Foot Injury Treatment

The most common injuries to the foot are sprains and strains of the toes, foot, and ankle from overuse. Repeated pounding of the foot on a hard surface (as with running or jogging) can lead to an overuse injury.

A fracture is a broken bone. Symptoms can include pain, swelling, and bruising. A fracture can accompany a sprain and strain. Stable fractures are breaks in the bone that do not affect the shape of the bone (a stress fracture is a type of stable fracture)

An enlargement of the joint at the base of the big toe is called a bunion. Bunions may be caused by abnormal foot motion and can be worsened by shoes that squeeze the toes together (such as high-heeled shoes). Various types of surgery can be performed to treat bunions.

Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the heel and sole of the foot. It is caused when the long, flat ligament on the bottom of the foot stretches irregularly and develops small tears and inflammation. Pain is common with Plantar fasciitis, especially in the morning and when walking.

Turf toe is an irritation of the big toe joint and usually occurs when the toe is jammed against a hard surface or bent backward. Symptoms of turf toe include pain and swelling at the base of the toe.

Many times after surgery the foot will need to be stabilized while healing. In addition, it is important to help reduce swelling and pain. Cryotherapy, the application of cold, combined with compression helps to minimize swelling, and pain.

The diabetic foot requires special care and attention. Prevention and treatment of wounds and conditions by unloading and protecting the foot is essential.

Adult-acquired flatfoot or PTTD (Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction) is an inflammation and/or overstretching of the posterior tibial tendon that helps support the foot arch. With PTTD, the foot arch collapses. This condition is the most common type of flatfoot developed during adulthood and can be the result of overuse or change of activity.