Dr. Kennan T. Runte, DPM, FACFAS
Dr. Panah Nabili, DPM
Constant care and regular evaluation are important for a foot or ankle fracture. If left untreated, foot or ankle fractures can worsen over time and create more serious problems.
Don't wait to be examined if you believe you've experienced a foot or ankle fracture.
A baby’s feet develop best when they have room to move. Before a baby begins walking outdoors, shoes are unnecessary. In fact, bare feet allow the toes to bend and help foot muscles grow stronger on safe indoor surfaces. Socks provide warmth, but they should not squeeze the toes. Once a child starts walking outdoors, shoes protect the feet from rough ground, sharp objects, and hot surfaces. A toddler’s first pair should be light, flexible, and shaped like the child’s foot. A firm heel area can provide stability without making the shoe stiff.
Proper fit is important because babies and toddlers cannot always explain discomfort. There should be about a finger’s width of space between the longest toe and the shoe’s front. The toe box should let the toes spread without rubbing. Shoes should fit securely at the heel without pinching or slipping. Choose a flexible, non-skid sole that bends near the ball of the foot. Fasteners should keep the shoe in place during play. Parents should check the fit monthly because young feet grow quickly. Red marks, blisters, or changes in walking can signal that the shoes are too tight. Secondhand shoes can be a poor choice because they may already be shaped to another child’s foot.
Podiatric care is helpful when a child frequently trips, avoids walking, or appears to have foot pain. A podiatrist can examine a child’s feet and watch how the child stands and walks. This can identify any problems with balance, foot position, or movement. The podiatrist also can measure both feet and explain which shoe shape offers enough space and support. Some toddlers have one foot that is larger, so shoes should fit the larger foot. An exam can determine whether unusual wear patterns relate to the shoes or foot development. For guidance on proper footwear for an active toddler, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can help you to choose the right shoes for your child.
The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact one of our podiatrists of Foothill Podiatry Clinic. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Grass Valley, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Sinus tarsi syndrome causes pain and discomfort in a small space on the outside of the ankle called the sinus tarsi. This area is located between the ankle and heel bones and contains important ligaments and soft tissues that help support ankle stability. Sinus tarsi syndrome often develops after an ankle sprain or repeated stress that affects the structures within this space. Symptoms may include pain on the outer ankle, tenderness, and a feeling of instability. Discomfort may become worse when walking on uneven surfaces, standing, or participating in physical activity.
Several factors can contribute to sinus tarsi syndrome. A previous ankle sprain may damage or stretch supporting ligaments and create ongoing instability. Flat feet can also change how the foot and ankle move, increasing stress around the sinus tarsi. Repetitive activities that involve running, jumping, or uneven terrain may further irritate the area. Risk factors include previous ankle injuries, unstable ankles, and activities that place repeated stress on the lower extremities. Some people develop symptoms gradually, while others notice pain after a specific injury.
A podiatrist can evaluate the ankle and determine whether sinus tarsi syndrome is causing the symptoms. The examination may include reviewing injury history, checking tenderness, and assessing ankle stability. Imaging tests may be recommended when a more detailed evaluation is needed. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include activity modification and supportive footwear. Other measures designed to improve stability and reduce irritation may be suggested.
Persistent outer ankle pain should not be ignored, especially when it affects balance or confidence while walking. Addressing the underlying mechanical problem can help reduce stress on the sinus tarsi and support more comfortable movement. If you have symptoms of sinus tarsi syndrome or consistent pain on the outside of your ankle, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.
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 podiatrists from Foothill Podiatry Clinic. 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:
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 Grass Valley, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Diabetic foot ulcers are open sores that develop most often on the bottom of the foot. Diabetes can damage nerves, which reduces the ability to feel pain, heat, or pressure. A small cut or blister can then go unnoticed and become a deeper wound. Diabetes can also reduce blood flow, which slows healing and makes infection harder to fight. Warning signs include drainage, redness, and swelling. An unpleasant odor or darkened tissue can also signal a serious problem. Because pain may be absent, every wound deserves prompt medical attention.
Several factors raise the risk of developing an ulcer. Shoes that rub or fit poorly can create repeated pressure on one area. Calluses and changes in foot shape can also concentrate pressure against the skin. Poor circulation makes the skin more vulnerable and limits the body’s ability to repair damage. An untreated ulcer can spread beneath the skin and reach muscles or bones. Infection can then become severe and threaten the health of the foot. Early evaluation helps reduce the risk of tissue loss, hospitalization, and loss of limb.
A podiatrist can examine the wound, measure its depth, and check for signs of infection. The evaluation also includes testing sensation and blood flow in the feet. X-rays or other imaging tests can reveal whether the wound has reached the bone. Treatment focuses on removing damaged tissue, protecting the wound, and reducing pressure on the affected area. A podiatrist can apply specialized dressings and provide an off-loading device, which shifts weight away from the sore. Regular podiatric visits can identify pressure points before another ulcer forms. Surgery may be recommended for severe infection, dead tissue, or a foot deformity that prevents healing. If you have diabetes and have developed a foot ulcer, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition.
Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Foothill Podiatry Clinic. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.
The Importance of Caring for Your Feet
Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.
It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Grass Valley, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
An ankle sprain happens when the strong bands of tissue that help hold the ankle together are stretched or torn. This can happen when the foot twists, rolls, or turns in an unusual direction. Ankle sprains can occur while playing sports, walking on uneven ground, or stepping awkwardly. Pain, swelling, and difficulty putting weight on the foot can develop after an injury. The severity depends on how much the supporting tissue has been damaged. A mild sprain can cause stretching, while a more serious sprain can involve a partial or complete tear. A podiatrist can examine the ankle and determine the severity of the injury.
A podiatrist can check the ankle’s movement, stability, and areas of tenderness. This examination helps determine whether the injury is a sprain or another problem, like a broken bone. Treatment depends on the severity of the sprain and how the ankle is functioning. Care can include protecting the injured ankle, supporting the joint, and using a structured plan to restore movement and strength. A podiatrist can also evaluate how the foot and ankle work together while walking. This can help identify problems that could affect recovery or increase stress on the ankle. More serious sprains require closer monitoring because the ankle can remain weak or unstable after the initial injury.
Some ankle sprains cause significant swelling, severe pain, or difficulty putting weight on the foot. A podiatrist can determine whether imaging is appropriate when a fracture or another injury is suspected. Severe sprains can sometimes require a brace or other support while the ankle heals. Returning to sports too quickly can place stress on an ankle that has not fully recovered. A podiatrist can help guide the recovery process and determine when the ankle is ready for increased activity. If you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.
Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact one of our podiatrists from Foothill Podiatry Clinic. 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?
Preventing a Sprain
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 Grass Valley, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
