Items filtered by date: March 2024

Acute ankle sprains are common injuries when the ligaments surrounding the ankle are stretched or torn. There are three main types of sprains. They are inversion, eversion, and high ankle sprains. Inversion sprains, the most prevalent, happen when the foot rolls inward, stretching the lateral ligaments. Eversion sprains occur when the foot rolls outward, affecting the medial ligaments. High ankle sprains involve the ligaments connecting the tibia and fibula and typically result from excessive external rotation of the foot. These injuries often transpire during activities involving sudden changes in direction, uneven surfaces, or improper landing from jumps. If not adequately treated, acute ankle sprains can lead to chronic ankle instability. This occurs when the ligaments do not heal properly, resulting in recurring episodes of instability, pain, and potential long-term joint damage. Chronic instability may necessitate rehabilitation exercises, bracing, or even surgery to regain stability and prevent further injury. If you have sprained your ankle, and especially if you have had recurrent ankle sprains, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for expert evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Jennifer Swan, DPM from Right Step Foot Care. Our doctor 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 Westerville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Morton's neuroma is a painful condition that affects the ball of the foot, primarily between the third and fourth toes. It occurs when the tissue around one of the nerves leading to the toes thickens, which can cause a sharp, burning pain in the foot. This thickening is often a response to irritation, pressure, or injury to the nerve. Patients commonly report feeling like they are stepping on a pebble or have a knot in their sock. Other symptoms include a burning sensation in the ball of the foot that may radiate into the toes, numbness, and tingling in the affected toes. These symptoms can get worse with certain activities that put pressure on the foot, like running or wearing high heels. Incorrect footwear that cramps the toes together can also contribute to the condition by putting additional pressure on the nerves in the foot. If you are experiencing pain in the ball of the foot, or suspect Morton’s neuroma, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment options. 

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Jennifer Swan, DPM of Right Step Foot Care. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

Taking care of your feet is essential for overall well-being, given that the average person takes between 8,000 to 10,000 steps per day. Daily foot care helps to prevent injuries and alleviate discomfort in the feet, knees, hips, and back. Wearing appropriate shoes tailored to specific activities will ensure adequate support. When purchasing new footwear, factors such as cushioning, arch support, and shock absorption should be prioritized. Regularly inspecting shoes for wear and tear is also important, as worn-out shoes can contribute to foot problems. Additionally, it's advisable to minimize walking barefoot on hard surfaces to avoid inflammation. Pedicures can be beneficial for foot maintenance, provided personal tools are used to reduce the risk of infections. Incorporating stretching exercises and regular foot massages into your routine can further enhance foot health and overall well-being. By following these practices, you can improve comfort, productivity, and quality of life, one step at a time. If foot or ankle issues occur from time to time, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to have your feet examined, a proper diagnosis made, and appropriate treatment administered.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Jennifer Swan, DPM from Right Step Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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

Foot related issues are frequently encountered in older adults. Because of this, foot care is important for enhancing the overall health and well-being of this population. Various foot problems commonly seen in older individuals include bunions, corns, calluses, and issues related to toenails. These types of foot conditions can negatively impact mobility, independence, and quality of life in elderly people. Regular foot care routines in older adults include keeping the feet clean and dry, wearing properly fitting shoes, and examining the feet regularly. If you are an older adult, it is suggested that you include a podiatrist on your healthcare team. Finding and addressing foot problems early is valuable to prevent more serious issues, in addition to enhancing overall quality of life.

If you need your feet checked, contact Jennifer Swan, DPM of Right Step Foot Care. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Westerville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.