Although ankle injuries are common, distinguishing between a sprain and a fracture can be challenging. An ankle sprain occurs when ligaments are stretched or torn, typically due to twisting or rolling the ankle. Symptoms include swelling, bruising, and pain, particularly when bearing weight. In contrast, an ankle fracture involves a break in the bone and often causes severe pain, swelling, and an inability to move the ankle. For sprains, mild pain relievers and gentle stretching may aid recovery. Fractures, however, often require more intensive treatment, such as immobilization in a cast or even surgery, depending on the severity. If you are unsure whether you have a sprain or a fracture, or if pain persists, it is important to consult a podiatrist. This type of doctor can provide an accurate diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan to ensure a proper recovery and prevent future injuries.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Joan Oloff, DPM from Los Gatos Foot and Ankle . 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 Los Gatos, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Toe cramps can be an uncomfortable and bothersome issue, often arising from several underlying causes. Tight muscles are a frequent culprit, as prolonged or intense activity can lead to muscle spasms in the toes. Damaged nerves, possibly due to conditions like neuropathy, can also contribute to cramping by disrupting normal nerve function. Wearing poor fitting shoes can worsen the problem by compressing or pinching the toes, restricting circulation and causing cramps. Additionally, a lack of exercise or stretching can lead to weakened and inflexible muscles, making them more prone to cramping. If you have toe cramps, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer effective relief and treatment methods.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Joan Oloff, DPM of Los Gatos Foot and Ankle . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Los Gatos, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Heel spurs are bony protrusions that form on the heel bone, or calcaneus. The two primary types are plantar and dorsal heel spurs. Plantar heel spurs develop on the bottom of the heel, where the plantar fascia attaches to the bone, often causing pain in the arch or heel. Dorsal heel spurs form on the back of the heel and can lead to discomfort in the Achilles tendon area. Common symptoms include sharp or aching pain, particularly with movement or pressure. The primary causes of heel spurs are repetitive strain, improper footwear, or conditions such as plantar fasciitis. Overuse or excessive stress can trigger inflammation and heel spur formation. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Joan Oloff, DPM from Los Gatos Foot and Ankle . Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Los Gatos, CA . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.