Big Toe Joint Pain

Big Toe Joint Pain

As funny as Big Toe Joint Pain may sound it is actually a very painful condition for anyone who suffers from it. In fact, arthritis in the foot is most commonly found in the metatarsophalangeal joint which happens to be at the base of the Big Toe. The pain is most often associated with stiffness and as a result walking can become very difficult.

As with any joint, bones are covered with smooth cartilage. The cartilage can be disrupted through injury, excessive wear, or trauma. The result is often a rubbing of the bones and may cause bone spurs or other types of scar tissue to develop. The scar tissue can inhibit the Big Toe from bending naturally during walking and may even keep it from bending at all.

This condition is called Hallux rigidus and is common in adults as they enter middle age. No matter the cause, over time the results are much the same. The articular cartilage is damaged to the point that stress on the joint itself becomes a physical problem.

Those suffering from Big Toe Joint Paint may experience pain while active, while pushing off on the toes during walking, swelling, hard growths on the top of the foot, and complete stiffness in the Big Toe.

When caught early, the treatment for Hallux rigidus is quite easy. In its early stages sufferers may notice they are walking on the outside of the foot as they experience pain near the big toe. This alleviates the discomfort but is a sign there may be trouble ahead. A trip to the podiatrist is advised because if the joint pain and inflexibility continue to the point that a bone spur may develop on the top of the foot, the treatment can be more risky and the recovery painful and slow.

Podiatrists will perform a thorough exam of the the foot and look for signs of Hallux rigidus. X-rays are often used to try and locate the position and/or size of possible bone spurs and the amount of wear and tear in the joint itself. As a result a podiatrist can prescribe treatment.

In most cases, the usual anti-inflammatory medicines will reduce the swelling and help with the pain. Using ice and common sports remedies are also useful but cannot halt the progression of this condition. As with any foot condition wearing properly fitted shoes will drastically reduce the symptoms. The use of custom foot orthotics or arch supports will help support the foot and bring the entire foot into proper alignment therefore reducing excess pressure on the joint.

In severe cases of Hallux rigidus surgical treatment may be necessary and should be discussed with your physician. Regardless of the treatment options you seek, keep in mind that paying attention to complete foot health can stop many painful foot conditions from developing in the first place.

Ball of Foot Pain

Ball of Foot Pain

When people complain or suffer from pain of the ball of the foot, they are most likely suffering from a condition known as Metatarsalgia. Any pain in the region just under the toes to the arch area is known as ball of foot pain. It is a very common condition affecting millions of people.

Metatarsalgia is usually caused by unnatural pressure on the area over time. This pressure can lead to inflammation in the metatarsals and may manifest itself in acute, chronic, or recurrent pain. One of the most prominent contributory factors is actually improperly fitted footwear. This is more common with women because of the many different styles of women’s shoes, but anyone not wearing a properly fitted and supportive shoe is also at risk for Ball of Foot Pain. The main problem occurs when narrow toe shoes force the ball of the foot into a smaller amount of space that it naturally needs. The changes the mechanics of walking and can lead to damage not only in the foot but also in the lower leg.

There are other factors involved in ball of foot pain but none so obvious as improper fitting shoes. Not only narrow toe boxes and high heels play a role in the condition but participating in exercise without proper support from  athletic shoes can do equal or worse damage. When we fit ourselves with the latest athletic shoes we often give ourselves a false sense of security regarding injury. This becomes more of a problem as we age and the layer of fat in the balls of our feet begin to thin out. It is very important to investigate the use of custom orthotics or arch supports if you experience any symptoms of Metatarsalgia.

However, the treatments for this pain will vary depending on the actual source of the discomfort. So the first thing to do when suffering symptoms is to properly identify them. If there is any swelling, pain, or discomfort in the ball of the foot switching shoes to something which allows a wider space for the foot to occupy should relieve the pressure on the foot itself. This might rid you of your foot pain entirely if it is an isolated event. Over the counter anti-inflammatory medication is also helpful but if any symptoms recur or remain, it is a good idea to see a podiatrist instead of self diagnosing your own foot problems.

There are many products available in drugstores claiming to ease foot pain and if you choose the wrong approach you may risk further injury. There is no substitute for a true custom foot orthotic or arch support and your podiatrist can prescribe or recommend how you might benefit from orthoses.

