A common injury many people have had once in their life is a sprained ankle caused by a simple twist of the foot. This may stretch or tear the ligaments that hold the bones of the lower leg to the bones of the foot. Blood vessels and nerves surrounding the ankle may also be damaged. A common ankle sprain is painful and may inhibit simple activities such as walking. Rest, cold compress and over-the-counter pain medicine may suffice to heal the ankle over time.

A serious sprain may cause the area to feel warm and have extensive swelling and tenderness. Then it is time to seek medical attention. A doctor will check for damage in the Achilles tendon and a possible fracture. A brace or cast may be used to limit mobilization of the ankle joint. Ice is generally recommended to control pain and promote healing. Crutches are also used if the doctor feels limited weight bearing is necessary. Specific exercises or physical therapy may aid strengthening the ankle after it has healed.

The ankle pain may not be caused by a sprain. Weight applied to a hard-landing foot can cause a stress fracture or broken bone. A stress fracture is a small break in the outer surface of the bone. Treatment generally includes rest, limited weight and time to heal. Without treatment, a stress fracture continues to grow developing a more serious fracture. A complete fracture is an injury that requires proper setting of the bone into alignment. Without setting the bone, the bones of the joint may rub leading to degradation of the cartilage padding protecting the bones. Over time the cartilage can tear or wear away completely causing pain and arthritis.

Injury to the ankle tendons may be the result of pain caused from a continuous motion or a sudden impact on the ankle. It is also the most difficult to diagnose since symptoms are similar to a sprained ankle and generally determined with an advanced imaging machine. Treatment is similar to a sprain including rest, ice and immobilization if necessary.

The ankle is an important joint area that carries the full weight of the body. Most injuries are resolved with rest, ice and over-the-counter inflammatory or pain medicines. Shoes with proper support can aid in ankle injury prevention. But, for serious ankle pain, it is best to consult a physician.

Dr. Robert Neufeld, DPM is a board certified podiatrist with over 20 years experience in the field of podiatry. His extensive knowledge of conditions in the foot and ankle allow him to provide patients with the highest level of care. He is not only qualified to diagnose and treat foot conditions and ankle pain, but also maintains podiatric medical and surgical privileges at Union Hospital, Overlook Hospital, and the Center for Ambulatory Surgery. Dr. Neufeld’s practice specializes in the treatment of foot and ankle pain, and can treat several foot conditions including bunions, Morton’s neuroma, ingrown toenails, plantar fasciitis, and more.

Taking good care of your feet is important to your overall health, especially for those with diabetes. It is recommended that diabetics and even other patients schedule annual visits to a podiatrist in order to be sure that your feet are healthy. Dr. Neufeld and his staff are both friendly and accommodating, and will provide top quality care for all types of foot and ankle pain or conditions. His offices are located in Union, New Jersey and have various patient hours so that it is hassle free to come in for a visit regardless of your schedule. Make sure that you are taking all the necessary steps to ensure your overall health by also taking good care of your feet and visiting a podiatrist at the first sign of trouble.

Author Bio: Dr. Robert Neufeld, DPM is a board-certified podiatrist specializing in the treatment of foot and ankle pain. Dr. Neufeld started a private practice in 1983, & became a professional member of prestigious organizations such as the New Jersey Podiatric Medical Society.http://www.robertneufeld.com

Category: Medicines and Remedies
Keywords: ankle pain,foot pain,sprain,ankle sprain,podiatrist,podiatry,foot doctor,ankle tendons,ligament torn