Items filtered by date: September 2024

Tibia and fibula fractures are breaks in the two bones of the lower leg. The tibia, or shinbone, is the larger, weight-bearing bone, while the fibula is the thinner bone running alongside it. These fractures commonly occur due to trauma, such as falls, car accidents, or sports injuries. Symptoms include severe pain, swelling, bruising, inability to bear weight, and in some cases, visible deformity.  Complications can include nerve or blood vessel damage, delayed healing, and infection if the fracture is open. Diagnosis typically involves a physical exam and imaging tests like X-rays or CT scans to assess the extent of the injury. Treatment varies depending on the severity, but may include casting or splinting for less severe fractures, while surgery with plates, screws, or rods may be necessary for more complex breaks. If you have sustained an ankle fracture, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist as quickly as possible.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Surgical Group. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
•  Swelling around the area
•  Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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

Ankle sprains are common injuries that occur when the ligaments supporting the ankle are stretched or torn. There are three main types, each varying in severity. The most common is the inversion ankle sprain, where the foot rolls inward, causing damage to the lateral ligaments on the outside of the ankle. This often happens during sudden twists or turns in activities like running or jumping. Less common is the eversion ankle sprain, where the foot rolls outward, affecting the medial ligaments on the inside of the ankle. Eversion sprains tend to be more severe and can sometimes be associated with fractures due to the strong ligaments involved. Lastly, high ankle sprains involve injury to the ligaments above the ankle joint, known as syndesmotic ligaments. Each of these are graded by severity. These sprains, common in sports like football and soccer, usually take longer to heal. If you have endured an ankle sprain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis, type and grade of sprain and to obtain proper treatment.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Surgical Group. 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 office located in Henderson, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle fusion surgery, also known as arthrodesis, involves joining the bones of the ankle joint to alleviate pain and improve function. This procedure is often recommended for people with severe arthritis or significant joint damage when other treatments have failed. One major advantage of ankle fusion is the reduction of pain, as the procedure eliminates the damaged joint surfaces. It can also restore stability and improve walking ability. However, there are potential drawbacks to consider. The primary downside is the loss of ankle mobility, which can impact overall movement and flexibility. Additionally, there may be a risk of complications, such as infection or nonunion of the bones. If you are suffering from the above ankle conditions, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if ankle fusion surgery is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Surgical Group. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Working on your feet all day can lead to significant foot pain, especially for people in healthcare, retail, construction, and manufacturing. Standing for prolonged periods puts undue stress on your feet. It contributes to swelling, muscle tightness, and conditions such as plantar fasciitis. The type of surface you stand on, your posture, and even your footwear can all play roles in causing this discomfort. Over time, these factors may result in chronic pain that affects your ability to work and enjoy daily activities outside of work. Seeking the help of a podiatrist is important for addressing work-related foot pain. A podiatrist can evaluate your condition, recommend appropriate footwear, and provide custom orthotics or other treatments to relieve pain and prevent further injury. If you have foot pain related to standing at work, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and treatment.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Surgical Group. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

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