Items filtered by date: September 2024

Acute foot and ankle injuries, such as sprains, fractures, or tendon tears, are common in sports and can range from mild to severe. These injuries typically occur due to sudden trauma, such as twisting the ankle or landing awkwardly. Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the injury. Mild sprains might heal within a few weeks, allowing a return to sports after about two to four weeks. More severe injuries, like fractures or torn ligaments, can take several months to fully heal, with recovery often extending to three to six months or more. Rest and gradual reintroduction to activity are important for preventing re-injury and regaining full strength and mobility. Rushing back too soon can lead to complications and prolonged recovery. If you have sustained a foot or ankle injury from sports, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis 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 feel free to contact our office located in Deerfield Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The Achilles tendon links your calf muscles to your heel and is extremely susceptible to injuries, especially in people who are physically active. Achilles tendinopathy involves chronic microtears in the tendon. Acute ruptures occur when the tendon may partially or fully tear, which may feel like a sudden blow to the ankle. Symptoms range from pain and stiffness in the back of the heel to swelling and difficulty walking. Contributing factors include sudden increases in activity, wearing poor footwear, and tight calf muscles. Relief often involves keeping weight off the affected ankle, which may require crutches. Stretching and strengthening exercises and orthotics or foot taping can also provide support. In cases of a complete tear, urgent medical attention is required, and a podiatrist might recommend wearing a specially fitted boot to control ankle movement. If you have injured your Achilles tendon, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, 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.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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.

Pain in the ball of the foot, known as metatarsalgia, can result from various factors. One common cause is excessive pressure from wearing ill-fitting shoes, which compress the forefoot and lead to discomfort. High-impact activities and sports can also contribute to pain by putting repetitive stress on the metatarsal bones. Additionally, conditions such as bunions or Morton’s neuroma can cause localized pain and swelling. Inflammatory conditions like arthritis and tendinitis can increase discomfort in the ball of the foot. Additionally, flat feet or high arches can alter foot mechanics, adding pressure on the metatarsals. Managing this pain involves choosing supportive footwear, adjusting activity levels, and seeking medical advice from a podiatrist to address underlying conditions. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose what is going on and provide treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, 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.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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 care needs.

Arthritis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling. There are several types of arthritis, the most common being osteoarthritis, which results from wear and tear of the joints over time, and rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the joints. Other types include gout, which occurs due to uric acid buildup, and psoriatic arthritis, associated with the skin condition psoriasis. Arthritis can significantly affect the feet, causing pain and limiting mobility. Symptoms include joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and a reduced range of motion, often worsening with activity or after periods of inactivity. The feet can be particularly vulnerable, as they bear the body's weight, making walking and standing painful. If you have painful arthritis that is impacting your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for advice on alleviating symptoms and managing the condition.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, 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.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is 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 care needs.