Items filtered by date: January 2025

Sudden ankle pain without a clear injury can be caused by several underlying conditions. Gout is one of the most common causes, characterized by sudden, intense pain, often in the joint of the big toe, but it can also affect the ankle. This condition occurs when uric acid builds up in the body, forming crystals that cause inflammation and pain. Arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, can also lead to sudden ankle pain, as the joint becomes inflamed and worn down over time. Achilles tendinitis is another potential cause, resulting in pain and swelling in the tendon at the back of the ankle. This condition is often triggered by overuse or strain, even without a specific injury. Flat feet can also contribute to sudden ankle pain by placing additional stress on the joints, leading to discomfort and inflammation. If your ankle hurts without an obvious reason, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can determine what the reason is, and offer appropriate treatment solutions.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Tanisha Richmond, DPM from Richmond Foot & Ankle, LLC. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

Cracked heels, a common foot issue, are more frequently reported in women than men, possibly due to footwear choices or hormonal differences affecting skin elasticity. These dry, thickened skin fissures can develop from prolonged standing, wearing open-backed shoes, or exposure to dry environments. Other risk factors include obesity, aging, and medical conditions like diabetes or eczema, which impair skin health. Prevention starts with keeping feet moisturized and exfoliated to remove dead skin. Wearing supportive, closed-back shoes and using heel balms with urea or salicylic acid can help maintain skin hydration and elasticity. If cracks deepen or cause pain, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist. They can debride thickened skin, recommend prescription-strength treatments, and address underlying conditions contributing to the problem.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Tanisha Richmond, DPM from Richmond Foot & Ankle, LLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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

A broken pinky toe typically occurs due to trauma or injury, such as stubbing the toe on furniture, dropping something heavy on the foot, or participating in high-impact sports. The force from these events can cause the bone to crack or break. Symptoms of a broken pinky toe include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving the toe. In some cases, the toe may appear misaligned. Treatment for a broken pinky toe usually involves rest and elevation to reduce swelling. A buddy taping method, where the injured toe is taped to the adjacent toe for stability, may be used. In more severe cases, where the toe is significantly displaced, a podiatrist may need to realign the bones or, in rare cases, use a cast. If you have fractured your pinky toe, it is suggested that you contract a podiatrist who can offer you effective treatment remedies.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Tanisha Richmond, DPM from Richmond Foot & Ankle, LLC. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

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

Wearing orthotics can be a vital part of rehabilitating foot and ankle conditions by providing support and promoting proper alignment. Foot and ankle injuries, such as sprains, tendonitis, or fractures, often cause instability and pain that can hinder recovery. Custom-made orthotics help by redistributing pressure, improving the distribution of weight, and supporting the natural structure of the foot. This relief allows injured tissues to heal more effectively while preventing further strain. Orthotics can also correct imbalances, such as overpronation or high arches, which may have contributed to the injury in the first place. By improving foot mechanics and reducing discomfort, orthotics aid in regaining normal function and mobility. For those recovering from foot and ankle conditions, orthotics provide a non-invasive, long-term solution that can support rehabilitation and enhance recovery. If you have endured a foot or ankle injury, it is suggested that you promptly speak to a podiatrist who can offer orthotics as a treatment solution.

If you are experiencing discomfort in your feet and would like to try custom orthotics, contact Tanisha Richmond, DPM from Richmond Foot & Ankle, LLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Custom Orthotics?

Custom orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain. 

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Shoe inserts come in a wide variety and are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality, custom inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you're experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibility of using custom orthotics or shoe inserts. A podiatrist can determine which type of custom orthotic or shoe insert is right for you and help you take the first steps toward being pain-free.

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

A high ankle sprain is an injury to the ligaments that connect the tibia and fibula, the two bones in the lower leg, just above the ankle. Unlike a typical ankle sprain, which affects the ligaments surrounding the ankle joint, a high ankle sprain involves syndesmosis, the connective tissue between the two bones. This injury often occurs during activities that involve twisting or turning motions, such as running, football, or basketball, where the foot is planted, and the leg twists forcefully. Symptoms of a high ankle sprain include pain above the ankle, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected leg. The pain may worsen with movement or when the foot is rotated. If you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you promptly contact a podiatrist who can offer the best treatment for the type of ankle sprain it is.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Tanisha Richmond, DPM from Richmond Foot & Ankle, LLC. 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 Dayton, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.