An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments supporting the ankle stretch or tear, often due to twisting or rolling the foot. Sprains are classified by grade. Grade one is mild, involving slight stretching with minimal swelling or pain. Grade two is moderate, with partial tearing, noticeable swelling, bruising, and limited mobility. Grade three is severe, a complete ligament tear causing significant instability, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight. Risk factors include previous sprains, weak ankle muscles, uneven surfaces, and wearing improper footwear. Symptoms typically include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity of the injury, recommend supportive braces and guide recovery to prevent long-term instability. If you think you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Ross Limon, DPM from Boca Deerfield Footcare Center. 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 Deerfield Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Every sport begins at ground level, with your feet. They support your body, absorb impact, and power every stride, jump, and pivot. Even small differences in foot structure, such as toe length or arch height, can influence how you move, balance, and perform. A longer big toe, for example, helps athletes push off with greater force in sprinting or skiing, while strong arches provide stability during side-to-side motions in tennis or basketball. Yet, the same mechanics that make feet powerful also make them vulnerable. Overuse, poor footwear, or uneven surfaces can lead to sprains, stress fractures, Achilles tendon injuries, or plantar fasciitis. Maintaining strength and flexibility in the feet and ankles helps prevent these issues. If you experience persistent pain or swelling in your feet or ankles from sports activity, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for evaluation and treatment.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Ross Limon, DPM from Boca Deerfield Footcare Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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

Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection that thrives in warm, moist environments such as shoes, locker rooms, and public showers. It often begins between the toes, causing itching, burning, redness, and peeling skin. Left untreated, it can spread to the soles or toenails, and may even pass to others through shared surfaces or footwear. Keeping the feet clean and dry is the first step in prevention and recovery. Changing socks regularly, wearing breathable shoes, and using antifungal powders or sprays can help stop the infection from spreading. Persistent or severe cases may require prescription-strength medication to fully clear the fungus and prevent recurrence. If you experience ongoing itching, cracking, or scaling on your feet that is persistent, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a precise diagnosis and effective treatment plan.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Ross Limon, DPM from Boca Deerfield Footcare Center.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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

Thick toenails are caused by a fungus that causes the toenails to become discolored, thickened, and brittle. The nails may appear yellow, white, or even brown, and can sometimes separate from the nail bed. This infection, known as onychomycosis, typically involves fungi that thrive in warm, damp environments, such as sweaty shoes or communal areas like swimming pools. Poor foot hygiene, a weakened immune system, or diabetes can also increase the risk of developing onychomycosis. Symptoms include thickened, misshapen nails, crumbling edges, and a foul odor. If left untreated, the infection can worsen, sometimes leading to pain and difficulty walking. A podiatrist is trained to diagnose and treat toenail fungus effectively. Treatments may include antifungal medications, topical solutions, or, in severe cases, nail removal. Your podiatrist will assess the severity of the condition and recommend the best course of treatment. If you have symptoms of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment, which may include prescribed medication.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Ross Limon, DPM of Boca Deerfield Footcare Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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