Items filtered by date: January 2024

An acute ankle sprain refers to a sudden and unexpected injury to the ligaments that support the ankle joint. These ligaments can become stretched or torn when the foot twists or turns beyond its normal range of motion. This injury often results from a misstep, an awkward landing, or a sudden change in direction, such as in sports activities. The causes of an acute ankle sprain are typically linked to excessive or forceful movements that strain the ankle ligaments. Common situations include stumbling on uneven ground, stepping off of a curb, or rolling the ankle during sports activities, such as basketball or soccer. Wearing high heels and poorly fitting footwear can also increase the risk of ankle sprains by destabilizing the ankle. Understanding the definition and causes of an acute ankle sprain is essential for both prevention and timely treatment. If you have sprained your ankle, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose this condition, and offer treatment methods that are right for you.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Jordan Baker, DPM from Best Foot Forward Surgical Podiatry. Our doctor 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 Florence, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Pickleball, a fusion of ping-pong and tennis, has captivated players of all levels, particularly drawing beginners to its dynamic gameplay. Foot and ankle injuries, prevalent among pickleball players, often stem from muscle strains, ligament sprains, and in some cases broken bones. Notably, seniors over 60 years of age, predominantly male, account for nearly 80 percent of these injuries, often due to undetected underlying health conditions. For those who have been less physically active, easing into pickleball activities is a good way to prevent foot and ankle injuries. Also, incorporating a thorough warm-up routine is paramount, particularly for older players. These exercises may include jogging, jumping jacks, arm circles, shoulder rotations, and leg swings. Coordination drills, like the side-to-side shuffle and cross-step drill, help to enhance agility and reduce the likelihood of sudden movements causing harm. Selecting appropriate gear, including the right footwear for the playing surface, is essential. Specialized shoes for indoor and outdoor play also contribute to injury prevention. Additionally, investing in durable shoes and extra socks can help to prevent blisters and foot injuries. If you have sustained a foot or ankle injury as a result of playing pickleball, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

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 Jordan Baker, DPM from Best Foot Forward Surgical Podiatry. Our doctor 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:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

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 Florence, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Bunion surgery, a consideration for those grappling with persistent discomfort and deformity, involves a meticulous assessment of its potential benefits and drawbacks. On the positive side, bunion surgery can provide relief from pain, improve the appearance of the foot, and enhance overall mobility. By correcting the misalignment of the big toe joint, surgery addresses the root cause of the bunion, preventing its progression. Increased joint function and reduced pressure on adjacent toes can contribute to improved overall foot health. However, the decision to undergo bunion surgery comes with its set of considerations. Potential drawbacks include the risks associated with any surgical procedure, such as infection, scarring, or adverse reactions to anesthesia. Postoperative recovery involves a period of limited mobility and potential discomfort. Additionally, the success of bunion surgery depends on various factors, including the severity of the bunion and the patient's commitment to postoperative care. If you have a bunion and are considering surgery, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can help you to make an informed decision.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Jordan Baker, DPM of Best Foot Forward Surgical Podiatry. Our doctor 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:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

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:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

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 Florence, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Running shoes and walking shoes serve distinct purposes, and it is essential to choose the right ones for your activity. Running in walking shoes is discouraged as they lack the flexibility needed for running, and the same applies to fitness walking. These types of walkers often find that running shoes meet their needs better, due to their flexibility, cushioning, and suitability for heel-to-toe motion. Running shoes are available in various styles, offering different levels of cushioning, stability, and heel-to-toe drop to match different running techniques. In contrast, walking shoes have typically focused on comfort rather than performance, potentially leading to leg stiffness. Fitness walkers benefit from lightweight, flexible, and flat shoes that support natural foot movement. If you are trying to consider which type of shoe is best for your needs, consider factors like cushioning, heel height, heel flare, and flexibility. Runners require more cushioning, while walkers need less heel cushioning. Both running and walking shoes should offer flexibility, particularly at the forefoot, for a comfortable experience. If you are having trouble determining which type of shoe is best for the activities you will be doing, it is suggested that you seek professional guidance from a podiatrist.

For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with Jordan Baker, DPM from Best Foot Forward Surgical Podiatry. Our doctor can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.

Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes

There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.

You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.

Differences

Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.

Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.

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

Sever's disease, a common but often misunderstood condition, is not truly a disease, but rather a growth-related heel pain that affects active children and adolescents. This condition, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, occurs when the growth plate at the back of the heel becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress and tension. Children between the ages of 8 and 15 are most susceptible to Sever's disease, as this is typically when their bones are rapidly growing. This growth spurt places extra stress on the heel's growth plate, especially in active children who participate in sports or activities that involve running and jumping. The hallmark symptom of Sever's disease is heel pain, often exacerbated by physical activity. This pain can be particularly bothersome during or after exercise. Understanding Sever's disease is essential for parents and young athletes, as it enables early recognition and appropriate management. If your active child has heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose and treat Sever’s disease.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Jordan Baker, DPM from Best Foot Forward Surgical Podiatry. Our doctor 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 office located in Florence, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.