Items filtered by date: December 2024

An ankle sprain happens when the ligaments supporting the ankle stretch or tear, often from a sudden twist or misstep. While painful, proper recovery ensures you regain strength and stability. The key to healing is balancing rest with gentle movement. Start with rest, compression, and elevation to reduce swelling and pain. As swelling subsides, begin light exercises such as ankle circles or toe flexing to maintain mobility and prevent stiffness. Avoid rushing back to high-impact activities. Gradually rebuild strength with resistance exercises and balance training to avoid re-injury. Wearing a supportive brace may help during this phase. Every sprain is unique and untreated or improperly healed injuries can lead to chronic instability. If you suspect you have an ankle sprain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and care.

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 Suncoast Podiatry Associates. 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 office located in Ocala, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Tuesday, 24 December 2024 00:00

Causes of Toenail Loss

Toenail loss can occur for various reasons, often causing discomfort and exposing the nail bed to potential infection. A common cause of toenail loss is trauma, which includes stubbing your toe, dropping something heavy on your foot, or wearing tight shoes. Fungal infections can cause toenails to become thick, discolored, and brittle, eventually leading to detachment. Psoriasis, a condition that affects the skin and nails, can weaken the connection between the toenail and its bed, causing it to loosen or fall off. In some cases, a bony growth under the nail can create pressure that forces the nail to detach. A podiatrist can diagnose the underlying issue of toenail loss, provide treatment to protect the exposed nail bed, and offer ways to promote healthy regrowth. If your toenail has fallen off, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Suncoast Podiatry Associates. Our doctors 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 Ocala, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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Tuesday, 17 December 2024 00:00

The Truth About Bunions

Bunions are bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe causing it to lean toward the other toes. They often look unsightly and can be painful, especially when wearing tight or narrow shoes. Bunions develop over time due to factors like genetics, foot structure, arthritis, or wearing ill-fitting footwear. While some people experience no pain, others may suffer from redness, swelling, and discomfort, particularly after prolonged walking or standing. Bunions are more common in women, likely due to shoe choices, and in those with a family history of the condition. Unfortunately, bunions do not go away on their own. They may worsen without intervention. Treatment includes wearing wider shoes, using orthotics, or padding the bunion to reduce friction. For severe cases, surgery may be necessary. If you have a painful bunion, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can assess your bunions and recommend the best treatment plan.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Suncoast Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

  • Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
  • Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
  • Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
  • Orthotics or foot inserts
  • Surgery

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

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Tuesday, 10 December 2024 00:00

Understanding Athlete's Foot

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that typically affects the skin between the toes but can spread to other areas of the body. There are different types of athlete’s foot infections, including interdigital, meaning between the toes, moccasin, which affects the soles and sides of the feet, or vesicular, which is characterized by fluid-filled blisters. Common symptoms include itching, burning, redness, cracked skin, and peeling. The main cause of athlete’s foot is exposure to the fungus tinea pedis, often found in warm, damp environments like locker rooms, public showers, or wet socks and shoes. Poor foot hygiene and weakened immune systems can increase the risk. Treatment typically includes antifungal creams, powders, or oral medications. In some cases, if the infection is severe or persistent, a podiatrist may recommend a more tailored treatment plan. A podiatrist can also help with prevention strategies to reduce the risk of recurrence. If you are struggling with athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for relief and expert care.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists from Suncoast Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

  • Thoroughly washing and drying feet
  • Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
  • Using shower shoes in public showers
  • Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
  • Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

  • Redness
  • Burning
  • Itching
  • Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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

 

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Wednesday, 04 December 2024 00:00

We Can Treat Your Foot or Ankle Pain

Foot or ankle pain can negatively affect your day-to-day life and can occur due to several different conditions. Pain can also be an indicator of a more serious underlying condition, which is why you should seek professional help as soon as you notice any abnormalities in your feet.

Tuesday, 03 December 2024 00:00

CRPS and Foot Pain

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, or CRPS, is a chronic pain condition that can severely impact the feet, causing intense discomfort, swelling, and skin changes. CRPS often develops after an injury, surgery, or trauma, even if minor, when the nervous system overreacts, leading to persistent pain far beyond the original injury site. In the feet, CRPS may cause burning pain, heightened sensitivity to touch, temperature fluctuations, and skin color changes. The affected foot can become swollen and stiff, making movement difficult and sometimes causing muscle weakness. CRPS is most common in adults, but anyone with an injury may be at risk. Early diagnosis is important to manage symptoms effectively, often involving medications, targeted exercises, and nerve treatments. If you suffer from CRPS, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help improve function and prevent the condition from worsening.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Suncoast Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

  • Freiberg’s disease
  • Kohler’s disease
  • Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

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

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