Orthotic devices are designed to not only relieve the pressure on the ball of the foot but to actually bring the entire foot into proper alignment to allow a normal gait and correct any maladies from the foot up through to the lower back. However, regardless of any advertisements you might see, there is no custom foot orthotic that can be fabricated for your foot without a 3-D mold of your own feet. This is not a complicated process and a foot cast kit can be sent right to your home. The point here is that adding a pre-made insert to your shoe might sound like a great idea but cannot possibly match the shape or condition of your foot with 100% accuracy.

Back Pain

Back Pain

Nealy 80% of Americans suffer from some type of back pain during their lives. Back pain comes in many forms and can be attributed to a myriad of symptoms. Some may be due to muscular, nerve, degenerative, arthritic, or skeletal problems. With back pain being such a general term there are also a great number of treatment methods to help alleviate back pain.

Back Pain can even be associated with maladies of the foot. Pain in the lower back is usually caused by overpronation of the foot or improper posture. Moving about awkwardly during the day and the shock to the foot of walking or standing improperly can contribute to excruciating back pain.

Most back pain caused resulting from foot conditions will be experienced in the lumbar region of the spine. This occurs when the heel strikes the ground and shock waves travel up the legs into the lumbar region. Under normal circumstances this is usually not an issue but if the foot and ankle are for some reason out of alignment this can be a real problem.

For minor back pain due to over exertion over the counter medications might do a good job reducing inflammation and relieving pain. For chronic issues it is a good idea to seek medical advice. A podiatrist may prescribe custom foot orthotics or recommend certain arch supports or insoles.

The idea behind using orthoses to correct back pain is a simple one. Orthotics bring the entire foot in line with the ankle, lower leg, knee, hip and back. Foot orthotics specially designed to reduce shock and absorb impact will cushion each step and keep the shock from traveling up through the legs.

It is not necessary to visit a foot doctor to obtain orthotic devices but be sure to purchase something made from a 3-D mold of your own feet. Drugstore devices cannot provide all the benefits of a true custom fit orthotic and may cause further pain and discomfort.

Athletes Foot

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is a skin condition resulting from the presence of fungus. Specifically the tinea fungus. It thrives on the feet because of the favorable environment surrounding the foot. Sweaty socks and the dark shaded area inside shoes provide the perfect breeding ground for tinea fungus.

Most people come in contact with the fungus near pools, locker room floors, and damp shower stalls. The fungus is easily transferred to the skin and under the right conditions will thrive and attack the foot.

Symptoms of Athletes Foot

Individuals who suspect they may be suffering from Athlete’s Foot might experience dry skin, scaling, itching, burning, swelling or blisters.  As the infection spreads the symptoms get worse, especially the itching and burning. Not every fungal infection of the foot is athlete’s foot. There are several other possibilities but Athlete’s Foot is easily the most common.

Athlete’s Foot spreads quickly and if not treated can spread to the bottom of the foot, in between toe and in some cases underneath the toenails. The tinea fungus can also attack other parts of the body if the sufferer touches the infected area and proceeds to touch other body parts.

Prevent Athlete’s Foot

Preventing Athlete’s Foot can be a daunting task for active people who are exposed to the damp dark areas near pools, in gyms, and dressing rooms. But, just using some common sense can help the cause. Washing the feet properly every day and drying completely drying them is the first line of the defense. Making sure hosiery and shoes are clean and dry is also a very important preventive measure. Also, make sure any orthotics, inserts or arch supports are thoroughly cleaned and dried often.  To further restrict the presence of moisture, foot powder is an extremely effective product. Any combination of these three methods can dramatically reduce the tinea’s ability to survive.

Treating Athlete’s Foot

Preventing Athlete’s Foot is not fool proof and if you find yourself battling the tinea fungus in the future, or are currently suffering from Athlete’s Foot, effective treatment options are available. Fungicidal sprays and lotions are found in every drugstore or pharmacy, but serious cases may require a visit to a podiatrist. They can determine the exact cause of the foot problem and prescribe treatment. Self diagnosing Athlete’s Foot may lead to prolonged suffering and serious infection. Podiatrists treat the entire foot regardless if the problem is on the surface or structural. A quick visit to the doctor and good hygiene will defeat this menacing fungus.

Arthritic Conditions

Arthritic Conditions

Arthritis means pain within a joint and is the leading cause of disability in America. It knows no age, and is a blanket diagnosis for a number of conditions.  Currently, Arthritis has no known cure but there are many forms of treatment available to help ease the discomfort associated with arthritis.

