High-ankle sprains affect the joint above the ankle where the lower leg bones meet and often occur during twisting injuries or sudden changes in direction. Unlike typical ankle sprains, pain is usually felt in the front of the ankle and may extend upward along the lower leg. Swelling may be mild at first, but discomfort often increases with walking, especially during push-off or rotation. People may notice stiffness, weakness, or a sense of ankle instability with movement, while bruising often appears later. Because high ankle sprains involve key stabilizing structures, recovery may take longer if the injury is not correctly identified. A podiatrist can perform an exam and request imaging to determine severity of the high-ankle sprain. Then a plan to protect the joint and restore movement can be formulated. If you have pain in the front of the ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact one of our podiatrists from VIP Foot & Ankle Center. 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 are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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

Bunions often develop gradually, starting as a small bump at the base of the big toe and slowly changing the shape of the foot. The bunion looks like a bony prominence forming as the toe pushes inward, and it may appear red or swollen. It can feel tender, stiff, or painful, especially when wearing tight shoes or walking long distances. Common causes include inherited foot structure, arthritis, and footwear that crowds the toes. A podiatrist begins with a careful exam and imaging when needed to confirm the diagnosis and assess joint alignment. Treatment may involve custom orthotics to improve support, padding, or shoe modifications to reduce pressure, and targeted exercises to maintain flexibility. In more advanced cases, surgical options may be discussed. Early care can slow progression and improve comfort. If you have a bunion, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact one of our podiatrists of VIP Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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

Winter sports offer excitement and exercise, but cold weather increases the risk of foot and ankle injuries. Cold temperatures can reduce muscle flexibility, slow reaction time, and decrease circulation, making ankles more prone to twists, sprains, and strains. Skiing often leads to injuries from falls, improper technique, or equipment that does not provide adequate support. Additionally, ice skating can cause foot and ankle pain if skates do not fit correctly, as tight or loose skates can alter balance and increase pressure on joints. A podiatrist can evaluate injuries, provide proper treatment, recommend supportive footwear or orthotics, and offer guidance on injury prevention techniques. If you participate in winter sports and have sustained a foot or ankle injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who offers effective treatment and prevention tips.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with one of our podiatrists from VIP Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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

A broken ankle happens when one or more of the bones that form the ankle joint crack or fully break, often from a twist, fall, or sudden impact. Symptoms include sharp pain, swelling that appears quickly, bruising, and difficulty putting weight on the foot. Some people notice a popping sound at the moment of injury or see that the ankle looks out of place. Because the ankle supports the entire body during walking, even a small fracture can make movement painful and unsteady. Treatment depends on the type of break and may include immobilization, protective boots, or casting to keep the bones stable as they heal. Severe fractures can require surgery to restore proper alignment. A podiatrist can evaluate the injury, order imaging, and guide a safe recovery plan. If your ankle pain began after trauma or you cannot bear weight, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions.

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