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June 2023

Tuesday, 27 June 2023 00:00

How Is a Broken Ankle Diagnosed?

Ankle pain is most commonly caused by a sprained ligament or strained tendon in the complex ankle joint. However, in many cases it actually may be a sign that you have fractured an ankle bone. Signs of a fractured, or broken, ankle can include pain, an inability to bear weight, and swelling. If a bone is protruding from the skin, it is important to get immediate medical attention. To determine if the ankle pain is from a sprain or a fracture, a podiatrist will order an X-ray to be taken. If a bone is simply misaligned, this type of doctor may put it back in place. Anesthesia and pain medication is likely to be administered. In severe cases, surgery may be required, and plates, screws and wires may be used to keep the bones together. The ankle is generally placed in a cast, and recovery may take up to three months, depending on the severity of the fracture. If you believe you have a fractured ankle, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis as quickly as possible. 

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

  • Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
  •  Swelling around the area
  •  Bruising of the area
  • Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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

Read more about Broken Ankle Causes, Differences, Symptoms and Treatments
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Orthotics are medical devices that are worn inside the shoe. People who have foot pain or an abnormal foot structure may benefit from wearing orthotics, which may aid in completing daily activities. Custom-made orthotics may help patients who have diabetes, plantar fasciitis, or arch pain. These are designed and fitted by podiatrists and many benefits can be associated with wearing these types of orthotics. These can include improving the gait, or walking style, maintaining body alignment, and possibly relieving foot pain from arthritis. Wearing orthotics may reduce existing ankle pain, and it may be easier to walk. If you have foot pain for any reason, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can discuss the benefits of wearing custom-made orthotics and determine if this is the right choice for you.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists from Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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

Read more about Ankle Foot Orthotics for Athletes
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Tuesday, 13 June 2023 00:00

Who Is Prone to Getting Ankle Sprains?

Many people who are active find they are prone to getting ankle sprains. These are defined as the ankle turning in or out beyond its normal range of motion, and can happen from suddenly twisting it. There are two types of ankle sprains that are common, which are known as inversion and eversion sprains. Studies have shown the likelihood of incurring an ankle sprain may be greater when it has been sprained before. An ankle that has healed from a sprain may be weaker, which may compromise walking. This may cause more weight to be put on the other ankle, and may become weaker. Performing ankle stretches is beneficial in strengthening the ankles which may help to prevent ankle sprains and regain a normal range of motion once it has healed. If you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can help you with treatment and effective prevention techniques.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Lovely Foot Associates, PC. 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 Johnstown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Tuesday, 06 June 2023 00:00

Various Branches of Podiatry

The field of medicine that is called podiatry treats conditions of the feet, ankles, and lower legs. The feet are considered to be the foundation of the body, and foot pain can wreak havoc on an individual’s quality of life. Foot pain can range from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly to enduring a traumatic or sudden foot injury. There are several branches of podiatry, consisting of sports medicine, forensic podiatry, and onco-podiatry, and qualified students can choose which one is best for them after completing an extensive education. This can begin with earning a bachelor’s degree, followed by pursuing a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) program that will take four years. A surgery residency program begins at this time, which typically takes place in a hospital or clinic setting. Podiatrists can choose to have a private or group practice, work in extended care facilities, or practice in various health departments. If you are interested in pursuing a career as a podiatrist, it is suggested that you speak to this type of doctor who can address any concerns and answer any questions you may have. 

If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact one of our podiatrists from Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.

What Do Podiatrists Do?

On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:

  • Diagnose foot ailments such as ulcers, tumors, fractures, etc.
  • Use innovative methods to treat conditions
  • Use corrective orthotics, casts, and strappings to correct deformities
  • Correct walking patterns and balance
  • Provide individual consultations to patients

It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.

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

 

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Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.

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