Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

Ankle sprains are a common ailment people may experience at one point in their life. Each foot consists of twenty-six bones, and three of these bones are located in the ankle joint. They are connected by numerous ligaments, and if they should become torn or overstretched, it may result in a sprained ankle. Common symptoms of this condition may consist of bruising and swelling, and it is often difficult to move the ankle. The ankle joint becomes unstable, and walking on the affected foot may cause severe pain and discomfort. The healing process often begins with elevating the foot, as this may reduce a portion of the swelling. Relief may be found when the sprained ankle is wrapped with an elastic bandage, which helps to limit mobility and provide the necessary stability as it heals. If you have sprained your ankle, please speak with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can determine its severity, and guide you toward correct treatment choices.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Arbor - Ypsi Foot & Ankle Centers. 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 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 Ann Arbor, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Hammertoe occurs when the ligaments and tendons in the middle joint of toes tighten up and force the toes to curl downwards. This can normally happen in any toe except the big toe. The hammertoe can often become uncomfortable if it rubs against the shoe. There are two types od hammertoes which are categorized by the affected toe’s mobility. Flexible hammertoes can be straightened out manually. However, a rigid hammertoe can not be manually straightened out, and its movement can be very limited and painful. Those who are suffering from hammertoes should make sure to wear shoes with a high and wide toe box that allows for enough space for the toes. If your hammertoes persist, make sure to consult with a podiatrist for treatment options since surgery may be necessary.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Arbor - Ypsi Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Ann Arbor, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Parents who notice an area on their children’s foot that resembles a bubble are often aware that it may be a blister. A blister is the body’s natural healing response to skin that has become damaged for various reasons. These can include excess friction that can happen from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, or from medical conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. Additionally, blisters may form as an allergic reaction to an insect bite or from a severe sunburn. It is beneficial to cover the blister with an elastic bandage, as this can protect the blister from draining prematurely. If your child has developed blisters on their feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can guide you toward proper treatment techniques.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of Arbor - Ypsi Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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