Custom orthotics can be used to relieve foot pain and discomfort. They're also used to treat various foot conditions and deformities. Flat feet, bunions, and Morton's neuroma are just a few of the foot conditions that have been known to benefit from the use of orthotics.
Ankle instability often develops after repeated ankle sprains weaken the supporting ligaments that holds the joint together. When these ligaments stretch or tear, the joint can lose control and become less stable during movement. As a result, the ankle may feel unsteady or give way, especially on uneven ground or with quick turns. Damage to small nerve sensors can also affect balance, as they help the brain sense position. When they do not work well, the risk of missteps increases. Other causes include poor alignment and muscles that are not strong enough to support the ankle. A podiatrist can examine the ankle, assess stability, and order imaging to identify damage. Treatment options include bracing, custom-made orthotics, and guided exercises to improve strength and control. If you frequently have the feeling of an ankle giving way, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Complete Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC. our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.
Causes
The most common causes of ankle pain include:
Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
Ankle sprains
Broken ankles
Achilles tendonitis
Achilles tendon rupture
Stress fractures
Bursitis
Tarsal tunnel syndrome
Plantar fasciitis
Symptoms
Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.
Diagnosis
Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bellefontaine, OHand Springfield, OH. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Regaining strength after spraining an ankle is essential for stability and prevention of repeat injuries. A sprain stretches or tears ligaments, the strong bands that hold the joint together, leading to weakness and poor control of movement. Early recovery focuses on improving range of motion, meaning how well the ankle can move in different directions. As healing progresses, strengthening exercises target the muscles and tendons that support the joint. This helps the ankle handle weight and movement again. Balance training is also important, as it improves coordination and reduces the risk of chronic sprains. A podiatrist can guide this process by evaluating joint function, recommending supportive bracing, and prescribing custom orthotics to improve alignment and reduce strain. They may also design a structured rehabilitation plan to rebuild strength safely and effectively. If you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.
Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Complete Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC. 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 Bellefontaine, OHand Springfield, OH. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Falls, a common concern for older adults, can lead to serious injuries like broken bones, long-term pain, or reduced independence. Many factors increase the risk of falling. Aging may affect vision, hearing, and reflexes, making it harder to react quickly. Muscle loss can weaken the legs and reduce stability while walking. Balance and gait problems, which describe how smoothly and safely a person moves, may also contribute to a fall. Some health conditions that affect nerves, blood flow, or heart function can cause dizziness or unsteadiness. A sudden drop in blood pressure when standing may lead to lightheadedness and subsequent falls. Foot pain, deformities, or wearing poorly fitted or backless shoes can further affect balance. A podiatrist can assess foot structure, walking patterns, and sensation, and may recommend supportive footwear, custom inserts, or treatments to improve stability and mobility. If you are at risk of falling, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.
Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Complete Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC. our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.
Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.
How to Prevent Falls
Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:
Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
Utilizing a walker or cane
Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness
Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Bellefontaine, OHand Springfield, OH. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Turf toe is an injury at the base of the big toe joint that happens when the toe bends too far upward. Common among football players, dancers, and other athletes, turf toe often occurs during running, jumping, or quick direction changes. These actions can strain or tear the ligaments and soft tissue surrounding the joint. Common symptoms include pain, swelling, and bruising. Stiffness and trouble pushing off while walking are other signs. A podiatrist can examine the joint and order X-rays or other imaging tests to help determine the severity of the sprain. Treatment includes taping, bracing and wearing stiff-soled shoes. In some cases, a walking boot may be prescribed to protect the toe while it heals. Gentle exercises can also aid in healing and improve strength. These include toe curls, towel scrunches, and marble pick-ups to help restore movement and support. If you have symptoms of turf toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.
Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
Trauma
Sports injury
Wearing shoes that are too tight
Arthritis
Gout
Corns and calluses
Hammertoe
Bunions
Blisters
Ingrown toenails
Sprains
Fractures (broken bones)
Dislocations
When to See a Podiatrist
Severe pain
Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
Signs of infection
Continued swelling
Pain that prevents walking
Diagnosis
In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.
If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Bellefontaine, OHand Springfield, OH. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.