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Grades of Ankle Sprains

An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle are stretched or torn, usually due to twisting or rolling the foot. Ankle sprains are grouped into grades, depending on the severity. Grade 1 symptoms include mild pain, and generally no bruising. A grade 2 sprain consists of moderate pain and joint instability. Additionally, loss of function and range of motion can accompany a grade 3 sprain. Temporary relief can be found by resting the ankle, applying compression with an elastic bandage, and elevating it to reduce swelling. A podiatrist can evaluate the injury, recommend targeted exercises, and provide support to prevent future sprains. If you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can determine the severity and provide effective treatment solutions.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Ankle N Foot. 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 take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

  • Mild to moderate bruising
  • Limited mobility
  • Swelling
  • Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

  • Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
  • Stretching before exercises and sports
  • Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Chicago, Elmhurst, Bartlett, IL and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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Heel Pain From Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. It happens when the thick band of tissue that connects the heel to the toes becomes irritated or strained. This band, called the plantar fascia, helps support the arch of the foot. When it becomes inflamed, it can cause sharp pain that is often worse first thing in the morning, or after long periods of inactivity. Anyone can develop plantar fasciitis, although it is more common in people who spend a lot of time on their feet, wear unsupportive shoes, or have flat feet or very high arches. While the condition can be stubborn, it often improves with proper treatment. Rest, targeted stretching exercises, supportive footwear, and custom orthotics may ease symptoms, and a podiatrist can recommend additional therapies, if needed. If heel pain is interfering with your daily life, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists  from Ankle N Foot. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

  • Excessive running
  • Non-supportive shoes
  • Overpronation
  • Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

  • Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
  • Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
  • Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Chicago, Elmhurst, Bartlett, IL and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Plantar Fasciitis

Why Do Bunions Develop?

A bunion is a foot condition where there is a bony protrusion on the side of the big toe. It can develop as a result of genetic factors or from wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. Larger shoes may need to be purchased for existing bunions, and it may be difficult to walk. Additionally, patients may notice the affected joint has become stiff and red, and it may be challenging to maintain balance. Specific foot stretches and exercises may be beneficial in improving general foot function by strengthening the muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Wearing custom-made orthotics may help to reduce the discomfort from having a bunion, and toe separators may help to alleviate a portion of the pain. If you have a painful bunion, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can recommend treatment options, which may include surgery for permanent removal.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact one of our podiatrists of Ankle N Foot. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

  • Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
  • Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

  • Redness and inflammation
  • Pain and tenderness
  • Callus or corns on the bump
  • Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Chicago, Elmhurst, Bartlett, IL and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Why Pain in the Ball of Your Foot May Be Metatarsalgia

Metatarsalgia causes pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot, often described as a burning, aching, or a sharp sensation beneath the toes. It may feel like standing on a pebble or sharp object, especially during walking or running. Causes include high-impact activities, improper footwear, excess weight, or wearing high heels. Symptoms may worsen with activity and improve with rest, and the area may appear slightly swollen or red. A podiatrist can diagnose metatarsalgia through a physical examination, gait analysis, and imaging tests, such as X-rays. Treatment options include custom orthotics, footwear changes, anti-inflammatory medications, and stretching exercises. In more persistent cases, additional procedures may be recommended. Addressing the condition early can prevent further complications and improve mobility. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to receive a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Ankle N Foot. our doctors 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 offices located in Chicago, Elmhurst, Bartlett, IL and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Foot Pain

Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

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