Items filtered by date: November 2024

Tuesday, 26 November 2024 00:00

Causes and Symptoms of Sprained Ankles

An ankle sprain occurs when one or more ligaments surrounding the ankle joint are stretched or torn. This often results from a sudden twist, misstep, or uneven surface. People with high arches, weak ankle muscles, or a history of previous sprains may be more prone to this injury. Ankle sprains are typically classified into three grades, mild, moderate, and severe, depending on severity of ligament damage. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, stiffness, and difficulty bearing weight. More severe sprains can lead to ongoing discomfort and instability if not properly treated. A podiatrist plays a key role in diagnosing and managing ankle sprains by assessing the severity of the sprain and recommending appropriate treatment, including braces, exercises, or custom orthotics to support healing. Repeated sprains may increase the risk of chronic ankle instability. If you have injured your ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact one of our podiatrists from Comprehensive Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

  • Pain at the sight of the tear
  • Bruising/Swelling
  • Ankle area is tender to touch
  • In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
  • Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

  • Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
  • Stretching before exercises and sports
  • Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Lehigh Ave and Nazareth Hospital in Philadelphia, Collegeville Darby, and Langhorne, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Ankle Sprains
Tuesday, 19 November 2024 00:00

Foot and Ankle Injuries in Kids and Teens

Foot and ankle injuries are common in kids and teens, particularly those involved in sports or physical activities. Growth spurts, active play, and the demands of youth athletics place unique stress on developing bones, ligaments, and tendons. Common injuries include ankle sprains, heel pain, often from Sever’s disease, stress fractures, and overuse injuries from repetitive motion, such as running or jumping. Sever’s disease, or calcaneal apophysitis, occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress or overuse, causing heel pain and tenderness that often worsens with activity. Symptoms typically include pain, swelling, and difficulty in bearing weight. Treatment often involves rest, and a podiatrist may recommend targeted exercises or custom orthotics. If your child has incurred a foot or ankle injury, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Foot and ankle trauma is common among athletes and the elderly. If you have concerns that you may have experienced trauma to the foot and ankle, consult with one of our podiatrists from Comprehensive Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Foot and ankle trauma cover a range of injuries all over the foot; common injuries include:

  • Broken bones
  • Muscle strains
  • Injuries to the tendons and ligaments
  • Stress fractures

Symptoms

Symptoms of foot and ankle injuries vary depending on the injury, but more common ones include:

  • Bruising
  • Inflammation/ Swelling
  • Pain

Diagnosis

To properly diagnose the exact type of injury, podiatrists will conduct a number of different tests. Some of these include sensation and visual tests, X-rays, and MRIs. Medical and family histories will also be taken into account.

Treatment

Once the injury has been diagnosed, the podiatrist can than offer the best treatment options for you. In less severe cases, rest and keeping pressure off the foot may be all that’s necessary. Orthotics, such as a specially made shoes, or immobilization devices, like splints or casts, may be deemed necessary. Finally, if the injury is severe enough, surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Lehigh Ave and Nazareth Hospital in Philadelphia, Collegeville Darby, and Langhorne, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Foot and Ankle Trauma
Thursday, 14 November 2024 00:00

It's Time for Beautiful Feet

You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.

Tuesday, 12 November 2024 00:00

Understanding a Broken Pinky Toe

A broken pinky toe is a common injury that can happen in various ways, such as stubbing it against furniture, dropping something heavy on it, or experiencing repetitive stress from activities like running. If you have a broken pinky toe, you might experience sharp pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking or wearing shoes comfortably. A podiatrist can diagnose a broken toe with a thorough physical examination and imaging tests, like X-rays, to assess the extent of the injury. For treatment, buddy taping the injured pinky toe to the adjacent toe can provide stability. In more severe cases, a special shoe may be recommended to restrict movement and protect the toe during healing. Recovery usually takes about four to six weeks, but this can vary depending on the severity of the fracture and your overall health. If you think you might have a broken pinky toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. They can provide the right diagnosis and treatment plan to ensure proper healing.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Comprehensive Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

  • Swelling
  • Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
  • Stiffness
  • Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Lehigh Ave and Nazareth Hospital in Philadelphia, Collegeville Darby, and Langhorne, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about What to Know About a Broken Toe
Tuesday, 05 November 2024 00:00

Bunion Problems

A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, causing the toe to shift toward the others. This misalignment often results from wearing tight or narrow shoes, although genetics, arthritis, or foot structure abnormalities can also contribute. Over time, the joint at the base of the big toe becomes swollen and painful. Symptoms include discomfort, redness, swelling, and difficulty walking, especially when wearing shoes. As the condition progresses, corns or calluses may form where the toes rub together. A podiatrist typically diagnoses bunions through a physical exam and may use X-rays to assess the severity and joint damage.Treatment can involve wearing wider shoes, using padding and orthotics to relieve pressure. In more advanced cases, surgery, called a bunionectomy, may be necessary to correct the deformity. Early intervention can help manage symptoms and prevent progression. If you have a painful bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and relief options.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Comprehensive Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

  • Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
  • Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
  • Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
  • Orthotics or foot inserts
  • Surgery

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Lehigh Ave and Nazareth Hospital in Philadelphia, Collegeville Darby, and Langhorne, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about What Are Bunions?

Connect With Us

scroll to top