September 2024

A high ankle sprain, also known as a syndesmotic sprain, involves injury to the ligaments that connect the two bones of the lower leg known as the tibia and fibula, above the ankle joint. This type of sprain is distinct from a regular ankle sprain, which affects the ligaments surrounding the ankle joint itself. Symptoms of a high ankle sprain typically include pain above the ankle, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected leg. The injury often results from activities that involve twisting or turning movements, such as in sports or accidents. Causes may include sudden, forceful rotations of the foot or direct trauma to the lower leg. If you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can accurately diagnose the type of sprain, and treat it accordingly.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Gregory Rorick, DPM from Rorick Podiatry, PC. 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 New York Mills, Utica, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot ailment, but several other conditions have similar symptoms, potentially leading to a misdiagnosis. Arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, can cause heel pain and stiffness that mimics plantar fasciitis, often affecting multiple joints. A ruptured plantar fascia, a more severe injury, can lead to sudden, intense pain that might be confused with fasciitis. Stress fractures in the bones of the foot can also cause localized pain and swelling, particularly in the heel area, and may be mistaken for plantar fasciitis. Additionally, nerve entrapment, such as tarsal tunnel syndrome, can cause burning or tingling sensations in the foot, which may overlap with the discomfort associated with plantar fasciitis. If you have foot pain, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer effective treatment solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Gregory Rorick, DPM from Rorick Podiatry, PC. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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