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Merrillville, IN
Munster, IN

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Tuesday, 04 February 2025 00:00

A sprained ankle occurs when the ligaments that connect the bones in the ankle are stretched or torn, typically from twisting, rolling, or landing awkwardly on the foot. It differs from a strain, which involves damage to the muscles or tendons. Symptoms of a sprained ankle include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving the ankle, especially when walking or standing. The pain often intensifies when weight is placed on the injured foot. Treatment for a sprained ankle usually includes rest and elevation. In severe cases, a brace or crutches may be necessary to keep weight off the foot. Targeted exercises may also be recommended to strengthen the ankle and prevent future injuries. A podiatrist can assess the severity of the sprain, offer pain relief options, and guide you through rehabilitation exercises for proper healing. If you are experiencing ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Ahmad Elsamad, DPM from The Institute of Foot & Ankle Reconstructive Surgery . 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 offices located in Merrillville, and Munster, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Ankle Sprains
Friday, 31 January 2025 00:00

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

Tuesday, 28 January 2025 00:00

Burn injuries on the feet can occur from scalding liquids, stepping on hot surfaces, or chemical exposure. They are common in people who walk barefoot or work in environments with high heat or hazardous materials. These burns can be particularly concerning due to the foot's thinner skin and role in mobility. Immediate care involves cooling the burn under lukewarm water and gently cleaning it to remove debris. Cover the wound with a sterile, non-stick bandage and elevate the foot to reduce swelling. If you have sustained a burn foot wound, it is strongly suggested that you promptly contact a podiatrist to assess the burn's severity, prevent infection, and develop a treatment plan. Burns can lead to complications, such as infections or tissue damage, so care from this type of doctor is essential for effective healing and recovery.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Ahmad Elsamad, DPM from The Institute of Foot & Ankle Reconstructive Surgery . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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

Read more about Wound Care
Tuesday, 21 January 2025 00:00

Pickleball’s rapid rise in popularity brings undeniable benefits, but no sport is risk-free. Players are always at risk for foot and ankle fractures, often from diving or a misstep due to inexperience or improper technique. Many injuries stem from not learning the game’s nuances or practicing safe play. Additionally, the physical demands can worsen pre-existing conditions like arthritis, leading to increased pain and reduced joint function. Learning to fall safely, such as rolling instead of landing on outstretched limbs, can reduce the severity of injuries. Preventative measures, including wearing proper footwear, strengthening lower extremities, and understanding game strategy are vital. For players managing arthritis, adjusting activity levels and consulting with a podiatrist for joint care can help. If fractures or worsening arthritis occur while playing pickleball, it is suggested that you seek expert treatment from a podiatrist.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Ahmad Elsamad, DPM from The Institute of Foot & Ankle Reconstructive Surgery . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

  • Achilles Tendonitis
  • Achilles Tendon Rupture
  • Ankle Sprains
  • Broken Foot
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Stress Fractures
  • Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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

Read more about Sports Related Foot And Ankle Injuries
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