Ankle sprains are common in children, especially during sports, playground activities, or accidental falls. These injuries happen when the ligaments supporting the ankle are stretched or torn, causing pain, swelling, bruising, and trouble walking. While many ankle injuries are true sprains, some more serious conditions can appear  similar at first, including growth plate injuries, fractures, or even tumors. This is why a careful evaluation is important rather than assuming the injury is minor. A podiatrist may assess the ankle through a physical examination, imaging studies, and other diagnostic tools to determine the exact cause of the pain and choose the proper treatment. Early and accurate diagnosis helps prevent delayed healing or long-term problems with stability and movement. If your child has ankle pain, swelling, or difficulty walking after an injury, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, 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 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 offices located in Oklahoma City and Yukon, OK . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition in which the cartilage within the ankle gradually wears down, leading to pain and reduced mobility. This condition often develops after previous injuries, such as fractures or sprains, but it can also result from long-term joint stress or inflammation. Risk factors include aging, excess body weight, repetitive strain, and footwear that fails to support the joint. Common symptoms include stiffness, swelling, tenderness, and difficulty walking or bearing weight. A podiatrist can evaluate joint function, order imaging, and recommend supportive footwear, custom orthotics, and targeted exercises. Early care can slow progression and relieve discomfort. If you have symptoms of ankle arthritis, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition, and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, 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.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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

Foot pain can affect daily movement and overall comfort. It may result from injuries such as sprains, fractures, or overuse, as well as  improper footwear that lacks support. Medical conditions, including arthritis and diabetes, can also contribute to ongoing foot discomfort. Risk factors include high-impact activity, poor foot mechanics, and prolonged standing. Symptoms range from mild soreness to sharp, limiting pain. A podiatrist can evaluate the cause, provide accurate diagnosis, and recommend treatments like orthotics or targeted therapy. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer appropriate treatment solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with our doctors from Foot & Ankle Center of Oklahoma. 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 Oklahoma City and Yukon, OK . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An ingrown toenail develops when the edge of a nail grows into the surrounding skin, most often affecting the big toe. This can lead to pain, redness, and swelling of the skin surrounding the nail, making walking uncomfortable. Common causes include improper nail trimming, wearing tight shoes, obesity, and repetitive activities that place extra pressure on the toes, like kicking a ball. Risk factors also include curved nails and poor foot hygiene. Early care can prevent worsening symptoms or infection. A podiatrist can safely treat the condition, relieve discomfort, and provide guidance on proper nail care and footwear. If you notice signs of an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, which may include minor surgery for removal.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, 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.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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.