A sprained ankle occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle joint are torn, or stretched beyond their limits, and is usually the result of an unexpected twist or roll of the foot. Ankle sprains often happen during sports that involve sudden changes in direction, running on uneven ground, wearing high-heels or flip-flops, or stepping awkwardly off a curb. A previous ankle injury can increase the chance of re-spraining due to reduced stability and balance. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and tenderness surrounding the ankle, depending on the severity. A mild sprain may still allow walking, while a severe sprain can cause sharp pain, instability, and difficulty bearing weight. Sprains are classified as grade 1 with mild stretching, grade 2 with partial tearing, and grade 3 with complete rupture of the ligament. A podiatrist can diagnose the severity of the sprain and provide appropriate treatment. If you believe you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and treatment options.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Mital Patel, DPM from South Shore 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 take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Pronation is the natural motion your foot makes as it rolls inward when walking or running, helping to absorb shock and distribute weight evenly. In neutral pronation, the heel strikes the ground first, the arch lowers slightly to cushion impact, and weight is smoothly transferred forward to push off the toes. This balanced motion keeps the feet and ankles aligned, supporting efficient movement. When overpronation occurs, the foot rolls too far inward, often placing excess strain on the arch, heel, and big toe. This can lead to plantar fasciitis or arch pain. Underpronation, also called supination, means the foot rolls outward with each step. This can increase stress on the smaller toes and outer edge of the foot. Both abnormal patterns may contribute to ankle instability, repetitive injuries, or uneven wear on the feet. A podiatrist can evaluate your gait, identify pronation issues, and recommend proper treatment. If you are experiencing foot pain that may be linked to your gait, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Mital Patel, DPM from South Shore Podiatry. Our doctor 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 Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot, becomes inflamed. It often develops from repetitive stress, overuse, flat feet, high arches, or wearing shoes that lack adequate support. Risk factors include obesity, prolonged standing, excessive running, and tight calf muscles. Symptoms typically involve sharp heel pain, especially with the first steps in the morning, swelling, and stiffness. A podiatrist can help by evaluating foot mechanics, prescribing custom orthotics, and suggesting stretching exercises and supportive footwear. Providing targeted treatments to reduce inflammation and pain are other factors. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Mital Patel, DPM from South Shore Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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

Heel pain in children is often linked to Sever’s disease, a growth plate inflammation that appears during growth spurts, especially in active kids. But it is not the only reason young heels may hurt. Overuse injuries from sports, wearing poorly fitting shoes, flat feet, or high arches can also strain the heel. Plantar fasciitis, although more common in adults, can occur in athletic children. Bruises from impact, minor fractures, or tendonitis may cause similar discomfort. Even certain infections or inflammatory conditions can lead to heel pain. Symptoms can include limping, swelling, or pain that worsens after activity. Early evaluation helps identify the true cause and guide treatment, which may involve rest, stretching, wearing better footwear, or orthotics. If your child has ongoing heel pain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Mital Patel, DPM of South Shore Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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