A sprained ankle usually happens when the ankle rolls inward, leading to stretching or tearing of the ligaments on the outside of the foot. This injury can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight, although some people may still manage limited movement. Ankle sprains vary in severity, with mild cases involving minor ligament stretching, and severe cases leading to extensive tears, or ruptures, in the ankle's supporting ligaments. The risk of ankle sprains is higher in those individuals with previous sprains, high arches, or who participate in high-impact sports. Once the initial swelling subsides, certain exercises may be recommended to restore strength, balance, and range of motion, in an effort to prevent future injuries. A podiatrist can assess the severity of the injury, provide guidance on treatment options, and discuss options like bracing in severe cases. If you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a full exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Larry Slomowitz, DPM from California. 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 Westlake Village, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Nerve pain in the feet often leads to burning sensations, tingling, numbness, and weakness, which may worsen at night. It usually originates from issues that affect the nerves in the spine or along their course down the leg. For example, a herniated disc or spinal stenosis can compress nerves in the lower back, leading to radiating pain from the back or leg into the feet. Peripheral neuropathy, which involves nerve damage in the extremities, can be caused by diabetes, injuries, or prolonged alcohol consumption. In these cases, people may experience altered sensations, sharp pains, or foot drop, which affect mobility. A podiatrist can assess and identify the underlying cause of nerve pain in the feet by conducting a variety of diagnostic tests. This foot doctor can also provide treatment options specifically designed to relieve discomfort and restore foot function. If you are experiencing symptoms of nerve pain in the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for guidance.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Larry Slomowitz, DPM from California. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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

Flat feet can lead to discomfort and mobility issues, but specific exercises can help strengthen the muscles and improve arch support. One effective exercise is the short foot exercise. It involves consciously shortening the foot by pulling the arch upward while keeping the toes and heel grounded. Calf stretches are also beneficial, and by stretching the calves, you enhance flexibility and reduce tension in the lower legs. Heel raises are another excellent option, where you rise onto your toes and lower back down, helping to strengthen the calf muscles and support the arch. Toe yoga, which includes movements like spreading and curling the toes, can improve foot dexterity and promote overall foot health. There are some people who have pain and discomfort from flat feet. If this applies to you, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer additional relief techniques, and monitor your foot health.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Larry Slomowitz, DPM from California. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctor to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

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