Ankle sprains are a common injury. They involve possible joint damage resulting in swelling, instability and pain, to more severe damage, such as torn ligaments, bruised cartilage and broken bones. Immediate treatment includes rest, ice, compression and anti-inflammatories. Unfortunately, as many as 80% of untreated sprained ankles result in prolonged symptoms. These can include chronic pain or ankle instability, that makes a person prone to repetitive injury later in life and arthritic changes.

At Foxhall Podiatry Associates, our Podiatrists utilize the latest technology to determine if there is a fracture, dislocation or torn ligaments. If you've sprained your ankle or have a history of ankle sprains, early evaluation and aggressive treatment is the best way to avoid chronic pain, instability and arthritis of the involved joints. Book an appointment with Foxhall Podiatry Associates to be evaluated and to learn more about all of your treatment options.

Achilles Tendinitis and Tendon Injury

Achilles tendinitis is a medical condition that causes pain along the back of the leg near the heel. This happens when the Achilles tendon is constantly abused. This condition is common among athletes and middle age people who are actively engaged in sport activities. The Achilles tendon is a band of tissue that connects calf muscles at the back of the lower leg to your heel bone. It allows a person to extend the foot and point the toes to the floor. This is also the thickest, longest and strongest tendon of the body. Generally, tendons such as the Achilles tendon do not heal rapidly or completely. A lifestyle change is sometimes needed to prevent the recurrence of Achilles tendinitis. The goal in treating Achilles tendinitis is to relieve the pain and reduce the swelling.

Tendon Injury Treatment includes:

• Resting the leg

• Cold compression therapy

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication

• Shockwave Therapy For Pain

• Heel lift and using of a brace or cast to keep the heel and tendon still

• Physical therapy

Surgery may be needed if the symptoms do not improve. Our Foot Doctor will evaluate the severity of the condition and select the best procedure to repair the Achilles tendon. Make an appointment with Foxhall Podiatry Associates for a complete evaluation.

A broken bone is also known as a fracture. There is a common misconception that a broken bone is worse than a fracture. In reality they are the same. There are many different types of fractures or breaks. A bone can be broken and the fragments can be out of position. We call this a displaced fracture. Conversely, if they are in good alignment it's called a non-displaced fracture. If a bone is broken and you can barely see it on an x-ray, it is a hairline fracture. Finally, if a bone is broken and one of the fragments has punctured the skin, we call this an open or compound fracture. Since open fractures can easily become infected immediate surgical management is required.

Broken bones are usually splinted initially to prevent bone movement and further damage to the soft tissues that surround them. If the fracture is displaced it may need to be set. In certain fractures, setting them can be difficult. In these types of fractures, surgery is also indicated. This will provide the best opportunity for healing.

Even though all of this sounds very scary, most fractures can be managed in a cast without going to the OR. Even simple fractures of the toes respond very well to this treatment. And yes, we do put casts on toes. Not the plaster or fiberglass most people think of. Instead, we use a mesh tape which holds the toe in place.

If you, or someone you know has sustained an injury to the foot or ankle call us immediately. Foxhall Podiatry Associates will make every attempt to see you ASAP.