May 2022

Injuries to your ankle such as sprains, strains, and breaks may feel similar, but are different. Sprains occur when there is an unnatural stretch or tear in the ligament(s) that support and bind the ankle. There may be an audible pop when you sprain your ankle, and there will be varying degrees of pain, bruising, swelling, and inflammation, and even a deformity, depending on the severity of the sprain. It may be difficult or even impossible to walk on the affected foot. Strains occur when tendons or muscles around the ankle are stretched or pulled repetitively or excessively. The symptoms of an ankle strain are similar, and may also include cramping and muscle spasms. Breaks are chips, fractures, or complete breaks in one or more of the bones in your ankle. Walking on a broken ankle may be impossible. Regardless of which injury has occurred, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist right away to be properly diagnosed and treated.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with the practitioners from Foot Care Institute. Our practitioners 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
• 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 Windsor, ON . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Shin splints occur when muscles that connect with the shin bone (tibia) located under the knee become irritated and inflamed from overuse. The medical term for shin splints is medial tibial stress syndrome, also known as MTSS. This condition can occur in physically active individuals and athletes when they do not warm up adequately, increase the intensity of their workouts too rapidly, run on hard surfaces, or wear improper shoes. Pain can be felt across the shin, from the knee to the ankle, and can sometimes be mistaken for other conditions. If you believe you are developing shin splints, consult with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat your condition. Some treatment methods may include custom orthotics, anti-inflammatory medications, physical and massage therapy, and recommending proper footwear. If you are a runner, your podiatrist will evaluate how you run and offer suggestions for stride modifications.

Foot therapy is often necessary for those recovering from either foot deformities or foot injuries. If you have concerns regarding therapy, the practitioners of Foot Care Institute. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Most Common Injuries

People who are active or athletes are prone to a variety of injuries. Therefore, it is often important to take part in physical therapy in order to quickly get back on the right track. 

What to Do When Injured

Physical Therapy – This specialized treatment will focus on the affected area, speeding up recovery and the overall healing process. It is a proven method that has helped millions of people return from any injury.

During physical therapy you will undergo regimented training to get back into full form. Training is often very difficult, especially at first when the foot feels weak. Physical therapy often involves:

Basic stretching and twisting exercises – getting the feet’s mobility and flexibility up.

Massaging – the therapist will massage the injured area in order to activate the muscles and relax them.

Strengthening Exercises – this allows the muscles in the affected area to regain their full strength, a vital step towards full recovery.

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

Diabetics who have long battled with high blood sugar levels are top candidates for foot problems that develop because of nerve damage and constricted blood flow to the feet and toes. These conditions often cause numbness that makes it difficult for the diabetic to detect hot and cold sensations, notice sores on their feet, and feel pressure from shoes that are too tight. Practicing foot care is a must for diabetics. Suggested tasks include checking for cuts, sores, wounds that don’t seem to be healing, calluses, corns, and cracks in the skin. These can all develop into ulcers that may cause serious problems, such as gangrene or even amputation, if ignored. Other measures include keeping the feet washed, thoroughly dried, and moisturized daily. Also, groom toenails properly by cutting them, or having them cut, straight across to prevent ingrown toenails that may invite infection. Protect your feet by wearing socks that are clean and dry and try to avoid walking barefoot.  Anyone with diabetes would be wise to make regular visits to a podiatrist, who can evaluate their feet and keep current with necessary treatment options. 

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact the practitioners from Foot Care Institute. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Flat feet is generally easy to notice when one is barefoot. While standing flat on the floor, a person that has flat feet will have a small or absent arch, which causes the foot to lie completely flat on the floor. There are some patients who are pregnant or overweight and will develop flat feet temporarily. When their condition changes, the feet will resume their arch. People who enjoy running may experience conditions throughout their bodies that may be related to having flat feet. Flat feet can cause over-pronation, which is when the feet roll inward. It can be a common condition among runners, and it is beneficial to maintain a healthy weight which can lessen the pressure on the feet. Additionally, it is important to follow a good training practice, which may prevent overuse injuries. If you have flat feet, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can prescribe custom made orthotics or shoe inserts specifically designed to your feet.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact the practitioners from Foot Care Institute. Our practitioners will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

Ankle sprains are injuries that affect many people, regardless of how active or inactive they may be. Ankle sprains occur when one or more of the strong ligaments that support and bind the ankle become stretched beyond their normal bounds, or even torn in severe cases. This injury causes varying degrees of pain, swelling, and mobility issues which are graded by severity. Grade 1 ankle sprains cause mild pain and swelling, and there is no visible bruising, joint instability, or difficulty bearing weight. Ligaments are minimally stretched, so recovery time generally falls within one to three weeks. With a grade 2 ankle sprain the pain, swelling, and tenderness can range from mild to moderate. There may be some joint instability and bruising. Bearing weight may be painful, and it may be difficult to move the ankle. The recovery time typically doubles, because the ligament has been partially torn. A grade 3 ankle sprain is the most severe because the ligament(s) have torn fully or ruptured. This causes severe pain, swelling, bruising, and tenderness. It is impossible to walk due to the ankle being considerably unstable and unable to bear weight. Also, a grade 3 ankle sprain can take several months to fully heal. If you believe you have sprained your ankle, make an appointment with a podiatrist as soon as possible.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact the practitioners from Foot Care Institute. Our practitioners 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 Windsor, ON . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.