Ankle injuries are common, and it can be difficult to tell the difference between a sprain and a break. A sprained ankle occurs when the ligaments are stretched or torn, often from twisting or rolling the foot during sports or walking on uneven ground. A broken ankle, or fracture, happens when one or more bones in the ankle joint break, usually from a fall, direct impact, or severe twisting injury. Symptoms of both include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. However, a break may cause more intense pain, visible deformity, or an inability to bear weight at all. The area might feel tender to the touch and appear misshapen or unstable. A podiatrist can perform a physical exam, take X-rays, and determine whether the injury is a sprain or fracture. Treatment may involve rest, bracing, targeted exercises, or, in some cases, surgery. If you have injured your ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment solutions.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Kent DiNucci, DPM from Ankle and Foot Clinic . 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 Omaha, NE . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A bruised heel bone can occur suddenly due to a fall, jumping, or stepping on a sharp object. This type of injury also can develop gradually from repeated impact on hard surfaces or stiff shoes. Risk factors for a bruised heel include advancing age, obesity, and endurance running. A history of cortisone shots, conditions like diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, and previous heel injuries or surgery are other possibilities. Healing time for a bruised heel bone depends on the severity of the injury and level of activity. If the injury is sudden and severe or if pain persists, it is important to consult a podiatrist, as they may recommend imaging to rule out fractures or soft tissue damage. This type of doctor can prescribe custom orthotics or, in some cases, surgery. If you have symptoms of a bruised heel bone, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment options.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Kent DiNucci, DPM of Ankle and Foot Clinic . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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

Gout is caused by a buildup of uric acid in the blood, which forms sharp crystals in the joints and leads to sudden pain, swelling, redness, and warmth. Flare-ups of gout often take place in the big toe. They can make walking difficult and may occur repeatedly, causing damage to joints in the feet and ankles, if left untreated. A podiatrist can diagnose gout by examining the affected area and using imaging or lab tests to rule out other problems, like fractures or other types of arthritis. Gout in the feet can lead to long-term joint damage, tissue changes and deformities. Management of gout includes medication to reduce inflammation and guidance on preventing further flare-ups. A podiatrist can also assess footwear and biomechanics to reduce pressure on affected joints and help preserve foot function.  If you have frequent toe or ankle pain caused by gout, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist for management of this painful condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Kent DiNucci, DPM from Ankle and Foot Clinic . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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

It is common to experience occasional swelling in your feet and ankles, especially after standing or walking for long periods of time. Often, this swelling results from fluid retention and resolves with rest and elevation. However, persistent or sudden swelling may signal a more serious concern. When swelling is accompanied by pain, redness, warmth, or difficulty walking, it could indicate a medical condition requiring prompt care. Blood clots, infections, heart problems, kidney issues, or venous insufficiency are possible causes that should not be ignored. Swelling that affects only one leg, worsens throughout the day, or appears without a clear reason should raise concern. People with diabetes, heart disease, or circulation problems should monitor swelling closely, as they are at a higher risk for complications. If swelling limits your daily activities or causes discomfort, it is suggested you schedule a visit with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Kent DiNucci, DPM of Ankle and Foot Clinic . 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 Omaha, NE . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.