A swollen ankle can have many causes, ranging from mild to serious conditions. It often follows an injury, such as a sprain or fracture, where ligaments or bones are damaged. Swelling may also involve infections or inflammatory problems like arthritis, which is joint inflammation that leads to pain and stiffness. Circulation issues can also play a role. Conditions that affect blood flow, such as blood clots or vein problems, may cause fluid to collect in the lower leg and ankle. Certain medications, long periods of standing or sitting, pregnancy, and excess body weight may also contribute to swelling. In some cases, ankle swelling may signal a more serious medical concern that needs prompt attention. A podiatrist can examine the ankle, review medical history, and use imaging like X-rays to identify the cause. If you have a swollen ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and  appropriate treatment.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Advanced Podiatry and Wound Care. 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 tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• 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 St. Petersburg, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Finding the right fit for hiking boots is essential for comfort and injury prevention on the trail. Start by checking the length to ensure there is enough room in the toe box without crowding. The width should feel secure without squeezing the sides of the foot. The heel should stay in place without slipping, which helps prevent blisters and instability. Small fit adjustments, such as lacing techniques and supportive socks, can improve overall comfort. Poorly fitted boots can increase risk of foot pain, blisters, and strain during long hikes. A podiatrist can evaluate foot shape, recommend proper footwear, and provide guidance for better support. If you have experienced foot or ankle pain from wearing hiking boots, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide treatment and offer additional guidance on choosing hiking boots that fit correctly.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Podiatry and Wound Care. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

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

Running with plantar fasciitis can be difficult because it puts stress on the bottom of the foot. The plantar fascia is a strong band of tissue that supports the arch and absorbs impact during movement. When this tissue becomes irritated, runners may feel sharp heel pain or soreness along the foot. Continuing to run without proper precautions can increase strain and delay healing. A podiatrist can examine foot structure, walking patterns, and running form to find the source of stress. Imaging may be used to confirm the condition and rule out other problems. Suggestions for running with plantar fasciitis include custom orthotics, better footwear support, and a plan to improve strength and flexibility in the foot and ankle. If you are a runner with symptoms of plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and a safe activity plan.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Podiatry and Wound Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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