Items filtered by date: February 2022

When you experience a twisted foot or ankle, it can cause another injury sometimes called a dancer’s fracture. If the toe is pointed downward as the ankle twists outward, a spiral fracture to the 5th metatarsal may result. This injury, which curves lengthwise down the foot bone, causes immediate pain, swelling and difficulty walking. The outside of the foot may turn black-and-blue and be tender to the touch. This condition frequently takes at least six weeks to heal, and even then can be problematic, especially if ligaments are also affected. It is suggested that anyone receiving this type of injury make an appointment to see a podiatrist immediately to get an X-ray and complete examination. The foot will likely be placed in a boot for a number of weeks and bearing weight will be limited. Other treatment options may be recommended.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, 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.

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 Sandusky, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Sprained ankles are a common injury, particularly among athletes. They cause symptoms such as pain, swelling, a limited range of motion, and difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected ankle. Ankle sprains occur when one or more of the ligaments in the ankle are overstretched or torn. There are two main types of ankle sprains – high ankle sprains and lateral ankle sprains. While their symptoms are similar, treatments can vary. Because of this, getting a proper diagnosis is very important. A podiatrist can diagnose the type of ankle sprain that you have by completing a thorough physical examination of the ankle. Imaging tests may also be used. If you suspect that you may have sprained your ankle, it is strongly suggested that you seek the care of a podiatrist. 

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Dr. Steven Sheridan from Ankle & Foot Specialty Clinics. Our doctor 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 Sandusky, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

While heel pain is predominantly caused by plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, flat feet, or by wearing shoes with inadequate cushioning, in rare cases it may be linked to a heel bone tumor. There are several types of heel bone tumors, which are mostly benign. Although some benign tumors in the heel bone are asymptomatic, there may be pain in the heel (which often occurs in the evening), and localized swelling in the ankle. Symptoms may also include heat and redness. Any type of heel pain should be assessed by a podiatrist as soon as possible. They will examine you and may perform an X-ray or other diagnostic imaging to make a proper diagnosis. Early detection and management are essential in yielding the best outcomes in the treatment of any type of heel pain, and particularly in the case of a heel bone tumor.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. 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.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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

When skin becomes damaged due to friction, a small bubble of fluid can form in the epidermis in order to protect the layers of skin beneath it which allow the skin to heal. Blisters are typically filled with a clear serum, but in some cases where there is excess pressure or friction, the sac may fill with blood. If the blister becomes infected, pus may collect in the blister. An infected blister may also become red, swollen, or painful. Most blisters will heal on their own if they are left alone, allowing the new skin to grow underneath it. Blisters should not be popped, as they provide a protective barrier that keeps bacteria away from the damaged skin to ward off further damage and infection. Wearing shoes that fit properly and are flexible can go a long way in avoiding blisters from forming. Socks that are clean and keep moisture away from the skin are also beneficial, as moist skin can blister more easily. If a blister becomes infected, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can help cure the infection, help your skin to heal, and offer preventive methods to avoid the formation of blisters.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, 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.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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.