Category: Surgical Services

A broken ankle, or ankle fracture, occurs when one or more of the bones around the ankle joint break. Common causes include twisting injuries or direct impact. Symptoms include sharp pain, bruising, swelling, tenderness, and difficulty bearing weight. It can be difficult to distinguish between a broken ankle and a sprained ankle, especially with serious injuries. Treatment may range from conservative methods like rest and immobilization to surgery, depending on the severity of the fracture.

A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, causing the toe to bend towards the others. It results from abnormal foot mechanics, inherited foot type, or tight-fitting shoes. Symptoms include swelling, redness, pain, and restricted toe motion. Treatment options range from padding and taping to surgery, depending on severity. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial to prevent further complications.

Compartment syndrome occurs when excessive pressure builds up around muscles, restricting blood flow, oxygen, and nutrients, leading to severe pain and potential tissue damage. There are two types: acute, which is sudden and requires immediate medical attention, and chronic, which develops over time, often due to intense physical activities. Symptoms include swelling, pain, tightness, numbness, and tingling. Acute compartment syndrome is typically caused by severe injuries, while chronic compartment syndrome is often related to repetitive physical activities. Treatment for acute cases involves surgery called fasciotomy to relieve pressure, while chronic cases may require rest, medication, modified exercise routines, physical therapy, and orthotics.

A bunion is commonly referred to as a “bump” on the joint at the base of the big toe—the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint—that forms when the bone or tissue at the big toe joint moves out of place. The toe is forced to bend toward the others, causing an often painful lump of bone on the foot. Because this joint carries a lot of the body’s weight while walking, bunions can cause extreme pain if left untreated. The MTP joint itself may become stiff and sore, making even the wearing of shoes difficult or impossible.

Bunions form when the normal balance of forces that is exerted on the joints and tendons of the foot becomes disrupted. This disruption can lead to instability in the joint and cause the deformity. Bunions are brought about by years of abnormal motion and pressure over the MTP joint. They are, therefore, a symptom of faulty foot development and are usually caused by the way we walk and our inherited foot type or our shoes.

If your bunion is causing you to experience foot pain, our doctors and staff will evaluate the best treatment options for you.

There are several options that we will consider including alteration of footwear, pads or cushions on the feet, or custom-made foot orthotics to provide support and sometimes surgery.

If you are ready to be rid of the pain and discomfort from bunions call us now! Our podiatrists have treated countless bunions before and use the best treatment options for you and your feet.