When it comes to the foot and ankle, there are three types of arthritis known to effect the area.  They are Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and Post-Traumatic Arthritis.

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition and becomes more noticeable to the sufferer at the onset of middle age.  During one’s life the cartilage in the lower extremities can become worn and frayed. This can cause swelling, joint pain, and inflammation. Osteoarthritis will most likely worsen over time.

Rheumatoid Arthritis is different than Osteoarthritis because this form of Arthritis attacks the entire system and the degenerative properties of the cartilage stem from the body’s own immune system.

Post Traumatic Arthritis occurs following some type of injury that leaves behind some form of scar tissue. It may due to a fracture, extreme sprain, or ligament tear. These type of injuries are very common but over time the remnants of the injury can produce arthritic symptoms.

The use of custom foot orthotics can provide some relief for those who are suffering from Arthritis. Custom orthoses will stabilize the foot and ankle and provide heel and arch support. This will bring the foot and ankle into alignment and help reduce the discomfort related to arthritis. It is important to seek the advice of a doctor if you believe you are suffering symptoms of foot and ankle arthritis.

Arch Strain

Arch Pain / Arch Strain

Arch Strain or Arch Pain is simply inflammation in the arch of the foot causing a burning feeling or in some cases acute pain. There are many causes for this type of foot pain.

There may be some structural instability or imbalance in the foot which can directly cause discomfort. The most common ocurrence of foot arch pain is as a result of Plantar Fasciitis.  Plantar Fasciitis Orthotics can be fabricated to help alleviate or correct the pain.

There is a band of tissue running across the bottom of the foot called the plantar fascia extending from the forefoot to the heel. When the plantar fascia becomes stressed due to over exertion or irritation,  Plantar Fasciitis can occur.

Those with flat feet often suffer from Plantar Fasciitis and experience pain in the heel and arch when the plantar fascia is stretched at the heel. An indicator of Plantar Fasciitis is heal or arch pain occurring in the morning or after long periods of rest.

Extreme discomfort is often the extent of the damage associated with this condition but in some cases, if not treated, heel spurs can occur. Heel spurs are bony protrusions from the heel.

Plantar Fasciitis and foot arch pain are easy to treat. The first line of defense is choosing proper shoes. Avoid high heels and look for shock absorbing soles. Custom Orthotics are a great method of treating Plantar Fasciitis especially when it’s due to flat feet. Orthoses will correct the instability in the foot and provide proper arch support.

When suffering from foot discomfort due to a strained arch it is recommended to seek out a custom fit orthotic and not when purchased over the counter at a drugstore or supermarket. A device that has not been cast from a 3-D mold of the foot will not correct the specific problems of the foot. Improper fitting inserts or insoles could result in damage to the foot or an increase in pain.

Foot Arch Pain

Foot Arch Pain

Foot Arch Pain Overview

Each foot contains 24 bones, which form two arches. The longitudinal arch runs the length of the foot, and the transverse arch runs the width. The bones of the arch are primarily held together by the shape with which they fit with each other and by fibrous tissues known as ligaments that serve to hold the bones to each other. The muscles of the foot, along with a tough, sinewy tissue known as the plantar fascia, provide secondary support to the foot. There are also fat pads in the foot to help with weight-bearing and absorbing impact. Arch pain can occur whenever something goes wrong with the function or interaction of any of these structures.

Foot Arch Pain Causes

The arches are the primary structures of the body that absorb and return force to and from the body to the outside world when we are on our feet. When something happens to these structures, pain and injury may result. Foot arch pain is a common problem that many suffer from.

There can be many causes of foot arch pain. Direct force trauma, ligament sprains, muscle strains, poor biomechanical alignment, stress fractures, overuse, or the tightness or lack of tightness of the joints in the foot may all cause pain in the arch.

Injury to the plantar fascia is a common cause of foot arch pain. The plantar fascia is a tough fibrous sheath that extends the length of the bottom of the foot and lends support to the arch. When the plantar fascia is damaged, the resulting inflammatory response may become a source of foot arch pain.

Sprains, strains, bruises, and fractures may be the result of a single stress or a combination of stresses to the foot. A blunt-force injury such as someone stepping on your foot may result not only in a bruise (contusion), but also in damage to the primary and secondary structures of the foot. Many of the muscles of the lower leg and foot attach on or near the arch. Injured or tight muscles may lead to incorrect biomechanics and in turn cause foot arch pain.

