Foot or ankle pain: virtual consult with an orthopedist
Your feet and ankles support you with every step. A sprain, heel pain, or an ache that won't go away can make walking, working, or playing sports difficult. I'm Dr. Jaime Ulloa Gil, an orthopedist and traumatologist with a focus on sports medicine, and I see patients by video call in Costa Rica.
Common problems I evaluate
Ankle sprains, recent or recurring
A feeling that the ankle is unstable or "gives way"
Heel pain and plantar fasciitis
Achilles tendinitis or tendinopathy
Bunions (hallux valgus) and big toe pain
Pain in the ball of the foot (metatarsalgia)
What a virtual consult can do for you
Take your history: how the pain started, which activities make it worse, and what shoes you wear.
Perform a guided physical exam by video, including how you stand and walk.
Review your X-rays, ultrasound, MRI, and previous reports.
Give you a working diagnosis and a treatment plan.
Guide exercises, rehabilitation, and footwear choices.
Order imaging or refer you when needed.
Some cases need an in-person exam or additional imaging. If yours does, I'll tell you clearly and help you with the next steps.
How to prepare
Have your imaging and prior medical reports ready.
Wear shorts or pants you can roll up, and be barefoot or in socks that are easy to remove so the foot and ankle can be seen.
Keep the shoes you wear most often nearby.
Choose a quiet, well-lit space with room to walk a few steps.
Check that your camera, microphone, and internet connection work.
When to seek urgent in-person care
Go to an emergency service right away or call 911 if you have: an obvious deformity, exposed bone, or open wound after an injury; inability to put weight on the foot after a blow or twist; a cold, pale, or numb foot; a pop with sudden pain at the back of the ankle and difficulty walking; or a red, hot, swollen foot with fever, especially if you have diabetes or a wound that isn't healing.
Book your consult
Get back on your feet with more confidence. Book your virtual consult or message me on WhatsApp.