Items filtered by date: October 2024

Broken ankles are common injuries that can involve various fractures of the bones in the ankle joint, primarily the tibia, fibula, and talus. A fracture can occur from a sudden twist, fall, or impact, leading to symptoms such as intense pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. There are several types of ankle fractures, including stable fractures, where the bones remain aligned, and unstable fractures, where the bones shift out of place. Stress fractures can also develop over time due to repetitive impact. Treatment depends on the type and severity of the fracture. Minor fractures may require rest, while more serious fractures often necessitate immobilization with a cast or splint. In some cases, surgery may be needed to realign the bones. If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a thorough evaluation and tailored treatment plan.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our doctors from Advanced Podiatry. 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 offices located in Needham, Norwood, and Hanover, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Sever's disease, or calcaneal apophysitis, is a condition that affects active children, particularly those aged nine to 13 who participate in running or jumping sports. It occurs when the growth plate at the back of the heel becomes inflamed, leading to heel pain during physical activity. This condition is often caused by repetitive stress on the heel, resulting from activities like running, basketball, or gymnastics. Symptoms include tenderness, swelling, and pain that worsens with activity but improves with rest. Treatment often involves custom orthotics or supportive footwear which may be recommended to help alleviate pressure on the heel. Stretching exercises for the calf muscles can also provide relief. If your child is experiencing heel pain or has difficulty participating in sports, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to ensure proper diagnosis and an effective treatment plan.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our doctors from Advanced Podiatry. Our doctors can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Needham, Norwood, and Hanover, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

Although ankle injuries are common, distinguishing between a sprain and a fracture can be challenging. An ankle sprain occurs when ligaments are stretched or torn, typically due to twisting or rolling the ankle. Symptoms include swelling, bruising, and pain, particularly when bearing weight. In contrast, an ankle fracture involves a break in the bone and often causes severe pain, swelling, and an inability to move the ankle. For sprains, mild pain relievers and gentle stretching may aid recovery. Fractures, however, often require more intensive treatment, such as immobilization in a cast or even surgery, depending on the severity. If you are unsure whether you have a sprain or a fracture, or if pain persists, it is important to consult a podiatrist. This type of doctor can provide an accurate diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan to ensure a proper recovery and prevent future injuries.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our doctors from Advanced Podiatry. 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 Needham, Norwood, and Hanover, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A foot stress fracture occurs due to repetitive stress or overuse, often from activities like running or jumping. This type of fracture develops when the foot’s bones are subjected to excessive force, leading to tiny cracks that gradually worsen. Common symptoms include localized pain that intensifies with activity, swelling, and tenderness at the site of the fracture. The affected area might also become bruised or stiff. Diagnosing a foot stress fracture involves a thorough physical examination and imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans which can reveal the extent of the injury and rule out other conditions. If you have endured a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist  who can accurately diagnose and treat foot stress fractures.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our doctors from Advanced Podiatry. 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 Needham, Norwood, and Hanover, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Golf, while often seen as a low-impact sport, can still lead to various foot and ankle injuries due to repetitive motions and uneven terrain. Common injuries include ankle sprains, which occur from missteps on uneven ground, and plantar fasciitis, resulting from the constant walking and pressure on the feet. Stress fractures can develop in the metatarsal bones due to repetitive impact, especially in golfers who walk the course frequently. Tendonitis, particularly Achilles tendonitis, can arise from overuse or wearing poor footwear, leading to inflammation and pain. Golfers may also experience issues like neuromas, where nerve tissue between the toes becomes irritated, causing pain or numbness. To prevent these injuries, proper footwear with arch support should be worn. If you experience foot pain from playing golf, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide a diagnosis and treatment, ensuring a swift recovery and return to the course.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our doctors of Advanced Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Needham, Norwood, and Hanover, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.