Items filtered by date: August 2022

Suffering from a broken ankle is an unfortunate reality that some individuals might have to face at some point in their lives. Broken, or fractured, ankles occur when a person twists or rolls their ankle joint, putting their weight on the ankle in an awkward way that leads to injury. Broken ankles can also occur after a heavy object is dropped on the ankle. If you have a broken ankle, you might experience a range of symptoms from pain and swelling at the affected joint to bruising and tenderness. In less serious instances, broken ankles may be treated with braces or casts. In more severe cases, broken ankles can be treated with surgical procedures. Recovery time for a broken ankle varies according to the specific case. Generally speaking, recovery can take anywhere from six to 12 weeks, and possibly longer. When individuals are recovering from this kind of injury, they typically can not put weight on their feet, and must therefore use a mobility device such as crutches. If you have a broken or fractured ankle, it is imperative that you contact a podiatrist who can help you address the problem.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. David Ungar from Personal Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
•  Swelling around the area
•  Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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

Diabetics have high blood sugar levels that can damage blood vessels and nerves in the legs and feet. Such damage can make it hard to feel pressure, pain, and temperature in the feet. Therefore, diabetics may not know they have a cut or sore on their foot or feel the effects of shoes that are not fitting properly. Diabetes can cause the toes to become crooked or curved under and this can impact the way one walks, leading to more pressure on the foot. The increased pressure can reduce blood flow to the feet which increases the risk of foot ulcers. Diabetics need to practice regular foot care to prevent serious problems such as an infection, gangrene, or even amputation. Regular foot care involves checking the feet daily for wounds, corns, or calluses as well as changes in skin texture, color, or temperature. Wash the feet each day with warm, soapy water and dry them, followed by applying a moisturizer. Finish by trimming the toenails straight across and wear well-fitting shoes with clean, dry socks. If you are diabetic it is suggested to have a professional foot exam once a year or whenever you notice a change in your feet. A podiatrist can monitor your feet over time as well as care for any problems that may arise.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Dr. David Ungar from Personal Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

People who have experienced the foot condition known as gout are often aware of the debilitating pain it can cause. Gout can develop as a result of excess uric acid in the bloodstream, and can be caused by eating foods that have high levels of purines. These foods include red meat, shellfish, and drinks that are made with large amounts of sugar. The pain from gout is often felt in the joints of the big toe, and additional symptoms include swelling and redness surrounding the affected joint. Some people may have a genetic history of developing gout, which may also occur in patients who are obese. A proper diagnosis can be performed when a small sample is taken from the joint and analyzed for crystals that can lodge there. Effective preventive measures include frequently practicing a gentle exercise routine, reducing the amount of alcohol consumed, and eating a healthy diet. If you have developed gout, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. David Ungar from Personal Foot Care. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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

Sound wave technology that is similar to Shockwave Lithotripsy—which has been used to break up kidney stones for decades—can also be very effective in treating plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is a painful inflammation of the plantar fascia tissue which spans the entire sole connecting the heel with the base of the toes. It is the most common cause of chronic heel pain. When the plantar fascia tissue becomes damaged from overuse the high-energy acoustic sound waves from Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) can stimulate healing in the tissue, while reducing inflammation and pain. If you have been suffering from heel pain, make an appointment with a podiatrist for an examination. If you are diagnosed with chronic plantar fasciitis, ask if you are a good candidate for Extracorporeal shock wave therapy. 

Shockwave therapy is a treatment commonly used to treat various injuries and conditions, particularly plantar fasciitis in the feet. To learn more, consult with Dr. David Ungar from Personal Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy is a new treatment option designed to treat bone conditions such as tennis elbow, shoulder pain, and others. Shockwave therapy uses high intensity sound waves that are directed to the affected tissues of the body with pinpoint accuracy. The effects are very beneficial, leading to a production of collagen fibers, eliminating inflammation.

Who Benefits from Shockwave?

Shockwave is recommended for patients suffering from heel pain and associated problems. Heel pain is a common condition which can be caused by obesity, overexertion, and spending a substantial amount of time on hard floors with your feet exposed and unsupported.

Fast and Easy

The therapy is actually a simple process that can leave patients feeling better the very next day. Shockwave therapy is not as dramatic as it sounds. It enables more blood flow to effected areas, addressing the source of the problem and allowing treatment to last for a long time.

Treatment & Recovery Time

Shockwave treatment will enable your feet to recover quickly. This is especially important since surgery is not required. It is cost effective and does not require the use of anesthesia. This treatment is a better option to surgery, since it is proven safe.

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

It can be difficult to determine whether an ankle injury is a sprain or a strain, because the symptoms are similar. Common to both strains and sprains are ankle pain, swelling, and instability. However, differences in the location of the pain and its side effects can help to  indicate whether a muscle or a ligament is the cause. A strain occurs when the muscles and/or tendons in the ankle joint are stretched or torn, usually as a result of overuse. In a sprain, however, the ligaments in the affected area are torn or stretched beyond their normal range of motion. With a sprain, intense pain followed by swelling will be experienced at the site of the injury. A popping sound is likely to be heard. Bruising at the site may also occur, and there is likely to be a decrease in mobility. With a strain, the pain may be acute or appear gradually. Muscle cramps, spasms, and general weakness are common. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is wise to consult a podiatrist for a complete exam and diagnosis because ignoring the condition could lead to chronic ankle problems.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Dr. David Ungar from Personal Foot Care. 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 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 Farmington, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.