Ankle sprains are considered to be a common injury to the lower leg. They can happen when the ankle suddenly twists, or lands on the ground in an unnatural way. This can occur while participating in sporting activities, or from unexpectedly stepping off of a curb. The symptoms that are commonly associated with this type of injury include severe pain and discomfort, swelling, and it is generally difficult to walk. Relief can be found when the affected foot is elevated, and this may help to diminish a portion of the swelling. A proper diagnosis typically consists of having an X-ray performed, and this is advantageous in eliminating the possibility of a fracture. An effective treatment technique can consist of wrapping the ankle in a bandage, which is often helpful in providing the support that is needed for healing. If you have sprained your ankle, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you to properly heal.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Kendall Blackwell from InStride Wilson Podiatry Associates. 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 Wilson, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Research has indicated that individuals who are sixty-five years or older commonly fall, which can result in physical injuries. If falling has occurred, elderly people may become fearful of performing daily activities. This can lead to becoming inactive, and depression may occur. There are methods that can be implemented which may help to diminish the risk of falling. These can include having regular vision tests performed, and modifying the home environment by installing grab bars in the bathroom area. Additionally, it is beneficial to remove existing rugs that are loose, and it is helpful to have medications reviewed. If you would like additional information about how falling can affect the feet, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist.

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. Kendall Blackwell from InStride Wilson Podiatry Associates. 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 our office located in Wilson, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The Achilles tendon is known to be the largest tendon in the body. It connects the calf muscles to the heel, and it enables us to walk and perform running and jumping activities. Tendonitis may develop as a result of gradual damage that can stem from overuse. Patients who experience this type of injury typically have pain and discomfort in their calf and heel area. Additionally, it may be difficult to flex the foot, and there can be tenderness upon arising in the morning. Many patients may find relief by performing certain stretches that can strengthen the calf muscles. It may also be beneficial to wear orthotics as they can help heal an Achilles tendon injury. After a proper diagnosis is performed, which typically consists of having and MRI or X-ray taken, the correct treatment methods can begin. If you have endured this type of injury, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can offer you the best treatment options.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Kendall Blackwell of InStride Wilson Podiatry Associates. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Wilson, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

You have flat feet when the entire soles of your feet can touch the floor when you stand up. It is a very common and usually painless condition that occurs when the arches do not develop during childhood. It can also happen after an injury or from the stress brought upon by age. The majority of people that have flat feet will not show any signs or symptoms. Occasionally foot pain can surface in the heel or arch area. Flat feet is most common in infants and toddlers as the arches of their feet have yet to develop at this age. Most arches will develop throughout childhood, but there are some that will never develop them. Factors that can increase your risk of flat feet include obesity, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, injury to the foot or ankle and aging. If you are experiencing pain as a result of flat feet, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Kendall Blackwell from InStride Wilson Podiatry Associates. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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