Injury to the bones of the foot can be caused by a single blow or twist to the arch or also by repetitive trauma, which can result in a stress fracture. A sprain of the arch occurs when the ligaments which hold the bones together are overstretched and the fibers tear. The muscles of the foot may be strained by overstretching, overuse, overloading, bruising, or being cut by stepping on a sharp object. Arthritis of the arch joints may also occur if the foot is subjected to repetitive movements that stress the arch.

Stress fractures, plantar fasciitis, and acute and chronic arthritis are most commonly the result of repetitive micro-trauma injuries. Micro-trauma injuries are caused when the structures of the body are stressed and re-stressed to the point that damage occurs in the tissues. Factors that commonly contribute to this injury can be running on uneven surfaces or surfaces that are too hard or too soft, shoes that have poor force-absorption qualities, or going too hard or too long during repeated exercise bouts.

Foot Arch Pain Symptoms

Foot arch pain and tenderness associated with plantar fascia strains are usually felt on the bottom of the foot and may manifest either as a specific or general area of tenderness. Plantar fascia pain may be increased or decreased by stretching of the arch. Generally, in mild cases of plantar fasciitis, the pain will decrease as the soft tissues of the foot “warm up”; however, pain may increase as use of the foot increases. In more severe cases of plantar fasciitis, pain may increase when the arch is stressed.

A more specific pain (point tenderness) is an indicator that something is wrong in that specific area. Pain with movement of the affected area is also an indicator of the particular body part affected.

Bones and ligaments work together to form joints, and bones are joined together by ligaments. Strains occur in ligaments. In the arch, there are ligaments that are located at the ends of each bone. These ligaments connect the bones to other bones on both ends and on the sides. Point tenderness and looseness of a joint are indicators of a sprain.

Fractures are indicated by point tenderness that may be severe over the area of bone that is affected. There may be a distinguishable lump or gap at the site of the fracture. A rotated toe or forefoot may also be a sign of a fracture.

The groups of muscles that support the arch can be divided into two groups. The muscles on the top of the arch start on the front lower leg and help to lift the arch, and the muscles that help pull the arch on the bottom of the foot are located the on back of the lower leg. Muscle injury may be indicated when pain is felt when the foot is fully extended, flexed, or turned in or out. Foot arch pain may also be felt when working the foot against resistance.

Bruises are the result of a direct-force injury to the body. A bruise can occur to the foot by a variety of causes, such as having your foot stepped on or by stepping on a rock. The tissues that compose the arch do not provide that area of the body much protection. Blows to the foot that result in pain, discoloration, swelling, and changes in how you walk may indicate more serious damage.

Foot Arch pain may have a variety of different causes. Proper evaluation and diagnosis of arch pain is essential in planning treatment. A good general guideline is to compare the injured side to the uninjured side. Injury may present itself as a distinguishable lump, a gap felt at that location, or a “crunchy” feeling on that spot caused by inflammation. The type, causes, and severity of pain are also good indicators of the severity of the injury.

Four grades can be used to describe foot arch pain:

• Pain during activity only
  

• Pain before and after activity, and not affecting performance
  

• Pain before, during, and after athletic activity affecting performance
  

• Pain so severe that performance is impossible

Exams and Tests

The doctor will take a brief history to determine how the injury occurred. If necessary, a thorough physical exam may be conducted to evaluate for any other injuries. Taking your workout shoes to the exam may also provide valuable information to the medical practitioner.

• Both feet will be physically and visually examined by the medical practitioner. The foot and arch will be touched and manipulated possibly with a lot of pressure and inspected to identify obvious deformities, tender spots, or any differences in the bones of the foot and arch.
  

• The medical practitioner will examine how the muscles of your foot function. These tests may involve holding or moving your foot and ankle against resistance; you may also asked to stand, walk, or even run. Pain caused by movements may indicate the cause of the pain.
  

• The nerves in the foot will be tested to make sure no injury has occurred there.
  

• An x-ray, MRI, or bone scan of the foot and arch may be taken to determine if there are changes in the makeup of the bone.

Foot Arch Pain Treatment

Self-Care at Home

When you first begin to notice discomfort or pain in the area, you can treat yourself with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). Over-the-counter medications may also be used to reduce discomfort and pain.

Rest will allow the tissues to heal themselves by preventing any further stress to the affected area.

Ice should be applied no longer than 20 minutes. The ice may be put in a plastic bag or wrapped in a towel. Commercial ice packs are not recommended because they are usually too cold.

