Tuesday, 19 November 2024 00:00

A sprained ankle usually happens when the ankle rolls inward, leading to stretching or tearing of the ligaments on the outside of the foot. This injury can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight, although some people may still manage limited movement. Ankle sprains vary in severity, with mild cases involving minor ligament stretching, and severe cases leading to extensive tears, or ruptures, in the ankle's supporting ligaments. The risk of ankle sprains is higher in those individuals with previous sprains, high arches, or who participate in high-impact sports. Once the initial swelling subsides, certain exercises may be recommended to restore strength, balance, and range of motion, in an effort to prevent future injuries. A podiatrist can assess the severity of the injury, provide guidance on treatment options, and discuss options like bracing in severe cases. If you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a full exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact our doctors from Foot & Ankle Center of Oklahoma. 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 Oklahoma City and Yukon, OK . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Three Grades of Ankle Sprains
Tuesday, 12 November 2024 00:00

Plantar warts are small, rough growths that typically appear on the bottom of the feet, often on the balls and heels due to constant pressure. These warts are caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV, entering through small cuts or weak points in the skin. Although plantar warts often resolve on their own in children, adults may need more proactive treatment. A podiatrist can offer a variety of medical treatments to eliminate plantar warts effectively. Cryotherapy, which involves freezing the wart, is a common clinical procedure, as is using prescription-strength salicylic acid to gradually peel away the wart. For persistent cases, options like minor surgical removal, laser therapy, or immunotherapy may be recommended. These treatments aim to remove the wart and reduce the risk of recurrence by addressing both the wart itself and the virus. If you have a plantar wart, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact our doctors from Foot & Ankle Center of Oklahoma. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

  • Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
  • Hard or thick callused spots
  • Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
  • Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

  • Freezing
  • Electric tool removal
  • Laser Treatment
  • Topical Creams (prescription only)
  • Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Oklahoma City and Yukon, OK . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about All About Plantar Warts
Tuesday, 05 November 2024 00:00

Infected blisters on the foot can lead to serious complications if not addressed promptly. Key signs of infection include increased redness and swelling surrounding the blister, warmth in the surrounding area, and the presence of pus or fluid that appears cloudy. Pain may intensify, and a fever can develop as the body reacts to the infection. If left untreated, an infected blister can progress to cellulitis, a potentially serious skin infection that spreads rapidly and may require antibiotics. In severe cases, the infection can enter the bloodstream, leading to sepsis, a life-threatening condition characterized by widespread inflammation and organ failure. Taking care of infected foot blisters is vital for avoiding more serious health issues. If you have a foot blister that has become infected, it is suggested that you promptly contact a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief and treatment solutions.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact our doctors of Foot & Ankle Center of Oklahoma. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often 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.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Oklahoma City and Yukon, OK . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Blisters
Thursday, 31 October 2024 00:00

Have you noticed discoloration of your toenails? Have they become thickened or brittle? If so, you may be experiencing symptoms of a fungal nail infection. For some, having a fungal nail can be embarrassing. Overcome your embarrassment, and get treated.

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