Items filtered by date: February 2024

Ankle sprains are common injuries that can disrupt daily activities and sports participation. Effective management of ankle sprains involves understanding the severity of the injury and implementing appropriate treatment strategies. Ankle sprains are often classified into three grades, based on the extent of ligament damage. Grade I sprains involve mild stretching or microscopic tears of the ligaments, resulting in minimal swelling and pain. Grade II sprains involve partial tearing of the ligaments, leading to moderate swelling, pain, and instability. Grade III sprains are the most severe, involving complete tearing of the ligaments, significant swelling, and joint instability. Management of ankle sprains typically begins with elevation which may help to reduce any existing swelling. In severe cases, immobilization with a brace or boot may be necessary to facilitate healing. Gradual return to weight-bearing activities and sports should be guided by pain tolerance and functional improvement, aiming to prevent recurrent injuries and promote long-term ankle health. If you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine the grade of the sprain and offer appropriate treatment methods.

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 Florida. 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 North Miami, and Pembroke Pines, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Orthotics are available in various types, each serving distinct purposes to address specific foot conditions. Functional orthotics are designed to control abnormal motion and correct foot biomechanics, providing stability and support. Rigid orthotics offer maximum control and are often used to alleviate pain from conditions like plantar fasciitis or tendonitis. Soft or accommodative orthotics provide cushioning and relieve pressure points, and are ideal for individuals with diabetic foot ulcers or arthritis. Fragile orthotics are delicate inserts tailored for sensitive feet, offering gentle support without causing discomfort. Pied sensible inserts focus on enhancing sensory feedback, aiding in balance and gait improvement. Finally, sport-specific orthotics are engineered to enhance performance and reduce injury risk during athletic activities, catering to the unique biomechanical demands of various sports. If you would like to explore custom-made orthotics for your specific foot issues, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss which type of orthotic would best improve your overall comfort and mobility.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists from Florida. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in North Miami, and Pembroke Pines, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

When selecting running shoes, it is essential to consider several key characteristics to ensure comfort, performance, and injury prevention. First, assess the level of cushioning provided by the shoes, which should offer adequate shock absorption to minimize impact on joints and muscles. Next, consider the level of support and stability the shoes offer, especially if you have specific foot biomechanics or pronation issues. Opt for shoes with a supportive midsole and a secure heel counter to help maintain proper foot alignment. Additionally, pay attention to the shoe's flexibility and responsiveness, as these qualities can enhance agility and energy return during runs. Another important factor is the shoe's breathability, which allows for proper airflow and can help to prevent moisture buildup and blisters. Lastly, ensure a proper fit by trying on shoes in the afternoon when your feet are slightly swollen and leaving a thumb's width of space between your longest toe and the shoe's end. By considering these five characteristics, you can find the ideal pair of running shoes to support your training and performance goals while keeping your feet happy and healthy. If you are seeking additional tips on what to look for in running shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide you with the information you are seeking.

You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Florida. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.

Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe

• Make sure you have a thumb’s width of wiggle room between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
• There should be little to no slipping at the heel
• Don’t assume your size in one shoe brand will be your size in another
• Do not lace up your shoes too tightly
• Walk around in the store with your new shoes before you buy them

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our our offices located in North Miami, and Pembroke Pines, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Complex regional pain syndrome, or CRPS, a perplexing and debilitating condition, manifests as chronic pain, swelling, and changes in skin color and temperature, often affecting the extremities. When CRPS strikes the feet, it introduces a unique set of challenges for individuals grappling with this complex disorder. The condition arises typically after an injury or trauma, triggering an abnormal response in the nervous system. In the feet, CRPS can lead to severe, constant pain, sensitivity to touch, and difficulty bearing weight. The affected foot may change skin texture, temperature, and color, presenting a mosaic of symptoms that defy conventional explanations. Understanding how CRPS impacts the feet is essential for accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plans. If you have foot pain that encompasses the above symptoms, it is strongly suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat CRPS.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Florida. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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