Items filtered by date: August 2024

Ankle pain can stem from various issues affecting the complex structure of the ankle, which includes bones, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. The ankle joint comprises the tibia and fibula bones of the lower leg, which connect to the talus bone in the foot. Ligaments stabilize the joint, while tendons enable movement. Common causes of ankle pain can include sprains, arthritis, and fractures. Sprains occur when ligaments are stretched or torn, often due to twisting injuries. Strains involve overstretching or tearing of tendons or muscles. Arthritis can lead to inflammation and stiffness, while fractures result from trauma or severe impact. To alleviate ankle pain, consider resting the ankle to reduce swelling and discomfort. Mild pain relievers like ibuprofen may also help to provide temporary relief. For persistent or severe pain, it is suggested you contact a podiatrist for professional medical advice, as more advanced treatments may be necessary to address the underlying issue and restore function.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, 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.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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.

Children are typically born with flat feet, a natural condition due to undeveloped arches and soft, flexible bones. As they grow, their arches gradually form, usually becoming noticeable around age two or three. During the early years, it is best for children to walk barefoot as much as possible, allowing their feet to develop strength and proper alignment. When they begin walking outdoors, they need shoes that provide protection without restricting natural foot movement. Look for shoes with a flexible sole, breathable material, and a wide toe box to accommodate growing feet. Shoes should also have a snug fit at the heel to prevent slipping but not be too tight to cause discomfort. Regularly checking for proper fit is important, as children’s feet grow rapidly. When it comes time to select shoes for your child, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for further help and to have your child’s feet assessed for any other footwear needs for healthy foot development.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Jordan Baker, DPM of Best Foot Forward Surgical Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs when the posterior tibial nerve is compressed within the tarsal tunnel, leading to a range of symptoms. Individuals with this condition often experience pain, tingling, or numbness in the foot or ankle, particularly along the inner side. Symptoms may worsen with prolonged standing or walking. Diagnosing tarsal tunnel syndrome involves a thorough physical examination, where a podiatrist may assess nerve function and look for signs of compression. Diagnostic tests such as nerve conduction studies or an MRI scan may be used to confirm the diagnosis. Conservative treatments such as rest and anti-inflammatory medications may offer relief. Wearing supportive footwear and using orthotics may help to alleviate pressure on the nerve. If you have pain in the inside of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat tarsal tunnel syndrome.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Jordan Baker, DPM of Best Foot Forward Surgical Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

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.

There are several types of foot and ankle injuries that can occur when playing sports. The most common sports injury is an ankle sprain. It is important for ankle sprains to be diagnosed and treated professionally, as an improperly healed ankle can lead to additional sprains, chronic ankle instability, and arthritis. Another type of injury athletes face involves the Achilles tendon, which can become inflamed, injured, torn, or even ruptured from repetitive activity or trauma. An inflammation of the plantar fascia that runs along the sole of the foot is termed plantar fasciitis. It can be caused by overuse, wearing shoes that are worn out, or footwear that is not appropriate for a particular sport or activity. Running and court sports can lead to a compression of the nerve between the third and fourth toes, resulting in a condition known as Morton’s neuroma. This causes the tissue surrounding the nerve to thicken, and if left untreated may result in nerve damage. If you have suffered a foot, toe, or ankle injury while playing sports, it’s suggested that you contact a podiatrist.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Jordan Baker, DPM of Best Foot Forward Surgical Podiatry. Our doctor 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 office located in Florence, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.