Blog

How to Recover From an Ankle Sprain

Tuesday, 29 June 2021

Ankle sprains occur when one or more ligaments in the ankle are overstretched or torn. This can cause pain, discomfort, and even difficulty walking. If you have sprained your ankle there are some things that you can do to help speed up your recovery. P.R.I.C.E. is an acronym that stands for protect, rest, ice, compress, and elevate. These are all the things that you should do as soon as you’ve sprained your ankle. Protect your ankle by sitting or lying down to take pressure off of it. Rest your foot by limiting walking and other activities that put stress on your ankle. Apply ice to reduce inflammation. Compress the ankle with an elastic bandage and elevate it to decrease swelling. After following the P.R.I.C.E. steps it is strongly suggested that you see a podiatrist for treatment to ensure proper healing. It is also important to take any medication that is prescribed to you to alleviate symptoms, as well as to gently exercise your ankle to speed up recovery time and prevent reinjury.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Dawn Miles, DPM from Florida. 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?

Mild to moderate bruising
Limited mobility
Swelling
Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
Stretching before exercises and sports
Knowing your limits

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 one of our offices located in Palatka and Saint Augustine, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

How Flip Flops Hurt the Feet

Tuesday, 22 June 2021

As summer is in full swing, many of us pull out a pair of flip flops. However, flip flops were not made for everyday use, and they can cause many problems. To start, flip flops do not provide enough support for the feet, and wearing them over a prolonged period of time can lead to the arch ligaments straining. This lack of support can cause the feet and toes to work harder and eventually lead to hammertoes, and the ankle can roll over on its side and lead to an ankle sprain. When wearing flip flops, make sure to choose a pair with a supportive lightweight sole and a cradle around the heel to reduce the chance of an ankle sprain. If you have questions or concerns about wearing your flip flops, consult with a podiatrist.

Flip-flops can cause a lot of problems for your feet. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dawn Miles, DPM from Florida. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

Flip-flops have managed to become a summer essential for a lot of people. While the shoes may be stylish and easy to slip on and off, they can be dangerous to those who wear them too often. These shoes might protect you from fungal infections such as athlete’s foot, but they can also give you foot pain and sprained ankles if you trip while wearing them.

When Are They Okay to Wear?

Flip-flops should only be worn for very short periods of time. They can help protect your feet in places that are crawling with fungi, such as gym locker rooms. Athlete’s foot and plantar warts are two common fungi that flip-flops may help protect your feet against.

Why Are They Bad for My Feet?

These shoes do not offer any arch support, so they are not ideal for everyday use. They also do not provide shock absorption or heel cushioning which can be problematic for your feet. Additionally, you may suffer from glass cuts, puncture wounds, and stubbed toes since they offer little protection for your feet.

More Reasons Why They Are Bad for Your Feet

They Slow You Down
May Cause Blisters and Calluses
Expose Your Feet to Bacteria

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Palatka and Saint Augustine, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Wearing Specific Shoes May Cause an Achilles Tendon Injury

Tuesday, 15 June 2021

The largest tendon in the body, known as the Achilles tendon, is located in the calf, and it connects the heel to the calf muscles. There are several ways to incur an Achilles tendon injury, including adjusting the exercise intensity level, changes in footwear, or if the calf muscles are weak. Additionally, an abnormal foot structure consisting of pronation or unstable ankles may lead to developing an Achilles tendon injury. Women who frequently wear high heels may experience a shortened Achilles tendon, and this may contribute to developing this type of injury. Mild relief may be found when the affected foot is elevated, and custom made insoles are worn for necessary support. If you have suffered an Achilles tendon injury, it is strongly suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can determine what the best course of treatment is for you.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dawn Miles, DPM of Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

Inflammation
Dull to severe pain
Increased blood flow to the tendon
Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

Gout Pain Can Be Managed

Sunday, 13 June 2021

Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.

How to Reduce Pain and Spot Warning Signs of Arthritis in Your Feet

Tuesday, 08 June 2021

Arthritis is a degenerative condition that causes pain and inflammation in the joints which can worsen over time. Osteoarthritis is a result of damage to cartilage which leads to bone on bone grinding, whereas rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic condition where the immune system malfunctions and attacks healthy joint tissue. To try and help alleviate the symptoms of arthritis, eat a healthy diet rich in antioxidants which can help reduce inflammation and keep your weight down (which can help avoid putting additional pressure on joints). Low-impact exercise can help to not only maintain a healthy weight, but also keeps joints flexible and strengthens the muscles that support them. Alternate between cold treatments (i.e., applying ice) to reduce joint swelling, and hot treatments (i.e., leisurely warm showers, moist heating pads) to ease stiffness in joints. Acupuncture, meditation, massage, and relaxation techniques may also help you deal with pain more easily. Don’t ignore possible signs of arthritis in your feet including hammertoes, stiffness, pain, or a callus on the inside of the big toe, swollen toes, heel pain, and shoes that suddenly become uncomfortable. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a full examination and evaluation

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dawn Miles, DPM from Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain. The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it. Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

Swelling
Pain
Stiffness
Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
Age – Risk increases with age
Gender –Most types are more common in women
Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

Blog

Blog Archives