An ankle sprain occurs when one or more ligaments in the ankle stretch or tear due to an unnatural twisting or rolling motion. This type of injury often happens during physical activities such as running, jumping, or even stepping on uneven ground. The ligaments, which normally provide stability by holding the ankle bones together, become damaged when they are forced beyond their normal range of motion. Common symptoms of an ankle sprain include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot. In more severe cases, you may notice instability in the joint or hear a popping sound at the time of injury. Risk factors for sprained ankles include previous ankle injuries, weak muscles, or participating in high-impact sports. A podiatrist plays a key role in diagnosing the severity of the sprain, recommending treatment, and helping you prevent future injuries by strengthening the ankle. If you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you make an immediate appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Michael Tomey, DPM from Cary Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor 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 Cary, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot pain can stem from various underlying issues, often linked to specific areas of the foot or ankle. One common cause of foot pain is Achilles tendinopathy, which involves inflammation or damage to the Achilles tendon, leading to pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the foot. Another issue is tibialis posterior dysfunction, where the tendon that connects the calf to the arch of the foot becomes inflamed, causing arch pain and flatfoot. Plantar fasciitis, a frequent cause, results from damage to the plantar fascia, leading to heel pain, especially after rest. Bursitis, caused by inflammation in fluid-filled sacs that cushion joints, can also lead to pain and swelling in the foot or ankle, often increased by wearing tight footwear. Changes in the arch, whether too high or too low, can affect foot posture and may lead to further complications, including tendon strain and joint pain. If you are experiencing foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Michael Tomey, DPM  from Cary Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Plantar warts are a common foot issue in children, caused by the human papillomavirus, abbreviated HPV. These warts typically appear on the soles of the feet and can be painful, especially when walking or standing. Children are more susceptible to plantar warts due to their active lifestyles and frequent exposure to public areas like swimming pools, locker rooms, and playgrounds, where the virus thrives in warm, moist environments. Plantar warts often look like small, rough growths with tiny black dots at the center. While they may go away on their own, treatment can speed up the healing process and relieve discomfort. Options can include, cryotherapy, freezing, or removal by a podiatrist. To prevent plantar warts, encourage kids to wear flip-flops in public areas and keep their feet clean and dry. If your child has a plantar wart, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Michael Tomey, DPM from Cary Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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

Preventing limb loss in diabetic patients is a significant health concern, as the majority of nontraumatic lower-limb amputations are linked to diabetic foot ulcers, or DFUs. The rise in diabetes-related amputations, especially among younger adults, underscores the importance of proactive care. Key factors that contribute to amputation can include poor glucose control, unmanaged peripheral neuropathy, and ineffective wound care. Early intervention by a podiatrist is essential to both identify and manage these risk factors. Regular foot assessments, proper wound care, and controlling blood sugar levels can significantly reduce the risk of amputation. Podiatrists play a vital role in these preventative strategies, by performing debridement, managing infections, and recommending appropriate dressings. These combined efforts can halt the progress of an ulcer and decrease the likelihood of an amputation. If you have diabetic foot problems that may lead to a loss of limbs, it is suggested that you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist for treatment and management options.

Diabetic Limb Salvage

Diabetic limb salvage can be an effective way in preventing the need for limb amputation. If you have a foot ulcer and diabetes, consult with Michael Tomey, DPM from Cary Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Diabetic Limb Salvage?

Diabetic limb salvage is the attempt of saving a limb, such as the foot, that has an infected ulcer, from amputation. Podiatrists also try to make sure that there is enough function in the foot after the salvage that it is still usable. Those with diabetes experience poor blood circulation, which prevents proper healing of an ulcer. If the ulcer is left uncheck, it could become infected, which could result in the need for amputation.

Diabetes is the number one cause of non-traumatic amputations in the United States. Amputation has been found to lead to higher mortality rates. This translates into higher healthcare costs, and a reduced quality of life and mobility for amputees. Podiatrists have attempted to increase the prevalence of limb salvage in an attempt to solve these issues.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Limb salvage teams have grown in recent years that utilize a number of different treatments to save the infected limb. This includes podiatrists that specialize in wound care, rehabilitation, orthotics, and surgery. Through a combination of these methods, limb salvage has been found to be an effective treatment for infected limbs, and as an alternative to amputation. Podiatrists will first evaluate the potential for limb salvage and determine if the limb can be saved or must be amputated. 

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