A high ankle sprain affects the strong supporting ligaments connecting the flower leg bones above the ankle. These two bones form a stable space around the ankle joint. This type of sprain differs from a low ankle sprain, which usually damages ligaments on the outside of the ankle. A high ankle sprain usually occurs when the foot turns outward as the leg rotates inward. Contact sports, sudden changes in direction, and falls can produce this force. A broken ankle can occur at the same time.

Pain is usually felt above the ankle and between the lower-leg bones. It can become sharper when the foot bends upward, when climbing stairs, or when pushing off the toes. Swelling and bruising can develop, although they may be less noticeable than with a low ankle sprain. Patients can place weight on the foot despite a serious injury. A podiatrist will ask how the injury occurred and examine the area. The examination includes checking ankle movement, stability, and the ability to bear weight. X-rays can reveal a fracture or widening between the bones. An MRI scan can show ligament damage that is not visible on an X-ray.

Treatment depends on the ligament damage and whether the ankle remains stable. A podiatrist can protect the joint with a brace, walking boot, or cast. Crutches may reduce pressure on the ankle. Follow-up examinations help track healing and determine when weight-bearing activity can safely increase. Recovery takes longer than it does for a low ankle sprain. Returning to sports too soon can lead to continued pain, weakness, or instability. When the lower leg bones have separated, surgery may be required to restore their position. A podiatrist can recommend a gradual return to activity after the ligaments have healed. If you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Imaze Marian Davis, DPM from Marian Davis, DPM, PA. 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 Miami, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Toenail fungus can begin with a change in the color of a nail. A white or yellow spot may appear before the nail becomes thicker or brittle. The nail might crack, lift from the skin, or collect material underneath. This infection develops when fungi enter the nail or openings in nearby skin. It frequently affects the big toe or second toe. Although some people feel no discomfort, others develop pain that makes standing or walking difficult. The appearance of an infected nail can cause embarrassment. Without treatment, the infection can spread to other nails.

Toenail fungus is contagious and can pass between people through contact with infected skin or nails. Shared nail clippers and towels can carry the fungus. Warm, damp public spaces, like locker rooms and pool decks, create opportunities for exposure. Athlete's foot, a fungal infection of the skin, can spread into a toenail. Having dirty nails alone does not cause this condition. Changes in nail color do not necessarily mean a fungus is present, however. A podiatrist can examine the affected nail and collect a sample for testing to confirm the diagnosis.

Toenail fungus rarely clears without treatment because fungi can remain inside and beneath the nail. Scraping or filing the surface does not remove the infection. A podiatrist can prescribe antifungal medications applied to the nail or taken by mouth. The choice depends on the extent of infection and the patient's health. Treatment can clear the fungus before the nail looks normal again. Toenails grow slowly, so a healthy-looking big toenail may take a year or longer to return. Early diagnosis makes treatment more effective and helps prevent spread. If you have symptoms of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

For more information about treatment, contact Imaze Marian Davis, DPM of Marian Davis, DPM, PA. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Miami, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot biomechanics describes how the feet, joints, and bones work together during standing and movement. Each foot contains 26 bones that create a flexible, yet supportive structure. These bones help absorb impact, maintain balance, and move the body forward. Healthy biomechanics allow the foot to adapt to different surfaces while supporting normal walking and running. Problems with alignment or movement can contribute to foot pain, ankle pain, and uneven pressure.

The foot bones are divided into three groups. The tarsals are seven bones located around the heel and midfoot. They help form the ankle area and provide stability while absorbing force. The five metatarsals connect the midfoot to the toes and help distribute weight during each step. The 14 phalanges form the toes and assist with balance and push-off. Together, these bones create a coordinated foundation that supports the body during activity.

Foot biomechanics can change when the bones, joints, or surrounding tissues do not move normally. Risk factors include previous injuries, structural differences, and repetitive activity. Symptoms may include arch pain, heel pain, or discomfort while walking. A podiatrist evaluates symptoms, examines foot alignment, and observes how the feet move. Treatment may include wearing supportive footwear, custom orthotics, or other targeted care. Imaging tests may be recommended when a bone or joint injury is suspected.

Understanding foot biomechanics can make it easier to recognize why proper support matters. The tarsals provide stability, the metatarsals help distribute pressure, and the phalanges contribute to balance and push-off. These bones do not work separately. Their coordinated movement helps create an efficient stride and reduces stress. If foot or ankle pain affects your movement, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Imaze Marian Davis, DPM from Marian Davis, DPM, PA. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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