There are ligaments that connect the bones of the feet to the ankle. If an injury occurs and tears or stretches one or more of these ligaments, it may result in an ankle sprain. It typically happens if the ankle is twisted or rolled in an abnormal manner, and the ligaments are pushed past their normal range of motion. Some of the symptoms that are typically associated with a sprained ankle can consist of extreme swelling, severe pain and discomfort, and it is generally difficult to walk. Additionally, the ankle may appear to be bruised, and it may become stiff. A proper diagnosis will often involve having an X-ray taken, which is necessary to rule out a broken ankle. Mild relief can be found when the affected ankle is elevated, and an elastic bandage is wrapped around the ankle which may be helpful in providing support. If you have fallen and twisted your ankle, please speak to a podiatrist who can guide you toward beginning the correct treatment.
Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Frank Stoddard, DPM from Massillon Foot & Ankle Clinic. 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?
Preventing a Sprain
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 Massillon, OH. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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A common type of fungal infection is known as athlete’s foot. This contagious fungus lives and thrives in warm and moist environments, consisting of public pools, shower room floors, and surrounding areas. Research has indicated that there are three specific types of athlete’s foot. If the skin between the fourth and fifth toes becomes red, peels, and gradually cracks, it is referred to as a toe web infection. If the skin on the bottom of the foot itches and becomes thick, it may be indicative a moccasin type infection. If you notice blisters under the skin, you may have a vesicular type infection. Mild cases of athlete’s foot may be treated using an antifungal spray. For more severe cases, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can prescribe more aggressive forms of treatment.
Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Frank Stoddard, DPM from Massillon Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story
Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.
Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Massillon, OH. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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Elderly people may experience a certain amount of instability, which may lead to falling. This unnatural movement has the potential of causing serious health ailments. Many patients who have fallen have developed a fear of falling, and this may prevent them from being as active as they once were. This may possibly cause the body to lose strength and flexibility. There are methods that can be implemented which may help to reduce the risk of falling. These can consist of increasing the lighting in the household, installing grab bars in the toilet and shower areas, and removing any existing loose carpeting. Research has indicated it may be beneficial to have a routine physical examination, and this may be helpful in determining the effectiveness of current medications. If you would like additional information about how falling can affect the feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.
Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Frank Stoddard, DPM from Massillon Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.
Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.
How to Prevent Falls
Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:
Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Massillon, OH. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!
Research has indicated that if you have poor circulation in your feet, it may be indicative of other medical conditions. These may include diabetes, heart conditions, and obesity. It is defined as restricted blood flow to the lower extremities, and there are often noticeable symptoms that are associated with this condition. These can consist of numbness, tingling, and muscle cramps, in addition to pain and discomfort. Nerve damage can possibly be caused by poor circulation, in addition to varicose veins and blood clots. Patients may find relief when specific exercises are performed, and compression stockings are worn that are designed for painful, swollen legs. If you feel you have symptoms of this condition, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist to learn about the best treatment options for you.
Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Frank Stoddard, DPM of Massillon Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Poor Circulation in the Feet
Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.
Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.
Causes
Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:
Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.
As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Massillon, OH. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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