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Ankle Sprains in Athletes

Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries in athletes, caused by overstretching or tearing the ligaments that stabilize the joint. They often occur during sudden movements like jumping, pivoting, or uneven landings. Each sprain is unique, ranging from mild to severe, depending on the extent of ligament damage. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. Immediate care involves rest, which helps reduce swelling and pain. However, more severe sprains may require medical attention and targeted stretching to ensure proper healing and avoid long-term instability. Prevention strategies include strengthening exercises, ankle taping, wearing supportive footwear, and avoiding risky movements. If you have persistent pain or repeated ankle sprains, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to develop a treatment plan and ensure a safe return to sports.

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 Dr. Kenneth Donovan from Advanced Care Foot and Ankle. 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 one of our offices located in Warren, Livingston, and Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Is My Ankle Broken?

A broken ankle can cause immediate and severe pain, along with visible bruising, swelling, and sometimes joint deformity. In some cases, the ankle may appear misshapen or out of alignment, and you may be unable to bear weight on the injured foot. The most common causes of a broken ankle include falls, sports injuries, or accidents that involve twisting or rolling the ankle. Treatment for a broken ankle typically includes elevation along with immobilization, using a cast or brace. If the fracture is more severe or displaced, surgery may be needed to realign the bones and secure them with pins, plates, or screws. Proper diagnosis and treatment are key to ensure the ankle heals correctly and to prevent long-term complications like instability or arthritis. Visiting a podiatrist can help you get the right care. If you suspect you have broken your ankle, it is suggested that you make an emergency appointment with a podiatrist.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Kenneth Donovan from Advanced Care Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

  • Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
  • Swelling around the area
  • Bruising of the area
  • Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Warren, Livingston, and Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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The Impact of Falling on the Feet and How to Prevent Injuries

Falling can significantly affect the feet, leading to injuries such as sprains, fractures, or bruises. When a person falls, the feet often bear the brunt of the impact, which can cause immediate pain and long-term complications. Several risk factors contribute to falls, including poor balance, weak muscles, slippery surfaces, and wearing improper footwear. People with certain health conditions, like diabetes or poor vision, may also face a higher risk of falling. To prevent falls and foot injuries, it is important to maintain good balance through exercises that strengthen the lower body. Wearing well-fitted, supportive shoes with non-slip soles can reduce the likelihood of slipping. Keeping living areas free of obstacles and ensuring proper lighting can also help minimize fall risks. If you have endured foot injuries from falling, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can educate you about effective fall prevention techniques.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Dr. Kenneth Donovan from Advanced Care Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

  • Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
  • Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
  • Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
  • Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
  • Utilizing a walker or cane
  • Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
  • Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Warren, Livingston, and Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Gout Pain Can Be Managed

Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.

Tendon and Ligament Foot Injuries

Tendon and ligament injuries in the feet can cause significant pain and affect mobility, but they differ in nature and origin. Tendon injuries involve the thick bands of tissue that connect muscles to bones, enabling movement. Common tendon injuries include tendinitis, which is inflammation from overuse or strain, and tendon tears, which may result from trauma or repetitive stress. Symptoms often include localized pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the affected area. Ligament injuries, on the other hand, affect the tissues that connect bones at joints, providing stability. Sprains are the most frequent ligament injuries, occurring when ligaments are overstretched or torn, often from sudden twisting or falls. Ligament injuries can lead to joint instability, bruising, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight. A podiatrist can identify the specific cause of pain through a physical exam and digital imaging. Treatment may include targeted exercises, bracing, or surgery for severe cases. If you have foot or ankle pain related to tendons or ligaments, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Kenneth Donovan from Advanced Care Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

  • Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
  • In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Warren, Livingston, and Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about The Importance of Biomechanics in Podiatry

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