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Types of Ankle Sprains

People of all walks of life are prone to getting ankle sprains, despite that many people refer to them as being a sports injury. An ankle sprain happens when the ankle is twisted or rolled beyond its normal range of motion which can happen for various reasons. These can include stepping off of a curb unexpectedly, or clumsily landing after turning or jumping. Ankle sprains fall into two categories, consisting of inversion and eversion sprains. The former is considered to be the most common type of sprain, and happens when the ankle rolls outward while the foot turns inward. An eversion sprain is the opposite, and can damage the inner ligaments. Common symptoms that can accompany both types of sprains can include swelling, bruising, and it can be difficult to walk. If you have endured an ankle sprain, please connect with a podiatrist who can determine which type it is, and offer you correct treatment options.

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 Pennsylvania Foot & Ankle. 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?

  • Pain at the sight of the tear
  • Bruising/Swelling
  • Ankle area is tender to touch
  • In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
  • Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

  • Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
  • Stretching before exercises and sports
  • Knowing your limits

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 one of our offices located in Bensalem, Philadelphia, Northeast Philadelphia, Yardley, PA, and Hamilton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Three Grades of Ankle Sprains

Elderly People May Be Prone to Foot Conditions

Many people are aware of how the feet are affected as the aging process occurs. Research has shown there is a direct connection with foot health and walking. The feet can maintain strength when walking everyday, which may help improve balance and weight bearing. Other benefits can include increased socialization and independence. Some of the common signs that people notice with age consist of hair loss below the knee, age spots, and the number of corns and calluses that may increase. Additionally, a loss of muscle mass may happen because of inactivity, and this could lead to a foot injury. Some of the foot ailments that are common in the elder population can include plantar fasciitis and onychomycosis, which is the medical term for toenail fungus. Ingrown toenails can also fall into this category and these conditions often need medical attention for complete healing. It is beneficial for elderly patients to be under the care of a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment options, in addition to performing regular foot examinations.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Pennsylvania Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

  • Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
  • Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
  • Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
  • Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
  • Shoes that don’t fit properly
  • Pressure sores
  • Loss of circulation in legs & feet
  • Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bensalem, Philadelphia, Northeast Philadelphia, Yardley, PA, and Hamilton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Elderly Foot Care

What to Do With Flip-Flops

The negative foot health effects that wearing flip-flops can have on your feet are plentiful and well documented. For example, many people are familiar with the fact that wearing flip-flops can cause foot pain because the shoe provides next to no support. Since there is virtually no padding or arch support, the flip-flop can be quite damaging to one’s feet. Therefore, one might wonder what they should do with their flip-flops and whether they should be wearing them at all. It is important to note that for some people, wearing flip-flops for very brief periods of time, for example when walking one block to get to the beach, can potentially be fine. Additionally, if one wants to slip on a pair to wear around the house after painting their toenails to avoid smudging the nail polish, this might also be generally harmless. The key is remembering that wearing flip-flops for extended periods of time is what is damaging. Of course, each individual’s feet are different, and when in doubt, it is best to consult a podiatrist. Contact a podiatrist today for more information.

Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Pennsylvania Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops.  Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off; they're perfect for any summer beach goer.  However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.

How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?

  • Ankle problems
  • Hip problems
  • Lower back problems
  • Pain in the balls of the feet
  • Problems with foot arches
  • Changes in the way you walk

Are There Injuries Associated with Flip-Flops?

Yes.  Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops regularly are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections.  Common injuries and ailments include:

  • Sprained ankles
  • Blisters
  • Infections
  • Cuts and Scrapes

I like Wearing Flip-Flops. Are There Safe Alternatives?

When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and that are made of high-quality materials that will support for your feet.  These flip-flops will cost more but will also last longer as a result.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bensalem, Philadelphia, Northeast Philadelphia, Yardley, PA, and Hamilton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Flipping Out About Flip Flops

Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

Effective Stretches That May Help Flat Feet

The pain that can accompany the foot condition known as flat feet may or may not affect specific people. It is described as an arch that is absent in each foot and provides shock absorption to the body. The majority of babies are born with flat feet, and the arch generally develops during the teenage years. Consequently, the arch may not develop in some people, and they can experience discomfort with flat feet as they get older. Performing specific stretches may help to strengthen the entire foot, which may help to diminish the discomfort of having flat feet. These can consist of simple stretches that are called the towel scrunch, stair heel raises, and toe extensions. Many patients enjoy practicing the towel stretch, which is done while sitting on the floor, and wrapping a towel around the feet as the toes are pointed up. Additionally, rolling the foot on a tennis ball can invoke feelings of well-being as the feet relax. If you would like additional information about effective stretches to practice with flat feet, please ask a podiatrist who can provide you with useful information.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Pennsylvania Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

  • Pain around the heel or arch area
  • Trouble standing on the tip toe
  • Swelling around the inside of the ankle
  • Flat look to one or both feet
  • Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bensalem, Philadelphia, Northeast Philadelphia, Yardley, PA, and Hamilton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Flat Feet

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