Compression and elevation will help prevent any swelling of the affected tissues.

There are two types of over-the-counter medication that may help with the pain and swelling of arch pain. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) will help with the pain, and a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen will help with the pain and battle the inflammatory response. Caution should be taken when using these drugs, and dosage should not exceed the labeled directions. Those who have chronic medical conditions or who are taking other medications should consult with their doctor regarding the most appropriate type of pain and/or anti-inflammatory medications. Arch supports or foot orthotics may also help to ease arch pain.

Medical Treatment

Once the severity and cause of arch and foot pain is determined, a course of corrective and rehabilitative actions can be started.

• Therapists may use machines and/or manual therapies to reduce pain and increase circulation to the area to promote healing.
  

• Maintenance of fitness levels via modification of activity may be prescribed.
  

  • Substitute activities that may aggravate the pain and soreness with other activities; for instance, running causes the body to have multiple impacts with the ground, but the use of bicycling, elliptical trainers, step machines, swimming, or ski machines eliminates impact and allows you to continue to maintain and improve your fitness levels.
    

• Use corrective prophylactic measures.
  

  • Purchase new shoes or replace the insoles of your current shoes.
    

  • Athletic shoes lose the elastic properties of the soles through usage and age. A good rule of thumb is to replace your shoes every six months, more often if there is heavier usage. The use of insoles can increase energy absorption and add support to the foot.
    

  • Corrective foot orthotics may also improve the biomechanics of the foot.
    

• Focus on muscle strengthening and flexibility.
  

  • You may be given exercises to increase the strength and stability of the affected area and to correct muscles that may not be balanced.
    

  • Exercises to increase flexibility will maintain or improve the length of a muscle. Flexibility helps to make a stronger muscle that is less likely to be injured.
    

• Take medications to help reduce foot arch pain and inflammation as prescribed by your doctor.
  

• Follow up with your doctor until you are better.

Ankle Instability

What is Chronic Ankle Instability?
Chronic ankle instability is a condition characterized by a recurring “giving way” of the outer (lateral) side of the ankle. This condition is commonly seen after repeated ankle sprains. Usually the “giving way” occurs while walking or doing other activities, although this “giving away” can occur when you’re just standing. Chronic ankle instability can be a serious problem for athletes and can happen to anyone.

People with chronic ankle instability often complain of:

• A repeated turning of the ankle, especially on uneven surfaces or when participating in sports

• Persistent (chronic) discomfort and swelling

• Pain or tenderness

What Causes It?
Chronic ankle instability usually develops following an ankle sprain that has not adequately healed or was not rehabilitated completely. When you sprain your ankle, the connective tissues (ligaments) are stretched or torn. The ability to balance is often affected. Proper rehabilitation is needed to strengthen the muscles around the ankle and “retrain” the tissues within the ankle that affect balance.

Repeated ankle sprains often cause and perpetuate chronic ankle instability. Having an ankle that gives way increases your chances of spraining your ankle repeatedly. Each subsequent sprain leads to further weakening (or stretching) of the ligaments resulting in greater instability and the likelihood of developing additional problems in the ankle.

Evaluation and Diagnosis
If your ankle feels unstable and gives way repeatedly, or if you’ve had recurring ankle sprains, see a foot and ankle specialist to have your condition evaluated and treated. Chronic ankle instability that is left untreated leads to continued instability, activity limitations, arthritis, and tendon problems.

In evaluating and diagnosing your condition, the foot and ankle specialist will ask you about any previous ankle injuries and instability. Then they will examine your ankle to check for tender areas, signs of swelling, and instability of your ankle as shown in the illustration. X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs may be helpful in further evaluating the ankle.

Treatment Options
Treatment for chronic ankle instability is based on the results of the examination and tests, as well as on the patient’s level of activity.

Non-surgical treatment may include:

• Physical therapy. Physical therapy involves various treatments and exercises to strengthen the ankle, improve balance and range of motion, and retrain your muscles. As you progress through rehabilitation, you may also receive training that relates specifically to your activities or sport.

• Bracing. Some patients wear an ankle brace to gain support for the ankle and keep the ankle from turning. Bracing also helps prevent additional ankle sprains.

• Medications. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, may be prescribed to reduce pain and inflammation.

