A high ankle sprain involves injury to the ligaments that connect the two lower leg bones above the ankle joint. This type of sprain often occurs with twisting or rotational movements, and may cause pain above the ankle rather than on the sides. The area may appear swollen and can feel tender, especially while walking, turning, or bearing weight. Some people notice instability or a tight, aching sensation that worsens with activity. High ankle sprains are commonly seen in sports or activities that involve sudden changes in direction. A podiatrist can evaluate the injury, test joint stability, and may use imaging to determine the extent of ligament damage. Treatment includes immobilization, supportive bracing, and targeted exercises to restore strength and motion. Recovery may take longer than a typical ankle sprain, making early care important. If you suspect you have a high ankle sprain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment solutions.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact one of our podiatrists from Kokomo Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors 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 Contact Us . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Sever's disease is a common cause of heel pain in growing children and adolescents, especially those who are active in sports. It occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes irritated due to repeated stress and tension on the Achilles tendon. This condition often develops during growth spurts when bones grow faster than muscles and tendons can adapt. Symptoms include heel pain, tenderness, and limping during or after activity. It can affect children who participate in running or jumping activities and those with tight calf muscles. A podiatrist can evaluate the condition, recommend stretching, supportive footwear, and activity modifications to reduce strain. If your active child has persistent heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat Sever’s disease.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Kokomo Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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

During pregnancy the feet often undergo significant changes due to shifts in changes in body movement and body structure. Increased weight gain places additional pressure on the arches, while unevenly distributed body mass and an altered sense of gravity can change posture and walking patterns. These factors may lead to flatter feet, swelling, and increased foot discomfort. Risk factors include pre-existing foot conditions, prolonged standing, and inadequate footwear support. Hormonal changes can also loosen ligaments, further affecting stability. A podiatrist can assess changes in movement or posture, recommend supportive footwear or orthotics, and provide strategies to relieve pain and improve function. If you have developed foot pain during your pregnancy, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief tips.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with one of our podiatrists from Kokomo Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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

A bunion is a bony deformity that develops at the base of the big toe. The top of the toe points toward the smaller toes and the joint shifts outward. This structural change can lead to pain, inflammation, swelling, and difficulty wearing certain shoes. The misalignment may worsen and affect overall foot function. Causes include inherited foot structure, improper footwear, and abnormal pressure on the joint. Risk factors involve tight shoes, prolonged standing, and certain foot mechanics. A podiatrist can assess the severity of the bunion, recommend supportive footwear, provide custom orthotics, and suggest treatment to relieve discomfort and slow progression. If you have a bunion, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact one of our podiatrists of Kokomo Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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