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The ankle joint is defined as a hinge between the foot and the leg. There are bands of tissues that are referred to as ligaments, and these can tear as a result of a sprained ankle. This can happen as the ankle twists from falling, or while suddenly stepping off a curb. Common symptoms of an ankle sprain include severe pain, swelling,  and difficulty walking. If you have sprained your ankle, mild relief may be felt when the foot is elevated, and it is advised to refrain from putting any weight on the affected ankle. If you have injured your ankle, it is strongly suggested that you speak to a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can help you to manage and treat this condition.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. Stephen Petrofsky from Florida. Our doctor 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 office located in Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

The cuboid is a small bone on the outer side of the foot. Injuries involving it can cause significant pain, and are not always the same problem. Some people develop stress fractures from repeated impact during running or sports, while others injure the area during an ankle twist that affects the joints surrounding the bone. Direct trauma, such as dropping something heavy on the foot, can also lead to bruising or fracture. Pain is often felt along the outer edge foot, especially with walking, standing, or pushing off. Because these injuries can resemble ankle sprains, tendon problems, or general foot strain, proper diagnosis is important. A podiatrist can examine the foot, assess stability, and order imaging when needed, to identify the exact injury and guide treatment. If you have ongoing pain on the outer side of your foot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with Dr. Stephen Petrofsky from Florida. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

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

Athlete's foot is a common fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet. It is caused by fungi that thrive in warm moist environments, such as locker rooms and sweaty shoes. This condition often appears between the toes, but can also spread to the soles and sides of the feet. Risk factors include poor foot hygiene, wearing tight footwear, and frequent exposure to damp surfaces. Symptoms include itching, burning, redness, peeling skin, and sometimes cracking or blistering. A podiatrist can diagnose the infection accurately, providing care advice and effective treatment options including antifungal medications. If you have symptoms of athlete’s foot, it  is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Dr. Stephen Petrofsky from Florida. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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

A diabetic foot ulcer is an open sore that develops on the foot due to poor circulation. It can be missed because of reduced sensation associated with diabetes. These ulcers often form from pressure, minor injuries, or irritation that goes unnoticed. Risk factors include high blood sugar levels, nerve damage, poor footwear, and limited blood flow. Antibiotics are not typically used for uninfected ulcers, as they are intended to treat bacterial infections rather than promote healing. Proper wound care, pressure relief, and monitoring are essential for recovery. A podiatrist can assess the ulcer, provide specialized treatment, and help prevent complications. Early care can protect foot health and reduce risks. If you have diabetes and have developed a foot wound or ulcer, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and management solutions.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Dr. Stephen Petrofsky from Florida. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.