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Causes and Symptoms of Ankle Instability

Ankle instability refers to a recurring sense of weakness that makes the ankle feel unreliable during walking or activity. One cause of ankle instability is previous ankle sprains that damaged ligaments on the outer or inner side of the ankle. High arches or flat feet can also alter weight distribution and place added strain on stabilizing tissues. Muscle weakness, poor coordination, or nerve-related conditions may interfere with the body’s ability to respond quickly to uneven surfaces. In some cases, arthritis, scar tissue, or loose joint structures contribute to ongoing instability. A podiatrist can evaluate ankle alignment, ligament integrity, and gait mechanics to determine the underlying cause. Treatment may involve bracing, targeted exercises, footwear guidance, or advanced care to restore stability and reduce the risk of further injury. If it feels like your ankle is "giving way," it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our doctors from Godoy Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors 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 Wayne, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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When an Ankle Injury Is More Than a Twist

Ankle injuries are common, and it can be difficult to tell the difference between a sprain and a fracture without proper evaluation. Both often occur after a fall, misstep, or sudden twist and can cause immediate pain, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight. A sprained ankle involves stretched or torn ligaments, while a broken ankle affects one or more bones. Symptoms may include bruising, stiffness, and instability along with swelling, tenderness, limited motion. The ankle may look puffy or misshapen and it can feel sharp, throbbing, or weak, especially during movement. Causes range from sports injuries to uneven surfaces or simple accidents. A podiatrist can help by performing a detailed examination and ordering imaging to accurately diagnose the injury and rule out fractures. Treatment may begin with immobilization, rest, and supportive devices, and can progress to targeted exercises, bracing, or surgical care depending on severity. If you have an ankle injury, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact one of our doctors from Godoy Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

  • Pain at the sight of the tear
  • Bruising/Swelling
  • Ankle area is tender to touch
  • In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
  • Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

  • Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
  • Stretching before exercises and sports
  • Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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

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Stop Your Toenail Fungus

Have you noticed discoloration of your toenails? Have they become thickened or brittle? If so, you may be experiencing symptoms of a fungal nail infection. For some, having a fungal nail can be embarrassing. Overcome your embarrassment, and get treated.

Measuring Your Foot at Home to Get the Right Shoe Size

Measuring your foot is a simple way to ensure proper shoe fit and avoid discomfort. To measure length, place your heel against a wall and mark the tip of your longest toe, then measure the distance. To measure width, wrap a soft tape measure around the widest part of your foot, and then use a conversion chart to determine the correct shoe size. Wearing shoes that do not fit properly can lead to blisters, bunions, corns, hammertoes, and even long-term joint pain. A podiatrist can assess your foot shape, gait, and any underlying conditions while recommending supportive shoes or custom orthotics for comfort and protection. If you have foot pain from wearing the wrong shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on additional tips for finding your right shoe size.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of one of our doctors from Godoy Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

  • When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
  • Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
  • Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
  • Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
  • If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

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

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Recognizing and Finding Relief From Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are small growths that develop on the bottom of the foot, most often on weight-bearing areas like the heel or ball of the foot. They are caused by a virus that enters the skin through tiny openings, leading to thick, rough skin that may be painful when walking or standing. These warts are contagious and can spread through direct contact or shared surfaces, like locker room floors, pools, or showers. Plantar warts are often mistaken for calluses, but they usually contain small dark dots, which are actually clotted blood vessels. A podiatrist can provide relief by safely reducing thickened skin, applying targeted topical treatment, or using freezing techniques to destroy wart tissue. If you believe you have a plantar wart, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our doctors from Godoy Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

  • Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
  • Hard or thick callused spots
  • Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
  • Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

  • Freezing
  • Electric tool removal
  • Laser Treatment
  • Topical Creams (prescription only)
  • Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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

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