A broken pinky toe often occurs from direct trauma, such as stubbing the toe against furniture or dropping a heavy object on the foot. It can also result from repetitive stress or overuse during physical activities that place pressure on the feet. Individuals with weakened bones or poor footwear support may be more susceptible. Symptoms of a broken pinky toe include sharp or throbbing pain, swelling, and visible bruising. The toe may appear crooked or misaligned, and walking can become difficult due to discomfort or instability. In some cases, the pain may persist even at rest. If you have broken your pinky toe, it is suggested that you promptly contact a podiatrist who can offer you appropriate treatment solutions.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Steven Sheridan from Ankle & Foot Specialty Clinics. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

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

Offloading devices are used to reduce pressure on specific areas of the foot where ulcers have formed, helping to prevent further damage and support healing. Offloading devices typically shift body weight away from the wound, which decreases friction and mechanical stress. Total contact casts provide the highest level of pressure relief by fully immobilizing the foot and ankle, making them effective for deep or persistent ulcers. For patients needing more flexibility, removable cast walkers not only offer protection but also allow access for wound inspection. Custom orthotics and specialized shoes with cushioned soles are often used for less severe ulcers or during the later stages of healing. Offloading sandals and pneumatic boots may help with minor ulcers by offering light support and comfort for indoor use. Choosing the right device depends on the size and depth of the ulcer, the location on the foot, and the patient’s ability to move independently. If you have foot ulcers that require wound care, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to see if offloading devices may work for you.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Dr. Steven Sheridan from Ankle & Foot Specialty Clinics. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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

Gymnastics places significant stress on the feet and ankles, leading to a variety of injuries. Frequent jumping, landing, and twisting movements increase the risk of strain and trauma. Sprains occur when ligaments are stretched or torn, often from missteps or awkward landings. Fractures can result from repetitive impact or high-force landings on hard surfaces. Tendonitis develops when overuse causes inflammation in the tendons, leading to pain and stiffness. Stress fractures are small cracks in the bones caused by repeated pressure and insufficient recovery time. Additionally, contusions and bruises may also occur from direct impact. Strengthening exercises, proper technique, and wearing supportive footwear help reduce injury risk. If you have injured your foot or ankle while participating in gymnastics, it is suggested that you promptly visit a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Dr. Steven Sheridan of Ankle & Foot Specialty Clinics. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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