Distinguishing between a sprained and a broken ankle is important for appropriate treatment. A sprain involves the stretching or tearing of ligaments around the ankle joint, usually caused by an abrupt twist or turn. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving the ankle, but the joint typically remains intact. Treatment often involves rest and elevation along with over-the-counter pain relief. In contrast, a broken ankle, or an ankle fracture, involves a crack or break in one or more of the bones in the ankle. Symptoms are similar to a sprain but often more severe, with intense pain, significant swelling, bruising, and deformity or inability to bear weight. X-rays are necessary to confirm a fracture. Treatment may involve immobilization with a cast or splint, and in some cases, surgery. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested you contact a podiatrist for an evaluation to ensure proper healing and recovery.

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 Podiatry Care Specialists. 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 West Chester, and Broomall, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cracked heels can be more than a cosmetic concern, they may signal underlying nutritional deficiencies. Vitamins play a vital role in maintaining healthy skin and preventing such issues. Vitamin A, essential for skin repair and cell turnover, helps prevent dryness and cracking. A vitamin deficiency can lead to rough, flaky skin on the feet. Vitamin E is known for its antioxidant properties and its ability to promote skin healing and hydration, so low levels can impair the skin's ability to recover from damage. Vitamin C is vital for collagen production, which supports skin elasticity and strength. Insufficient Vitamin C can result in weakened skin prone to cracks and splits. Ensuring a balanced diet rich in these vitamins can help maintain healthy, smooth heels and prevent cracks. Cracked heels can be unsightly, and sometimes painful if fissures develop. If you have troublesome cracked heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for treatment suggestions.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Podiatry Care Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in West Chester, and Broomall, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot stress fractures are tiny cracks in the bones that develop over time, often due to repetitive force or overuse, and are common to runners and other athletes. One of the main symptoms of a foot stress fracture is tenderness, where the injured bone feels painful to touch. Known as pinpoint pain, this can be accompanied by deep, dull pain that seems to originate from within the foot or toes. You may also experience weakness in the affected area, leading to reduced performance in daily activities. Intermittent pain is typical, intensifying during weight-bearing activities, like walking or running, and diminishing with rest. Swelling is another sign of stress fractures, usually visible on the top portion of the foot due to injury to a metatarsal bone. Changes in biomechanics, such as altered walking or running patterns to avoid pressure on the painful area, may also occur. Sharp, localized pain might be felt when putting weight on the foot, particularly in more severe injuries, and bruising may be present, causing reddish, bluish, or purplish discoloration. A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating foot stress fractures, which can be difficult to detect through an X-ray alone. Digital imaging tests, such as an MRI scan may be required. If you believe you may have a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Podiatry Care Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                  
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in West Chester, and Broomall, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Achilles tendon injuries are a frequent concern, particularly among runners, with Achilles tendonitis accounting for about 10 percent of running injuries. This condition involves inflammation of the tendon at the back of the ankle that connects the calf muscles to the ankle. Symptoms of Achilles tendonitis can include pain in the heel and along the tendon when walking or running. It also may become tender to touch. In severe cases, a foot brace may be required. Exercises, such as slowly lowering yourself onto the injured foot from the edge of a step, are particularly effective. Despite its vulnerability, the Achilles tendon is the strongest in the body and, with appropriate care, can remain healthy. Recognizing early stiffness and taking preventive measures can also prevent the condition from becoming more serious. If you have injured your Achilles tendon, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Podiatry Care Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in West Chester, and Broomall, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.