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It is common to twist an ankle. It can happen from a fall, or from unexpectedly stepping off of a curb. A sprained ankle can happen for the same reasons, and it is easy to notice as the ankle becomes painful and  swollen. This type of injury happens when the ligaments stretch beyond their normal range of motion, and patients may gradually develop joint pain if prompt medical attention is not received. Additional symptoms that may accompany an ankle sprain can consist of bruising and tenderness when touched. An X-ray is often performed to rule out an existing fracture, and this precedes starting the proper treatment. It begins with resting and elevating the affected foot as often as possible, and wrapping it with an elastic bandage, which may provide stability. Additionally, there are exercises that can be performed which may restore and increase the range of motion. If you have sprained your ankle, please consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can determine what the best form of treatment is for you.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Dr. Randy Garr from Bigfoot Podiatry. 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 Provo, UT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Studies have shown that there is a direct correlation between obesity and foot pain. Obesity causes an increase in the wear and tear on your feet, but can also cause problems in other body parts, including the hips, knees, and ankles. Obesity is generally defined as having a body mass index (BMI) of more than 30. A BMI of between 18 and 25, which can be assessed by a podiatrist, is considered normal. If you're carrying extra weight, one way of reducing foot pain is by wearing supportive shoes. Look for footwear made of strong, but not restrictive, materials. Shoes with a thick sole and adequate cushioning are also recommended. Be sure to have your feet measured again, in case your shoe size has changed. Wearing shoes with good arch support and a slightly raised heel can help to relieve foot pain caused by plantar fasciitis. Custom orthotics may be another option, to maintain the correct alignment of the feet as you go about your day. For more information on custom orthotics and proper footwear, please consult a podiatrist.  

Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact Dr. Randy Garr from Bigfoot Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and Your Feet

Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.

Problems & Complications

Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.

Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.

Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot. 

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

A bunion, known as hallux valgus, is a bony bump that occurs on the joint of the big toe. It forms from bones in the top part of the foot moving out of place, which causes the tip of the big toe to be pulled toward the smaller toes. It also forces the joint in the big toe to be stuck. Women and elderly people are most apt to suffer with bunions. These rarely occur in children, but sometimes babies are born with bunions, or they form in later childhood. The skin above the bunion might be sore and red. Bunions can form by wearing narrow or tight shoes, from one’s foot shape, way of walking, a medical condition, or a foot deformity. Calluses might develop where the big and 2nd toe touch, or on the ball of the foot. Bunion pads, well-fitted shoes, or toe spacers might help with bunion discomfort, and if not, bunion surgery (a bunionectomy) might be an option. Untreated bunions may get worse over time, and it might be difficult to walk or wear regular shoes without pain. If you have a bunion and it hurts, contact a podiatrist for the best treatment option for you.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Dr. Randy Garr of Bigfoot Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Podiatrists often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your provider.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

There are several small bones in the toes of each foot. When the toes are jammed into a piece of furniture or something heavy drops on them, they may fracture. The toes play a significant role in walking and maintaining balance, and a broken toe can affect your gait or walking style. Common symptoms include pain that will not subside, bruising, swelling, and redness of the affected area. In addition to having a physical examination, an X-ray is an effective method of determining a correct diagnosis. If the fracture is mild, buddy taping can be done. This is done by taping the affected toe to the toe next to it, as this provides stability for the healing process. In severe breaks, the bone may protrude from the skin and look deformed. This requires urgent medical attention, which may help to prevent infection, and surgery may be needed to properly align the displaced bone. If you feel you may have broken your toe, please confer with a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat this condition.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Randy Garr from Bigfoot Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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