Items filtered by date: October 2024

Ankle fractures can vary based on the location and severity of the injury. Common types of broken ankles include lateral malleolus fractures, which affect the fibula on the outer side of the ankle, and medial malleolus fractures, affecting the tibia on the inner side. Some patients may experience both, leading to bimalleolar fractures. Trimalleolar fractures involve three areas, which are the lateral, medial, and posterior malleoli. Pilon fractures, also known as plafond fractures, occur at the lower part of the tibia. Ankle fractures usually result from a high-energy impact, such as falls or car accidents, and often involve damage to both the bone and surrounding joint surfaces. Maisonneuve fractures involve both an ankle sprain and a break higher up the fibula. A podiatrist can assess the type of fracture through imaging tests and provide treatment options, which may include immobilization or surgery. If you believe you have broken your ankle, it is suggested that you make an emergency appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and diagnosis.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Evan Young, DPM from Trinity Foot & Ankle . Our doctor 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 office located in Trinity, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Big toe pain can result from biomechanical problems or arthritis in the metatarsophalangeal, or MTP joint, where the base of the toe meets the foot. Biomechanical issues arise when there is an imbalance in the way the bones, tendons, and muscles function together, causing pressure to shift to the front of the foot. This action can lead to bunions, where the big toe pushes against the second toe, and turf toe, caused by overextending the toe during high-impact activities. Arthritis-related pain is the result of joint inflammation from gout, osteoarthritis, or rheumatoid arthritis. Symptoms often include swelling, stiffness, and difficulty walking. A podiatrist can help by diagnosing the underlying cause of the big toe pain. Treatments like custom orthotics, specific exercises, or in some cases, surgery may be suggested. If you are experiencing pain in the big toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Evan Young, DPM of Trinity Foot & Ankle . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Trinity, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Morton's neuroma is a painful condition affecting the ball of the foot, typically between the third and fourth toes. It occurs when the tissue surrounding a nerve becomes thickened, often due to repetitive pressure or irritation. Common symptoms include sharp, burning pain in the affected area, tingling, or numbness that may radiate to the toes. Several risk factors contribute to the development of Morton's neuroma, including wearing tight or high-heeled shoes, engaging in high-impact activities, and having foot deformities like flat feet or bunions. Diagnosis usually involves a physical examination where a podiatrist assesses the foot's structure and evaluates symptoms. In some cases, imaging tests such as ultrasounds or MRI scans may be used to confirm the diagnosis. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Evan Young, DPM of Trinity Foot & Ankle . Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

Shoe orthotics are custom insoles designed to support and align the feet, improving overall comfort and function. There are several signs that may indicate the need for orthotics. Persistent foot pain, especially after physical activities, can signal an underlying issue. If you experience discomfort in your heels, arches, or toes, it may be time to consider orthotics. Additionally, frequently feeling fatigued or noticing changes in your walking pattern, such as limping or uneven wear on your shoes, can be indicators. People with certain conditions, like flat feet or plantar fasciitis, often benefit from orthotic support. If you have chronic foot pain or minor discomfort, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if custom orthotics are right for you.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Evan Young, DPM from Trinity Foot & Ankle . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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

Cracked heels, or heel fissures, occur when the skin on the heels becomes dry and thickened, leading to painful splits or cracks that can sometimes become infected. This condition often arises from a combination of factors, such as prolonged standing, wearing open-back shoes, and exposure to harsh weather conditions. Symptoms include visible cracks in the heel skin, which can become painful, especially when walking. The affected area may also appear dry, rough, sometimes inflamed, and ensuring proper foot hygiene can prevent infection. For persistent or severe cases of heel fissures, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a comprehensive evaluation and treatment plan.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Evan Young, DPM from Trinity Foot & Ankle . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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