Tuesday, 22 October 2024 00:00

Ankle sprains are common injuries that occur when the ligaments supporting the ankle stretch or tear. One of the most prevalent types is the inversion sprain, which happens when the foot rolls inward, often leading to damage on the outer side of the ankle. Medial ankle sprains, though less common, occur when the foot rolls outward, affecting the ligaments on the inner side. High ankle sprains involve injury to the ligaments connecting the tibia and fibula, usually resulting from a twisting injury. Ankle sprains are typically classified into three grades. Grade one involves mild stretching, grade two indicates partial tearing, and grade three signifies a complete tear of the ligament. If you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you promptly contact a podiatrist who can identify which kind of sprain it is, and offer appropriate treatment solutions. 

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 Fusion Foot and 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 our offices located in Fort Worth and Arlington, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Three Grades of Ankle Sprains
Tuesday, 15 October 2024 00:00

An Achilles tendon tear is a painful injury that can significantly affect mobility. Common causes include sudden increases in physical activity, sports involving jumping or sprinting, and underlying conditions like tendonitis or previous injuries. Symptoms include sudden sharp pain in the back of the heel, swelling, and difficulty walking or pushing off the foot. To diagnose an Achilles tendon tear, podiatrists may perform the Thompson's test, which calls for squeezing the calf muscle and observing foot movement. Additional assessments include plantar flexion tests, where the patient attempts to point their toes, and visual inspection for swelling or bruising. Weight-bearing tests can help determine the level of functional impairment. If you think you have sustained an Achilles tendon injury, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Fusion Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

  • Inflammation
  • Dull to severe pain
  • Increased blood flow to the tendon
  • Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

  • Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
  • Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

  • Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
  • Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Worth and Arlington, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about The Causes, Types, and Treatments of Achilles Tendon Injuries
Tuesday, 08 October 2024 00:00

Determining whether your foot is broken involves assessing several key symptoms. Pain is often the most immediate sign. A broken foot typically causes sharp, intense pain that worsens with movement. To gauge the severity, compare the injured foot to the uninjured one. Look for any visible deformities or misalignments, such as an unusual angle or protruding bone. Swelling is another common indicator, as a broken foot usually swells significantly around the injury site, sometimes accompanied by bruising. If you experience severe pain, noticeable changes in foot shape, or significant swelling, it is important to seek medical attention from a podiatrist, who can perform an X-ray or other imaging tests that can confirm a fracture and determine the appropriate treatment for recovery. If you have broken your foot, it is suggested that you confer with this type of doctor who can treat this condition.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Fusion Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

  • Bruising
  • Pain
  • Redness
  • Swelling
  • Blue in color
  • Numbness
  • Cold
  • Misshapen
  • Cuts
  • Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Worth and Arlington, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment for a Broken Foot
Wednesday, 02 October 2024 00:00

Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.

Connect With Us