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September 2024

Tuesday, 10 September 2024 00:00

Ankle Sprains Sustained in Sports

Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries in sports, affecting athletes of all levels. These injuries occur when the ligaments that support the ankle are stretched or torn, usually due to a sudden twist, turn, or impact. Sports that involve quick changes in direction, jumping, or running on uneven surfaces, such as basketball, soccer, and trail running, have a higher incidence of ankle sprains. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot. Immediate treatment typically involves rest, compression, and elevation to reduce swelling and pain. While most ankle sprains heal with proper care, severe cases may require targeted exercises or even surgery to restore full function. Preventing ankle sprains includes performing strengthening exercises, proper warm-up routines, wearing appropriate footwear, and, when necessary, using ankle supports or braces to provide extra stability. If you have sprained your ankle while participating in sports, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Ankle & Foot Surgeons. 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 office located in O'Fallon, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Three Grades of Ankle Sprains
Tuesday, 03 September 2024 00:00

Walking With a Broken Toe

Walking with a broken big toe can be incredibly painful and may hinder your daily activities. Despite the discomfort, many people continue to walk with a broken toe, which can lead to complications like improper healing or worsening the injury. While it is tempting to tough it out, seeking professional medical care is important. A podiatrist can assess the severity of the break, determine whether the bone is aligned, and suggest appropriate treatment. Depending on the injury, this may include buddy taping the toe to an adjacent one, using a splint, or even recommending a specialized shoe to reduce pressure. This may also help to protect the toe and allow proper healing. Ignoring a broken big toe can lead to chronic pain, deformities, or arthritis in the joint. Your podiatrist can provide guidance on when it is safe to resume normal activities to avoid re-injury. If you have a broken big toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Ankle & Foot Surgeons. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

  • Throbbing pain
  • Swelling
  • Bruising on the skin and toenail
  • The inability to move the toe
  • Toe appears crooked or disfigured
  • Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in O'Fallon, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about What to Know About a Broken Toe
Sunday, 01 September 2024 00:00

Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?

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!

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