An ankle sprain occurs when one or more ligaments in the ankle are stretched or torn, usually as a result of twisting or rolling the foot in an unnatural direction. Symptoms of a sprained ankle include pain, swelling, bruising, tenderness, and a limited ability to place weight on the affected foot. Discoloration and stiffness may also develop. Ankle sprains can happen during sports activities, walking on an uneven surface, or simply from wearing shoes that do not offer proper support. In more severe ankle sprains, tendons, cartilage, or nearby blood vessels may also be affected. A podiatrist can assess the sprain through a physical examination and imaging tests, such as an X-ray or MRI, to rule out fractures and identify the extent of the ligament damage. Depending on the severity, a podiatrist may recommend immobilizing the joint with a brace or boot. In some cases, surgery may be needed to restore joint stability and function. If you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.
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 Foot and Ankle 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 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 Egg Harbor Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments that support the ankle stretch beyond their limits or tear, often resulting from a sudden twist or roll of the foot. Common causes include uneven surfaces, improper footwear, lack of warm-up before activity, and previous ankle injuries that weaken stability. Athletes and individuals with poor balance or weak ankle muscles are especially at risk. To help prevent ankle sprains, it is important to maintain strength and flexibility in the lower legs and ankles. Wearing supportive shoes and practicing good technique during physical activity also play a key role. Avoiding sudden changes in movement and being mindful on unstable surfaces can reduce the chance of injury. If you have sustained a foot or ankle injury while running, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat foot problems and help you with additional running injury prevention methods.
Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
How to Prevent Running Injuries
Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.
What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries? - One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury. - Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.
Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries - Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury. - Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Egg Harbor Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Ingrown toenails can be painful and can make wearing shoes or walking uncomfortable. Seek professional help if you believe you've developed an ingrown toenail and be treated safely.
Pronation and supination describe how the feet move during walking or running. Pronation occurs when the foot rolls inward, placing more weight on the inside edge, often flattening the arch. Supination is the opposite, with the foot rolling outward and weight shifting to the outer edge. Both are natural motions, but when either is excessive, it can lead to imbalance and discomfort. Overpronation may result in pain in the arch, heel, or ankle, while too much supination can strain the outer foot and cause heel pain or calluses. The uneven wear on shoe soles can often reveal if a person’s gait leans inward or outward. Factors such as high arches, leg length differences, past injuries, or prolonged standing on hard surfaces can contribute to these gait patterns. A podiatrist can assess the alignment of your foot and ankle, examine the extent of pronation or supination, and recommend orthotics or footwear changes to reduce strain and prevent further injury. If you have gait issues that are causing foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, possible gait analysis, and treatment options.
If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Biomechanics in Podiatry
Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.
A History of Biomechanics
Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.
Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.
Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Egg Harbor Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
