A sprained ankle happens when the ligaments that support the joint are stretched or torn, usually from a sudden twist or fall. This injury can cause pain, swelling, and a feeling of instability. It may be hard to walk or put weight on the affected foot. The level of damage can vary from a mild stretch to a complete tear. Early care makes a difference in how well and how quickly the ankle heals. Rest helps reduce swelling. Elevating the ankle and avoiding weight-bearing activities can prevent further damage. Supportive wraps or braces may be helpful, and trying to walk too soon can delay healing. If your ankle remains swollen or unstable, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a full evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Lauryn Smith-Winton, DPM from S.W. Podiatry Group. 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 Waldorf, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

As the body ages, the feet often experience changes that can lead to chronic pain, limited mobility, balance problems, and abnormal gait. Common foot issues in older adults include plantar fasciitis, heel pain, and osteoarthritis, all of which may affect daily activities and independence. Thinning fat pads, reduced circulation, and stiff joints can increase discomfort and the risk of falls. A podiatrist can provide regular foot evaluations, recommend supportive footwear, manage pain, and treat underlying conditions to help maintain mobility and safety. If you or a loved one is experiencing foot discomfort or difficulty walking, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, ensuring continued comfort, stability, and quality of life.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Lauryn Smith-Winton, DPM from S.W. Podiatry Group. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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

Ankle osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition where the cartilage in the ankle wears down over time, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. It can result from previous injuries, like sprains or fractures, as well as aging or chronic stress on the joint. Symptoms include swelling, stiffness, aching, and a deep pain in the ankle that worsens with activity. The joint may appear swollen or deformed and can feel unstable or locked during movement. This condition can significantly impact daily activities, such as walking, climbing stairs, or standing for long periods. A podiatrist can help manage ankle osteoarthritis through a variety of treatments. Among them are custom orthotics, ankle braces, targeted exercises, anti-inflammatory medications, and lifestyle adjustments. In more severe cases, surgical options may be considered to relieve pain and improve function. If you are dealing with severe ankle pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Lauryn Smith-Winton, DPM from S.W. Podiatry Group. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

Everyday foot care involves regular attention to hygiene, moisture control, nail trimming, and inspecting the feet for changes. The feet carry the body through daily routines, and neglecting them can lead to discomfort, infections, or long-term complications. Proper foot care helps prevent common issues such as calluses, fungal infections, ingrown nails, and supports overall mobility and well-being. A podiatrist can provide expert guidance on maintaining healthy feet, identify early signs of potential problems, and offer personalized treatments. From routine care to addressing specific concerns, professional foot care makes a difference. If you want to keep your feet in top shape and prevent future issues, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on effective everyday foot care practices.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Lauryn Smith-Winton, DPM from S.W. Podiatry Group. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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