An ankle sprain occurs when one or more ligaments in the ankle are stretched or torn, usually as a result of twisting or rolling the foot in an unnatural direction. Symptoms of a sprained ankle include pain, swelling, bruising, tenderness, and a limited ability to place weight on the affected foot. Discoloration and stiffness may also develop. Ankle sprains can happen during sports activities, walking on an uneven surface, or simply from wearing shoes that do not offer proper support. In more severe ankle sprains, tendons, cartilage, or nearby blood vessels may also be affected. A podiatrist can assess the sprain through a physical examination and imaging tests, such as an X-ray or MRI, to rule out fractures and identify the extent of the ligament damage. Depending on the severity, a podiatrist may recommend immobilizing the joint with a brace or boot. In some cases, surgery may be needed to restore joint stability and function. If you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.
Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, 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 are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.
What Are the Symptoms?
Preventing a Sprain
Treatment of a Sprain
In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.
It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.
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.
Wearing the correct shoe size is vital for foot health and overall comfort. Shoes that are too tight or too loose can cause a variety of foot problems. Wearing tight shoes can lead to blisters, calluses, and bunions, while shoes that are too loose can cause instability, leading to sprained ankles or difficulty walking. Inappropriate shoe sizes can also contribute to conditions like hammertoes, corns, or nerve damage. Additionally, wearing ill-fitting shoes can impact posture, leading to back, knee, or hip pain. Children’s feet are especially prone to damage if their shoes do not fit properly as they are still growing. If you have foot pain, possibly from wearing the wrong size shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on how to find your right shoe size.
Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Proper Shoe Fitting
A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:
Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.
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.
Diabetic neuropathy is a complication of diabetes that affects the nerves in the feet and legs, leading to numbness, tingling, burning, or sharp pain. As nerve damage progresses, it can reduce sensation, making it difficult to feel cuts, blisters, or sores. This can lead to infections, ulcers, or deformities like hammertoe, where the toes become bent or misaligned. The primary cause of diabetic neuropathy is high blood sugar levels over time, which can damage both blood vessels and nerves. Poor circulation combined with nerve damage increases the risk of developing foot ulcers and deformities, which may become severe if left untreated. A podiatrist can help manage diabetic neuropathy by providing regular foot exams, treating ulcers, and recommending special footwear or custom orthotics to prevent further damage. They can also assist with managing hammertoe and other foot deformities. If you are dealing with diabetic neuropathy, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.
Neuropathy
Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with one of our podiatrists from Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.
What Is Neuropathy?
Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.
Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:
Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.
Treatment
To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.
Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.
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.
Painful deformities, such as hammertoes, can be treated. Stop living with foot pain, and have beautiful feet again!
A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe due to misalignment of the foot’s bones. This condition causes the tip of the big toe to shift toward the smaller toes, leading to discomfort, swelling, and difficulty walking. When conservative treatments are not effective, bunion surgery may be necessary to relieve pain and correct the deformity. An osteotomy involves cutting and realigning the bone to restore proper positioning. An exostectomy focuses on removing the bony prominence without realigning the joint. An arthrodesis fuses the affected joint to eliminate movement and pain, while a resection arthroplasty removes a portion of the bone to create more space within the joint. Each procedure is chosen based on the severity of the bunion and the patient’s individual needs to improve function and comfort. If you have a bunion that is painful, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if surgery is right for you, and which type you would most benefit from.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:
What Types of Surgery Are There?
The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:
Benefits of Surgery
Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.
Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.
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.
Mechanical foot pain is one of the most common reasons people visit a podiatrist. It happens when the structures in your feet, like bones, muscles, ligaments, or tendons, are strained or overworked. This type of pain often results from too much standing, walking, running, or wearing unsupportive shoes. Flat feet, high arches, and poor foot alignment can also lead to mechanical pain. You might feel aching, soreness, or sharp pain, usually in the heel, arch, or ball of the foot. The good news is that mechanical foot pain often improves with rest, wearing proper footwear, custom orthotics, stretching, and strengthening exercises. If foot pain is making it hard to get through your day, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can diagnose the problem and help you find relief.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
Diagnosis
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
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.
Cycling places repetitive stress on the feet and ankles, leading to various injuries and discomfort. Plantar fasciitis can develop from excessive pressure on the arch, causing heel pain and stiffness. Numbness in the feet may result from nerve compression due to prolonged pressure or improper positioning on the pedals. Metatarsalgia, a condition that causes pain in the ball of the foot, can occur from excessive force on the forefoot during pedaling. Poor shoe fit is a common cause of these issues, as tight or rigid shoes restrict movement and circulation, while loose shoes fail to provide adequate support. Proper footwear, cleat positioning, and adjusting saddle height can help prevent these injuries. Strengthening exercises and stretching can also improve foot stability and reduce strain during cycling. If you have sustained a foot or ankle injury from cycling, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment remedies, and guide you on additional injury prevention tips.
Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with one of our podiatrists from Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Common Injuries
The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:
Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.
Treatment
Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
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.
Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin on your feet, particularly between the toes. It often causes itching, redness, peeling, and sometimes blisters. The condition can be painful and may create a burning or stinging sensation, especially when walking or wearing shoes. The fungus thrives in warm, moist environments, making public showers, locker rooms, and tight shoes common sources of infection. Athlete's foot is highly contagious and can spread through direct contact or by touching contaminated surfaces. It can remain contagious as long as the fungus is present, often lasting several weeks, if untreated. A podiatrist can diagnose athlete's foot through a physical examination and may take a sample of the skin to identify the fungus. Treatment typically involves antifungal creams, sprays, or oral medication. Keeping feet clean, dry, and well-ventilated can help prevent reinfection. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for the right treatment.
Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists from Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.
What Is Athlete’s Foot?
Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.
Prevention
The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:
Symptoms
Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.
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.
Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common fungal infection that affects the toenails, causing discoloration, thickening, and a crumbly texture. The infection occurs when fungi enter the nail through small cracks or injuries, thriving in warm, damp environments such as sweaty shoes or communal showers. Toenail fungus can also develop when the immune system is weakened or when there is an existing medical condition, such as diabetes, that makes the body more susceptible to infections. The most noticeable symptoms include a yellow or white discoloration of the nail, followed by thickening, brittleness, and sometimes an unpleasant odor. In more severe cases, the nail may separate from the nail bed. To diagnose toenail fungus, a podiatrist will typically examine the affected nail and may take a sample for laboratory testing to identify the specific fungus causing the infection. If you have any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can effectively treat toenail fungus, which may include prescribed medication.
For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Toenail Fungus Treatment
Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.
Antifungals & Deterrence
Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.
Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.
Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Johnstown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.
