Items filtered by date: February 2024

A sign of ankle impingement is the appearance of bony growths that restrict normal range of motion. There are two types of ankle impingement, anterior and posterior. Anterior impingement often follows ankle sprains, resulting in persistent pain at the front or sides of the ankle, weakness, and discomfort during dorsiflexion. With posterior impingement, more common among ballet dancers, the pain is at the back of the ankle and often occurs when pointing the toes or tiptoeing. Impingement syndrome arises when tissues become trapped between bones during extreme ankle movements. Ligament thickening and scar tissue formation can worsen the condition. In severe cases of ankle impingement, surgical intervention may be necessary. If you experience intense pain when either flexing or pointing your feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to determine whether you have an ankle impingement.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our doctors from Advanced Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Needham, Norwood, and Hanover, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Bunions, a foot deformity that impacts mobility and causes discomfort, afflicts millions of people across the globe. These bony protrusions form at the base of the big toe, gradually pushing it outward while forcing the tip to move toward the other toes. Despite common misconceptions, bunions are not solely caused by wearing ill-fitting shoes. Rather, they often stem from inherited structural issues, such as foot mechanics or arthritis. Bunions tend to worsen over time, leading to swelling, redness, and pain, especially when wearing tight or narrow footwear. Bunions can hinder daily activities and contribute to other foot ailments, like corns and calluses. While conservative measures, such as wearing wider shoes, using toe spacers, and applying ice packs can provide temporary relief, surgical intervention may be necessary for severe cases to realign the toe joint and alleviate discomfort. If you have developed a bony protrusion at the base of your big toe, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can confirm a bunion diagnosis, and offer relief and treatment options.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our doctors of Advanced Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Needham, Norwood, and Hanover, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.