Foot and ankle doctor in San Francisco and Santa Barbara
Every step depends on your feet and ankles. Dr. Christian Guier treats sprains, tendon problems, heel pain and fractures so you can walk, run and hike comfortably again.
Common foot and ankle problems
Ankle sprains
Rolling the ankle stretches or tears the ligaments on the outside of the ankle. Repeated sprains can lead to an ankle that keeps giving way.
Achilles tendinitis and ruptures
The Achilles tendon connects the calf to the heel. Overuse causes pain and stiffness, and a rupture often feels like a kick to the back of the leg.
Plantar fasciitis
Irritation of the thick band along the bottom of the foot causes heel pain that's usually worst with the first steps in the morning.
Fractures and stress fractures
Broken bones in the ankle and foot can happen with a twist or fall, and stress fractures can develop with repeated impact.
Tendon problems
The tendons along the inside and outside of the ankle can become inflamed or torn, causing pain, swelling and weakness.
Foot and ankle arthritis
Cartilage wear, sometimes after an old injury, causes stiffness and pain with walking.
When to see an orthopedic surgeon
- Swelling and bruising after a twist or fall
- An ankle that keeps rolling or giving way
- Sudden pain at the back of the heel
- Heel pain that lasts more than a few weeks
- Pain that gets worse with activity and doesn't go away
Get emergency care if
You can't take four steps after an injury, the foot or ankle looks deformed, the skin is broken over the injury, or your toes are cold or numb.
Christian A. Guier, MD CM, FAAOS, FACS
How Dr. Guier evaluates your foot and ankle
Dr. Guier looks at how you stand and walk, checks the ligaments and tendons, and presses on key spots to find the source of pain. X-rays are often used after an injury, with an MRI when a tendon injury or stress fracture is suspected.
He'll review any X-rays or MRI with you and explain what they show before discussing options.
Non-surgical care
- Rest, ice, compression and elevation after an injury
- A walking boot or brace
- Physical therapy, including balance training
- Supportive shoes or orthotics
- Stretching programs
- Anti-inflammatory medication when appropriate
When surgery may help
- Achilles tendon repair
- Ankle ligament reconstruction
- Ankle and foot fracture repair
- Ankle arthroscopy
Surgery may be considered for some fractures, tendon ruptures, or ankles that stay unstable after rehabilitation.
Dr. Guier will walk you through every reasonable option and help you choose what fits your goals.
What patients say
I have seen him for years, and he always takes time to explain and show the issues and makes sure I understand.
Dr. Guier is excellent, knowledgeable, and kind. I had a wonderful first appointment.
Dr Guier was fantastic - thorough and explained his thoughts and diagnosis really simply and clearly. Highly recommended.
Foot and ankle questions
Get back on your feet.
Request a consultation in San Francisco, Santa Barbara or by video.
This page is for general education and isn't medical advice. For advice about your situation, request a consultation. Last updated September 2026.