An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments supporting the ankle stretch or tear, often caused by sudden twisting or rolling of the foot. This injury is common during sports, walking on uneven ground, or footwear that lacks adequate support. Causes include awkward landings or falls, while risk factors involve weak ankles, previous injuries, and poor balance. Symptoms of an ankle sprain include swelling, bruising, pain, and difficulty walking. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity of the sprain through examination and imaging, then develop a treatment plan that may include rest strategies, bracing, and custom orthotics. If you have injured your ankle, it is suggested that you promptly schedule a podiatry appointment to begin an effective treatment plan.
Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Comprehensive Foot & Ankle Centers. 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 take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.
What Are the Symptoms?
Mild to moderate bruising
Limited mobility
Swelling
Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)
Preventing a Sprain
Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
Stretching before exercises and sports
Knowing your limits
Treatment of a Sprain
Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity. Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.
If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Shepherdsvilleand Louisville, KY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, as the top of the toe shifts inward. This condition often results from pressure on the foot over time, leading to joint misalignment. Common causes include improper footwear, genetics, flat feet, or certain medical conditions. Symptoms may involve pain, redness, swelling, and difficulty wearing shoes. Risk factors include family history, tight or narrow footwear, and occupations that place stress on the feet. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity, provide pain relief, recommend orthotics, and discuss treatment options. If you notice a growing bump or discomfort at the base of your big toe, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.
Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.
Causes
Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development
Symptoms
Redness and inflammation
Pain and tenderness
Callus or corns on the bump
Restricted motion in the big toe
In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Shepherdsvilleand Louisville, KY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!
Shoes can have a significant effect on the health of your feet, especially when worn for extended periods of time on hard surfaces. Inadequate support may increase stress on the heel and forefoot, potentially contributing to conditions like plantar fasciitis, calluses, or metatarsalgia. Shoes lacking proper cushioning or arch support may fail to distribute pressure evenly. Restrictive styles, such as high heels, can alter foot posture and lead to bunions, claw toes, or thickened nails. Foot pain can also result from wearing poorly fitted or overly rigid footwear, which interferes with natural foot motion and joint alignment. People engaged in sports should select shoes specific to that activity and that provide adequate shock absorption and lateral stability. Alternating shoes regularly helps reduce repetitive stress and allows structural materials to recover. Shoe inserts, when prescribed by a podiatrist, may help improve foot posture and alleviate pain. If you experience foot pain after wearing certain shoes, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment, in addition to guidance on how to choose proper footwear.
Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of one of our podiatrists from Comprehensive Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctors will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Getting the Right Shoe Size
There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.
When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes
As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Shepherdsvilleand Louisville, KY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
