A sudden twist or awkward landing can turn an ordinary step into a painful ankle injury. An ankle sprain occurs when ligaments, the strong bands of tissue that connect bones and stabilize the joint, stretch beyond their limits or tear. Most sprains affect the ligaments along the outside of the ankle after the foot rolls inward. Walking on uneven ground, changing direction quickly, or missing a step increases the risk. Previous sprains also leave some people more vulnerable to another one. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and bruising. The ankle may feel stiff or unstable, and putting weight on the foot may hurt.

A podiatrist evaluates an ankle sprain by asking how the injury happened and examining the painful area. Checking tenderness, joint movement, and stability helps determine which ligaments are injured. The podiatrist also checks for signs of damage beyond the ligaments. Because a fracture sometimes causes symptoms similar to a sprain, X-rays help identify or rule out broken bones. An MRI provides a closer look at ligaments and other soft tissues when symptoms suggest a more serious injury. Difficulty bearing weight or marked swelling warrants prompt assessment. An accurate diagnosis helps guide treatment and reduces the risk of overlooking another problem.

Treatment depends on the severity of the sprain and the stability of the ankle. A podiatrist may prescribe a brace or walking boot to protect injured ligaments as they heal. The treatment plan also addresses how much weight the ankle should bear. Follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to monitor healing and guide a gradual return to activity. Persistent instability sometimes requires surgery when other treatment fails. Recovery ranges from several weeks to months, depending on the severity of the sprain. Returning to sports activity too soon raises the risk of repeated sprains and chronic pain. If you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact David Reynolds, DPM from First Podiatry. Our doctor 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 office located in Evansville, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A foot stress fracture is a small crack in a bone caused by repeated stress rather than one injury. These fractures often develop when the foot does not have enough time to recover between activities. Running, jumping, and changes in activity can place extra strain on the bones. Common symptoms include localized pain, tenderness, and discomfort that becomes worse with activity. Pain may improve with rest at first, but it can become more noticeable as the injury progresses.

Several risk factors can increase the chance of a stress fracture. Wearing unsupportive footwear may add strain during exercise. Low bone density can also make bones more vulnerable. Other concerns include sudden increases in exercise and poor nutrition. A previous stress fracture may raise the risk of another injury. Pain that continues or becomes stronger should not be ignored, especially when walking starts to feel uncomfortable.

A podiatrist will begin by reviewing your symptoms, activity level, and medical history. The foot will be examined for tenderness, swelling, and areas of pain. Imaging tests may be recommended to help identify a fracture, although some stress fractures are difficult to see early. Treatment often includes reducing activities that place stress on the foot. A protective boot or other support may be suggested when needed. As healing progresses, your podiatrist can guide a gradual return to activity and discuss footwear changes that may reduce future strain.

Your feet need time to heal when a stress fracture develops. Continuing high-impact activity too soon can delay recovery and increase the chance of a more serious fracture. Paying attention to persistent foot pain and giving your body an opportunity to recover are important. If you have symptoms of a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief, treatment, and helpful prevention tips. 

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact David Reynolds, DPM from First Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Evansville, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis is a cause of heel and foot pain that develops when the plantar fascia becomes irritated. This band of tissue runs along the bottom of the foot and helps support the arch while walking. Pain develops near the heel and may feel sharp after getting out of bed. Some people notice discomfort after sitting or long periods of standing. Although plantar fasciitis can improve with care, symptoms should not be ignored because they can affect movement.

Several factors can increase the risk of developing plantar fasciitis. Increased activity, standing for a long time, and unsupportive footwear may place strain on the plantar fascia. People with flat feet or high arches may experience added stress. Weight gain can increase pressure while walking, while tight calf muscles may affect normal foot mechanics. Plantar fasciitis can develop after a sudden change in exercise, such as increasing walking or running too quickly. These stresses can create irritation that leads to significant foot pain.

A podiatrist begins by reviewing your symptoms, activities, footwear, and medical history. A foot examination can identify tenderness and evaluate your walking pattern. Imaging may be recommended when another condition needs evaluation. Treatment depends on the cause and severity of your symptoms. A podiatrist may recommend supportive shoes, custom orthotics, or stretching for the calf and plantar fascia. Other options may include night splints, targeted injections, or advanced treatments, if needed. The goal is to reduce irritation and restore foot function.

Understanding why plantar fasciitis develops can make it easier to recognize symptoms and seek help before pain becomes persistent. Support and a guided approach to activity can help protect the plantar fascia. If heel pain is causing difficulty in completing daily activities, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact David Reynolds, DPM of First Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Evansville, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Swollen feet are common during pregnancy, especially as the day comes to an end. This swelling, called edema, happens when the body holds more water than usual. Extra fluid can gather in the lower part of the body because gravity pulls it downward. Additionally, a growing womb can place pressure on blood vessels, making it harder for blood and fluid to return from the legs. Feet and ankles may look puffy.

Several pregnancy changes can increase the risk of swollen feet. Standing for long periods of time can encourage fluid to collect around the ankles. Warm weather, body weight and less movement may also contribute. Swelling is often more noticeable late in pregnancy. Although mild swelling can be normal, sudden or severe swelling needs prompt medical attention. Swelling with severe headache, vision changes, or shortness of breath should be evaluated because these symptoms can signal a complication.

You can take simple steps to manage pregnancy-related foot swelling. Avoid standing for long periods of time, and change positions regularly. When resting, elevate your feet when possible. Gentle foot exercises can help circulation. Rotate your feet in circles, then point and flex each foot. Comfortable shoes can reduce pressure. A podiatrist can examine your feet and ankles, review your symptoms, and determine whether another foot condition is contributing. Treatment may include footwear recommendations or activity guidance.

Pregnancy swelling usually improves with rest and after delivery, but persistent discomfort should not be ignored. Keep track of when swelling appears and whether one foot becomes more swollen. A podiatrist can monitor changes and recommend care. If your feet are swollen during pregnancy and are causing difficulty in completing daily activities, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact David Reynolds, DPM of First Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Evansville, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.