Items filtered by date: August 2023

An ankle sprain can result in persistent pain and swelling despite rest and physical therapy. The location of the pain can indicate different issues. Frontal pain may suggest damage within the ankle joint or at the front of the ankle. Patients with joint surface injuries or front ankle problems typically experience discomfort during walking, running, or jumping activities, with increased pain on stairs or uneven surfaces. Lateral or side ankle pain may arise from synovitis, which is inflammation of the joint lining, due to a recent sprain, tendon tears, dislocation, or hidden fractures. Synovitis causes front ankle pain, worsening with activities like stair climbing and running, accompanied by swelling and reduced joint motion. Peroneal tendon tears usually manifest as delayed lateral ankle pain and swelling, aggravated by physical activity, especially on uneven terrain. Fractures can mimic sprains but require different treatments. Treatment for ankle sprains may include immobilization, medication, or surgery. If you have sprained your ankle, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and an individualized treatment plan.  

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from DeCaro Total Foot Care Center. Our doctors 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:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

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 our office located in West Hatfield, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Much of the body's weight is supported by the metatarsals, the long bones of the foot. When these bones become inflamed or irritated, it results in a condition known as metatarsalgia, or more commonly, pain in the ball of the foot. This causes varying degrees of discomfort that can disrupt daily activities. Metatarsalgia is often seen in active individuals, as a result of overuse and high-impact activities like running and jumping. Constrictive footwear and high heels that create pressure around the metatarsals can also contribute to ball of foot pain. Being overweight increases the risk of developing metatarsalgia. Symptoms include pain between the toes and the arch, which can intensify during movement and ease when resting. Numbness around the toes, especially the big toe and second toe, is common. Stretching and strengthening foot muscles, as well as the Achilles tendon, are essential for recovery from metatarsalgia. Proper footwear with arch support can aid in cushioning the foot's arch and providing relief. Surgical options might be considered if other pain management remedies prove inadequate. If you are experiencing pain in the ball of the foot on a continual basis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a full examination and discussion of treatment options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from DeCaro Total Foot Care Center. 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 office located in West Hatfield, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The Achilles tendon, located at the back of the ankle, plays a crucial role in walking, running, and jumping. To keep this vital tendon flexible and healthy, incorporating regular stretches into your routine is essential. One effective stretch is the calf stretch, which is done by standing while facing a wall, stepping one foot back, and leaning forward. The back leg remains straight with the heel on the ground. Another beneficial stretch is the seated calf stretch. This is accomplished by sitting with the legs extended, looping a towel around the ball of your foot, and gently pulling your toes towards you. Additionally, the downward dog yoga pose is fantastic for stretching the Achilles tendon. Remember to perform these stretches gradually and hold for approximately 20 to 30 seconds to enhance flexibility in addition to reducing the risk of developing an Achilles tendon injury. If you would like to learn more about stretches for the Achilles tendon, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for additional conversation.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of DeCaro Total Foot Care Center. Our doctors 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

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

An ankle sprain occurs in a child when the ligaments surrounding the ankle joint get stretched or torn, often due to a fall with the foot twisted onto its outer edge. When the fibula is affected, it may lead to a minor ankle fracture, which can be a break in the growth plate or a chip from the tip of the fibula. The symptoms of a minor ankle injury include difficulty walking, mild to severe pain, reduced ankle movement, swelling, bruising, and tenderness around the affected areas. Treatment for minor ankle injuries involves rest, compression, and elevation, and ankle braces or crutches may be used for support during the healing process. Pain management can be achieved with over-the-counter pain medications. A return to the child’s activities and sports is dependent on pain levels and the ability to perform without discomfort. If your child has a sprained ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a detailed examination, diagnosis, and treatment.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from DeCaro Total Foot Care Center. 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 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 our office located in West Hatfield, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The feet are often taken for granted, and they are sometimes a part of the body that gets the least respect. The feet are most likely to get injured from absorbing the body’s weight. They are responsible for various things, including providing us with mobility and balance. Many people wear shoes that do not fit correctly, and part of a good everyday foot care routine is to choose shoes that fit well. The day can begin by washing and drying the feet thoroughly, followed by applying a good moisturizer. It is beneficial to alternate pairs of shoes worn each day, and this can provide an opportunity to air the shoes out. Additionally, limiting the time flip-flops are worn can help the arch of the foot. Women who are pregnant may find their feet become swollen, and relief may be found when the feet are frequently elevated. If you would like additional tips on everyday foot care, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide you with useful information.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from DeCaro Total Foot Care Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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