Ankle pain can make standing, walking, and climbing stairs difficult. The discomfort can develop after an injury, like tripping or rolling the ankle. It can also appear when an existing ankle problem becomes irritated or when muscles surrounding the joint are weak. The ankle contains soft tissues, including ligaments and tendons, that can become injured. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and stiffness. Some people also develop a limp because putting weight on the ankle feels uncomfortable. Pain can spread into the nearby calf or foot, making everyday movement more challenging.

Ankle problems can affect movement and strength, especially after a sprain or other soft-tissue injury. A sprain happens when ankle ligaments are stretched too far and tear. Depending on the injury, the damage can range from a small tear to a complete rupture. An ankle that is misshapen or difficult to bear weight on can signal a more serious problem. Significant swelling, redness, or heat around the ankle also deserves prompt attention. Returning to normal movement safely is important because ankle strength and joint stability support balance. A podiatrist can determine which structures are contributing to the pain.

A podiatrist can examine the ankle, review how the injury happened, and assess the patient's walking pattern. The evaluation can also identify limited joint movement or weakness that places extra strain on the ankle. Treatment can focus on restoring comfortable motion, improving stability, and supporting proper foot mechanics. A podiatrist can recommend supportive devices when appropriate, and guide a safe return to normal activities. Addressing ankle pain can help reduce problems with walking and lower the chance of repeated injury. Persistent or worsening symptoms should be evaluated rather than ignored. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Ali Davis, DPM from The Foot Clinic. Our doctor 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 tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• 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 Overland Park, KS . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A broken toe can happen after a heavy object lands on the foot, the toe strikes a hard surface, or the foot twists during sports. Repeated pressure can also cause a stress fracture. Pain usually starts near the injured bone and can worsen while standing or walking. Other signs include swelling, bruising, and tenderness. The toe can look bent when the broken ends have shifted. A cut, bleeding around the nail, or bone showing through the skin needs prompt medical attention. The big toe plays an important role in balance and push-off, so an injury there can strongly affect movement.

It can be hard to tell a toe fracture from a sprain based on appearance alone. A podiatrist will ask how the injury happened and examine the toe for pain, position, and skin damage. This foot doctor can also check blood flow and numbness. X-rays can show where the bone broke and whether the pieces remain lined up. More detailed imaging is sometimes useful when the break is hard to see or extends into a joint. An accurate diagnosis matters because a poorly aligned bone can lead to stiffness, pain, or trouble fitting into shoes.

Treatment depends on the toe involved, the break's location, and how far the bone has moved. A podiatrist can stabilize a simple fracture by securing the injured toe to the toe beside it. The doctor can also provide a stiff-soled shoe or walking boot to limit painful motion and offer protection. When bone fragments are out of line, the podiatrist can return them to the proper position. Serious open, crushed, or joint-related fractures may require surgery. Seek prompt care after treatment when pain is severe, the toe appears crooked, or numbness develops. If you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective treatment tips.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Ali Davis, DPM from The Foot Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that causes one or more toes to bend downward at the middle joint, creating a curled or claw-like appearance. This condition most often affects the second, third, or fourth toes and develops when the muscles, tendons, and ligaments surrounding the toe become unbalanced. A tendon imbalance can pull the toe joint out of its normal position, causing misalignment of the joint surfaces and gradual changes in toe structure. While hammertoe may begin as a flexible deformity, it can become rigid over time and lead to ongoing discomfort.

Symptoms of hammertoe can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Many people experience pain while wearing shoes because the bent toe rubs against the inside of footwear, creating pressure points. Additional symptoms include swelling, redness, and difficulty moving the affected toe. As the toe becomes more fixed, finding comfortable shoes may become increasingly challenging.

Several factors can increase the risk of developing hammertoe. Wearing tight-fitting shoes, narrow toe-box footwear, or high heels can place excessive pressure on the toes and contribute to deformity. Foot structure, genetics, and muscle imbalance, may also increase the likelihood of developing this condition. Previous toe injuries can also be a factor. Certain medical conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, can affect the joints and contribute to toe misalignment. Injuries that damage the muscles, tendons, or ligaments of the foot may also interfere with normal toe movement and alignment.

A podiatrist can evaluate hammertoe by examining the foot, reviewing symptoms, and determining whether the deformity is flexible or rigid. Treatment options include footwear changes, padding, and stretching exercises. Custom orthotics and other conservative approaches are designed to reduce pressure and improve foot function. More advanced cases may require surgery to restore proper toe alignment and relieve pain. If you have developed hammertoe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Ali Davis, DPM of The Foot Clinic. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

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

Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments that support the ankle are stretched or torn. This typically happens during sudden twisting movements, awkward landings, or uneven surfaces. While many ankle sprains heal with proper care, some cases may involve nerve damage, which can lead to more complex symptoms. Understanding the definition and causes of ankle sprains, along with the potential for nerve involvement, is important for early recognition and effective treatment.

Symptoms of a typical ankle sprain include pain, swelling, bruising, and limited movement. However, when nerve damage is present, additional signs may appear. These include radiating pain that travels beyond the ankle, altered skin sensation such as tingling or numbness, and unusual sensitivity to touch. In more severe cases, individuals may experience foot drop, which makes it difficult to lift the front part of the foot. Loss of muscle size can also occur if nerve signals are disrupted. These symptoms require careful attention, as they may indicate a more serious condition.

Risk factors for ankle sprains include participation in sports, walking on uneven terrain, and wearing improper footwear. Repeated sprains can increase the likelihood of nerve irritation or damage. High-impact activities and poor balance may also contribute to injury. When the ankle is unstable, nearby nerves may become compressed or stretched, leading to ongoing symptoms. Recognizing these risk factors can help individuals take preventive measures and reduce the chance of complications.

Proper care and early evaluation are essential for managing ankle injuries and preventing long-term effects. Rest, support, and gradual rehabilitation can help restore strength and stability. If signs of nerve damage are present, specialized treatment may be needed to protect function and mobility. If you suspect nerve damage from an ankle sprain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Ali Davis, DPM from The Foot Clinic. 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 Overland Park, KS . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.