June 2019

Stability in the foot is provided when the foot and ankle work together. There are injuries that can occur to the feet while participating in sporting activities. These can include issues with the Achilles tendon and ankle sprains. The former may produce pain in the back of the calf and heel area, in addition to swelling and stiffness. Additionally, there may be reduced strength, and limited range of motion. Ankle injuries may occur as a result of participating in high-impact activities. Many patients can sprain their ankle if they step off a curb unexpectedly and this can force the ankle to turn beyond its normal range of motion. This injury is typically treated by elevating the foot, which may be helpful in reducing any existing swelling. It is then followed by wrapping the affected ankle in a tight elastic bandage, which may provide the necessary stability as the healing process takes place. If you have injured your foot or ankle, it is strongly advised that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist.

Foot and ankle trauma is common among athletes and the elderly. If you have concerns that you may have experienced trauma to the foot and ankle, consult with Dr. Stephen Petrofsky from Florida. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Foot and ankle trauma cover a range of injuries all over the foot; common injuries include:

• Broken bones
• Muscle strains
• Injuries to the tendons and ligaments
• Stress fractures

Symptoms

Symptoms of foot and ankle injuries vary depending on the injury, but more common ones include:

• Bruising
• Inflammation/ Swelling
• Pain

Diagnosis

To properly diagnose the exact type of injury, podiatrists will conduct a number of different tests. Some of these include sensation and visual tests, X-rays, and MRIs. Medical and family histories will also be taken into account.

Treatment

Once the injury has been diagnosed, the podiatrist can than offer the best treatment options for you. In less severe cases, rest and keeping pressure off the foot may be all that’s necessary. Orthotics, such as a specially made shoes, or immobilization devices, like splints or casts, may be deemed necessary. Finally, if the injury is severe enough, surgery may be necessary.

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.

Athletes are known to have many foot and ankle complications. Some issues tend to affect the athletes of specific sports more than others. For example, “turf toe” is common among those who participate in football, soccer, basketball, wrestling, gymnastics, and dance. Turf toe is the spraining of the big toe joint. Another usual injury among athletes is a stress fracture. Those who run and jump on hard surfaces, such as runners, basketball players, and dancers, commonly experience fractures. Additionally, Achilles tendonitis, which is the inflammation of the back of your ankle, is seen among basketball and tennis players. Finally, a pinched nerve condition known as tarsal tunnel syndrome is seen among various types of athletes. Considering the extra stress athletes put on their bodies, it is no surprise that they are prone to foot and ankle injuries. These people in particular should look out for complications so they can continue performing in their respective sport effectively. If you believe you may have a foot or ankle injury due to a sport, you should contact a podiatrist.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Dr. Stephen Petrofsky of Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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 and ankle needs.

Research has indicated that many flip-flops do not provide adequate support nor shock absorption that the feet need for comfort. The function of flip-flops is to cover the bottom of the feet, but arch support is not present in many of these types of shoes. While flip-flops are being worn, the muscles and ligaments in the feet may change slightly, and this can negatively affect the joints next to them. This can produce a chain effect that may be harmful to the rest of the body. It is suggested to wear flip flops in moderation, or if you are going to be sitting for the majority of the day. If you would like additional information about how flip-flops can affect the feet, it is advised that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist.

Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Stephen Petrofsky from Florida. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops.  Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off; they're perfect for any summer beach goer.  However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.

How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?

• Ankle problems
• Hip problems
• Lower back problems
• Pain in the balls of the feet
• Problems with foot arches
• Changes in the way you walk

Are There Injuries Associated with Flip-Flops?

Yes.  Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops regularly are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections.  Common injuries and ailments include:

• Sprained ankles
• Blisters
• Infections
• Cuts and Scrapes

I like Wearing Flip-Flops. Are There Safe Alternatives?

When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and that are made of high-quality materials that will support for your feet.  These flip-flops will cost more but will also last longer as a result.

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 and ankle needs.

Your child may experience heel pain during a growth spurt. This condition is commonly known as Sever’s disease. Since the heel grows faster than the rest of the leg, the tendons experience extra strain. Symptoms of Sever’s disease include pain in one or both of the heels, tenderness that increases during exercise, and trouble walking. Oftentimes, the best treatment is rest. The condition does not cause long-term issues and should subside after a few months. However, sometimes doctors will recommend that a child takes NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, performs stretching routines, and wears supportive shoes. Be especially cognizant for Sever’s disease if your child plays a sport that includes running or jumping on hard surfaces. If your child is experiencing heel pain, be sure to contact a podiatrist.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Dr. Stephen Petrofsky from Florida. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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 and ankle injuries.