An ankle sprain is an injury to the ligaments that connect the bones of the leg to the foot. These ligaments are important, as they help keep the ankle bones in position as well as the ankle joint stable. This type of injury generally happens when you accidentally twist or turn your ankle in an awkward way. A podiatrist can diagnose an ankle sprain by performing a thorough physical examination of the affected foot and ankle. This includes touching the skin around the injury to check for areas of tenderness, and moving the foot to check the range of motion Sometimes, imaging scans may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and to rule out other possibilities, such as a broken bone. Examples of imaging scans that a podiatrist may use include X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, or ultrasounds. For more information about ankle sprains, please consult with a podiatrist.
Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Dr. Kevin F. Gallagher from Gallagher Podiatry. 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 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?
Preventing a Sprain
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 one of our offices located in McMurray and Hickory, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Sesamoids are bones that are connected only to tendons or are embedded in muscle. Each of your feet contains two very small sesamoid bones that are roughly the size of a corn kernel. They are found on the underside of the front of the foot, near the big toe. When the tendons around these bones become injured or inflamed, a condition called sesamoiditis develops. Sesamoiditis is common among certain athletes, such as ballet dancers, runners, and baseball players. Symptoms of sesamoiditis include pain under the big toe or under the ball of the foot, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bending and straightening the toe. If you have these symptoms, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Dr. Kevin F. Gallagher of Gallagher Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.
Sesamoiditis
Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.
Causes of Sesamoiditis
Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in McMurray and Hickory, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Women often experience swollen feet and ankles at some point in their pregnancy. It may become evident during the evening hours, or if the outside temperature rises. Swelling can be referred to as edema, and generally starts at approximately twenty-five weeks. It typically occurs as a result of increased blood flow and pressure from the growing baby. Many pregnant women find mild relief when they can frequently elevate their feet during the day, or while engaging in a mild exercise routine. The feet may become larger, and it is beneficial to get a proper foot measurement before purchasing new shoes. If you would like additional information about how pregnancy can affect the feet, please speak with a podiatrist.
Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Dr. Kevin F. Gallagher from Gallagher Podiatry. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?
One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward. This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.
Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages.
How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in McMurray and Hickory, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
There are many people who enjoy walking when the weather is favorable, and are aware that possible injuries may be reduced when proper stretches are performed first. Effective stretches before beginning a walk can consist of marching in place, and gently moving the arms. The calves can become stronger and more flexible while standing on a step, and lowering one heel at a time. Some people find it beneficial to perform leg swings, which can promote balance and flexibility. If you would like additional information about specific foot stretches that can be practiced before and after exercising, please consult with a podiatrist.
Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Dr. Kevin F. Gallagher from Gallagher Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Stretching the Feet
Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.
Great ways to stretch your feet:
Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in McMurray and Hickory, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek the professional help of your podiatrist and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.
An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments that connect two bones together becomes damaged through overstretching or tearing. This can result in pain, swelling, and bruising. One way to treat the pain of a sprained ankle is to follow the PRICE acronym. PRICE stands for protect, rest, ice, compress, and elevate. Protect the injured ankle from further damage by avoiding any additional weight being placed on the ankle. Rest the ankle as often as possible for several days. Ice the ankle by placing an ice pack wrapped in a towel over the injured area. Compress the damaged ankle with bandages to limit movement. Finally, elevate the ankle to prevent fluid buildup and further swelling. While home treatment can help ease your pain, if you believe that you have sprained your ankle it is recommended that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and an effective treatment plan.
Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. Kevin F. Gallagher from Gallagher 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:
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 one of our offices located in McMurray and Hickory, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
