you can usually still walk.
• Severe sprains: Significant swelling, bruising, and difficulty putting weight on the foot.

Common Foot & Ankle Injuries We Treat

Foot and ankle injuries often happen suddenly — from slips, falls, or sports mishaps. AFC Urgent Care Downingtown provides on‑site evaluation and treatment for a wide range of orthopedic conditions.

Stress Fractures

Stress fractures develop gradually from repetitive impact rather than a single traumatic event. These tiny cracks in the bone are common in runners, dancers, and anyone who participates in high‑impact activities.

Symptoms often include:

• Localized pain
• Tenderness to touch
• Pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest

Overuse without adequate recovery time is the most common cause.

Tendonitis or Tendon Tears

Tendonitis occurs when the tendons in the foot or ankle become inflamed from overuse or repetitive motion. This is common in athletes and people whose jobs require frequent standing or movement.

Symptoms may include:

• Swelling
• Tenderness
• Pain with movement

If the tendon is overstressed, partial or full tears can occur. Tendon tears often cause more intense pain and may limit mobility.

Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most frequent causes of heel pain. It occurs when the plantar fascia — the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot — becomes irritated or inflamed.

Many people describe the first steps in the morning as feeling like “stepping on sharp pins.”
Pain is typically worse:

• First thing in the morning
• After long periods of rest
• After prolonged standing or activity

Causes include overuse, improper footwear, or high‑impact exercise.

Shin Splints

Shin splints are common among runners and athletes who engage in repetitive, high‑impact activities. Pain occurs along the inner edge of the tibia and may feel dull, sharp, or throbbing.

They are usually caused by repeated stress on the shinbone and surrounding tissues.
Most cases improve with:

• Rest
• Ice
• Stretching
• Supportive footwear

Turf Toe

Turf toe is a sprain of the ligaments around the big toe joint, typically caused by excessive bending or hyperextension. It’s especially common in football players and athletes who play on artificial turf.

Symptoms include:

• Pain
• Swelling
• Difficulty pushing off the foot

Treatment may involve rest, ice, taping, or wearing a stiff‑soled shoe or boot.

Bunions

Bunions are bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe. They develop when prolonged pressure forces the toes together, causing the joint to shift out of alignment.

Symptoms may include:

• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Difficulty wearing certain shoes

Conservative treatment includes padding, footwear changes, and orthotics.