An ankle sprain is one of the most common sports and activity-related injuries. It happens when the ligaments that support the ankle stretch or tear after the foot twists or rolls. Most sprains heal with rest and proper care, but some people develop ongoing nerve-related pain during recovery. This type of discomfort is called neuropathic pain. It may feel like burning, tingling, numbness, or sharp, electric-like sensations around the ankle or foot. The pain may continue even after swelling improves and normal movement returns. Nerve irritation can occur when nearby tissues remain inflamed or when swelling places pressure on small nerves around the ankle joint. Early evaluation can help identify the cause and guide treatment. Targeted exercises, supportive bracing, and other medical treatments may be helpful. If nerve-like pain develops after an ankle sprain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Jason Bell, DPM from Advantage Foot and Ankle Center . 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 Newark, DE . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle arthrodesis, commonly known as ankle fusion, is a surgical procedure used to relieve severe, persistent ankle pain that has not improved with other treatments. The goal is to join the bones of the ankle so they heal as one solid unit, eliminating the painful motion caused by advanced arthritis, major injury, or long-standing joint damage. When the joint is fused, the ankle becomes stable and able to bear weight more comfortably, even though movement in the fused area is no longer present. Many people find that walking becomes easier once the constant grinding pain is gone. The procedure requires careful preparation and a structured recovery plan that supports proper bone healing. Over time, surrounding joints adapt, allowing patients to return to many of their usual activities. If you are dealing with unrelenting ankle pain that limits daily life, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist to determine whether ankle arthrodesis is an appropriate option for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Jason Bell, DPM of Advantage Foot and Ankle Center . Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Swollen feet can develop gradually or appear suddenly, and they often indicate that fluid is building up in the tissues. This condition, known as edema, may result from standing for long periods, hot weather, pregnancy, or wearing tight shoes. Injury, infection, and inflammation can also cause one foot to swell. In some cases, swelling in both feet may be linked to circulation problems, vein disorders, heart conditions, or kidney concerns. The skin may look stretched or shiny, and pressing on the area can leave a temporary indentation. Swelling may feel tight, heavy, or uncomfortable, especially at the end of the day. A podiatrist begins with a careful examination to determine whether the cause is local, such as tendon or joint inflammation, or related to a broader medical issue. Treatment depends on the source and may include supportive footwear, compression, elevation, and targeted exercises. If you have swollen feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for proper evaluation and care.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Jason Bell, DPM of Advantage Foot and Ankle Center . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

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

The right pair of running shoes can make every step feel easier, lighter, and more stable. Since feet vary widely in shape, flexibility, and arch height, the shoe that works for someone else may not be the best match for you. A good fit begins with understanding how your foot moves. Some runners roll inward, others outward, and many stay fairly centered, and each pattern benefits from different levels of support. Cushioning also matters because it absorbs repetitive impact and helps protect the heel and forefoot during longer distances. Trying on shoes later in the day, when your feet are slightly larger, often leads to a more accurate fit. There should be enough room in the toe box for natural movement without slipping at the heel. If you are dealing with discomfort, recurring injuries, or unsure of which type of shoe can keep you comfortable and efficient, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for expert guidance.

For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with Jason Bell, DPM from Advantage Foot and Ankle Center . Our doctor can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.

Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes

There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.

You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.

Differences

Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.

Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.

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