In some cases, the foot and ankle specialist will recommend surgery based on the degree of instability or lack of response to non-surgical approaches. Surgical options mainly involve repair or reconstruction of the damaged ligament(s). However, other soft tissue or bone procedures may be necessary depending on the severity of your condition and whether you have other problems in the foot or ankle. The length of the recovery period will vary, depending on the procedure or procedures performed. Ankle instability should be addressed as soon as possible to avoid surgery, if you are expericinng any aknle instability contact your doctor as preventative mesasure could avoid surgical measures.

Foot Orthotics – Give the Gift of Foot Pain Relief

This year give someone you love a gift that will last a lifetime.  Those suffering from foot pain, heel pain, knee pain and back pain would love nothing more to find relief this holiday season.

A pair of custom foot orthotics from Footcare Express is exactly what the doctor ordered. Literally! A custom orthotic device will bring the foot and ankle into proper alignment an in many cases allow a person to walk, run, or bend properly for the very first time in their lives.

Not everyone is able to offer a truly custom foot orthotic and it CANNOT be found in any drugstore or infomercial. To be custom, a mold of each foot must be cast and analyzed by a professional Pedorthist or Podiatrist and then fabricated by an experienced lab technician according to a prescription.

It is very rare for one of our feet to exactly match the other so the chances of your foot or the foot of someone you love to match an orthotic insert that is already made is slim to none.

Here is how Footcare Express can deliver a truly custom fit orthotic to your door for Christmas. First we send our Quickmeasure Kit to be wrapped and placed under the tree. When the gift is opened the recipient will make a custom mold of their foot according to the included instructions and have a perfect foot cast molded in seconds. Then they simply return the foot cast to Footcare Express in the pre-paid packaging and pain relief will arrive in a matter of days.

It is a particularly good time of year to send Custom Foot Orthotics as a gift because many people we love are about to embark on their New Year’s Resolutions of good health through exercise. Orthoses will help prevent the type of injuries suffered from over exertion or bad form.  These injuries include shin splints, ankle sprains and strains, torn ligaments and muscles and knee, hip and back pain.

Everyone can use the gift of proper foot care and pain relief. Whether it is a grandparent who suffers minor pain or stiffness while walking, a nephew looking for an advantage on the soccer field or a runner looking to run pain free, give the gift that will change someone’s life forever.

Get Your Custom Foot Orthotics right here Online! or Call 1-877-OUR-FEET

We carry a full line of custom foot orthotics! Sports orthotics, Dress Orthotics, Causal Orthotics, Express Correct Foot Orthotics and Orthotics for Sandals. Additional we have created the finest high tech pre-designed foot orthotics on the market. Take care of your feet with our custom foot orthotic, arch supports, shoe insoles and footwear! Visit our online Foot Orthotics Store!

Ankle Injuries

Ankle Injuries

Ankle fractures and strains are very common injuries because the ankle needs to support the entire weight of the human body. Orthopedists and podiatrists treat millions of ankle injuries every year.

Most ankle injuries involve a sudden twist and possible overstretch or strain of a muscle or tendon. When the connective tissue becomes stretched or strained it is called a sprain. Avulsion fracture occurs when a piece of bone is torn away along with a connective ligament.

The majority of ankle injuries treated today are inversion injuries which means the foot will twist inward causing damage to the outside of the foot. Injuries to the medial ligaments of the inside of the foot are less common but are caused by the foot twisting outward.

Sprains can be either mild, moderate or severe and this depends on the seriousness of the ligament tear. Most physicians will order x-rays to rule out more severe damage such as dislocation or fracture. If the injury is indeed a sprain it can usually be treated with rest, ice, compression and elevation.

To reduce pain and swelling in the ankle area anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs can help but should only be used as directed.  Most ankle strains and sprains will heal in two to six weeks. With more severe injuries taking up to twelve weeks to heal and rehabilitation to provide renewed strength and balance may be required.

Individuals suffering from ankle issues are at risk for further injury. For this reason it is important to consider shoes that provide stability and support. Custom orthotics will help provide further stability following and help prevent further or future damage.

A sprain or strain very rarely requires surgery but in those rare cases there are surgical solutions to rid people of nagging and persistent pain. Torn ligaments however, often require surgery in order to be reattached to the bone. These type of procedures usually take up to two months to heal. Arthroscopic procedures are also available to treat chronic pain by removing damaged cartilage, bone fragments and scar tissue.

Everyone is at risk for ankle injuries whether they are an athlete or just engaging in normal activity. It is important to warm up, stretch the calves, and cool down properly when exercising to reduce the the risk of injury.

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