January 2018

If you have fallen and are experiencing severe pain, swelling, or difficulty in moving your foot, you may have a broken ankle. It may be challenging to differentiate between a break and a sprain; therefore, an X-ray is often taken for a proper diagnosis. Keeping the leg elevated will help with the swelling that occurs, and limiting weight on the affected ankle will aid in alleviating the discomfort associated with this painful injury. If a minor fracture is incurred, wearing a supportive boot or splint may be recommended, as well as using crutches to keep the weight off the ankle. For a more serious fracture, surgery may be suggested to realign the bones, and a cast will be fitted to promote proper healing. It generally takes 6-12 weeks for improvement to occur, but this time frame will vary from patient to patient. If you suspect that your ankle may be broken or sprained, see a podiatrist immediately.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Harold Sterling from Michigan. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
•  Swelling around the area
•  Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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

A broken foot typically occurs from a fall or repeated activities that put stress on the foot. If your child complains of pain, swelling, and bruising, the chances are high that the foot is broken. To properly diagnose this condition, an x-ray, CAT scan, or MRI is typically taken, depending on the severity of the break. Once the broken foot is confirmed, treatment may consist of wearing a cast, which restricts movement in the leg and therefore allows healing to occur. Additional treatment suggestions include resting and elevating the foot by utilizing pillows. This may be beneficial in reducing any swelling that’s present. Obtaining a tetanus shot may be considered if the skin on the foot has cuts from the injury. A podiatrist is trained to handle a broken foot and should be contacted immediately if you suspect your child has suffered one.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Harold Sterling from Michigan. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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

There are many types of heel pain, some of which are gradually felt, and some that are acute, typically caused by an injury. If pain under the heel is experienced, it may be a common condition referred to as plantar fasciitis. The pain is generally worse in the morning and may travel further down the foot. Having a bruised heel will begin as gradual pain occurring over a period of time, often affecting athletes due to the overuse of the plantar fascia tendon. Sever’s disease is characterized by pain in the back of the heel, often felt by young athletes. Swollen heels are another cause of heel pain and may be indicative of Achilles bursitis. A fracture may be possible if a fall was involved, often causing severe pain and making it difficult to walk. A consultation with a podiatrist is recommended if swelling, pain, or a "pins and needles" sensation is experienced in or around your feet.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Dr. Harold Sterling of Michigan. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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

Falls among people aged 65 or older can be extremely serious and are considered a leading cause of injuries in that age group. A fall can be hard in lots of ways, and people may become depressed after experiencing one. This can result in lacking the desire to stay active. There are several things to be aware of in the aging person, including their vision becoming weaker, causing objects to become harder to see; this may possibly lead to a fall. Some medications may cause dizziness and dehydration, which may also be responsible for a fall occurring. It may be beneficial to ask older people when their last eye exam was and to ensure that their eyeglass prescription is current. Discussing medications currently being taken may be advised to identify any potential drug interactions; drug interactions can possibly cause an imbalance and contribute to a potential fall. Typically, checking the lighting in the home, in addition to having secure rails on the stairway and installing bars in the tub area, may all be effective ways in preventing falls in the home.

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. Harold Sterling from Michigan. 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 Lansing, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Additional fluid developing in the body due to pregnancy is often the cause of swollen feet and ankles. Although it’s generally not harmful, it is typically uncomfortable, especially during warmer weather. There are several ways to ease the swelling, which may include wearing shoes that are comfortable, resting, elevating the feet, and doing your best to eliminate long periods of standing. Performing foot exercises may also be beneficial in reducing swelling and preventing cramps. Some of these may include pointing, flexing, and rotating your foot several times, thus promoting improved circulation. Occasionally, swelling in the feet may be a symptom of more serious conditions. If you have swelling in your feet, make sure to see a doctor.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Dr. Harold Sterling from Michigan. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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