An eversion ankle sprain happens when the ankle rolls outward, stretching or tearing the deltoid ligaments on the inner side of the joint. This contrasts with the more common inversion sprain, where the ankle rolls inward, affecting the ligaments on the outer side. Eversion ankle sprains are often more severe because the deltoid ligaments are strong and require greater force to cause injury. An eversion ankle sprain can result from landing awkwardly, sudden directional changes, or twisting motions where the foot moves outward while the leg rotates inward. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and bruising on the inner ankle, whereas inversion sprains typically cause discomfort on the outer side. Eversion sprains also have a higher risk of injuries that affect the ligaments connecting the tibia and fibula above the ankle joint. These types of injuries can make walking difficult and may require extended healing time. A podiatrist can assess the severity, check for fractures, and determine if a cast, boot, or surgery is necessary. If you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an immediate appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact one of our podiatrists from Lakeside Foot and Ankle Center. Our practitioners 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 offices located in Leesburg and The Villages, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, typically affecting the bottom of the foot near the heel. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that supports the arch, becomes inflamed due to overuse or strain. The most noticeable symptom is sharp, stabbing pain, especially with the first few steps in the morning or after sitting for long periods. The pain may decrease as you move, but can return after prolonged activity. The main causes of plantar fasciitis include excessive walking, running, or standing, especially on hard surfaces. Among other causes are wearing unsupportive footwear or having foot abnormalities like flat feet or high arches. A podiatrist can help by diagnosing the condition and recommending treatment, such as stretching exercises, custom orthotics, or corticosteroid injections. In severe cases, surgery may be needed. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and correct treatment methods.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists  from Lakeside Foot and Ankle Center. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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

Foot ulcers are open sores, commonly seen in patients with diabetes, that can lead to severe complications if not promptly addressed. Among the most serious side effects of diabetic foot ulcers is gangrene, a dangerous condition where foot or toe tissue dies due to insufficient blood flow or infection. Gangrene usually begins with symptoms like skin discoloration, swelling, numbness, severe pain, or an unpleasant-smelling discharge. When left untreated, gangrene may rapidly worsen, requiring antibiotics or emergency surgery, such as removal of damaged tissue or even loss of toes, the foot, or part of the ankle. Patients with conditions that impair circulation, such as peripheral artery disease or diabetes, are particularly vulnerable to gangrene following foot ulcers. A podiatrist plays an important role in preventing these severe outcomes by assessing circulation, identifying infections early, and providing appropriate wound care or surgery if necessary. If you have foot ulcers from diabetes, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and regular foot care.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Lakeside Foot and Ankle Center. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Bunions are bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe, often caused when the tip of the toe angles inward toward the other toes. This deformity can lead to pain, swelling, redness, and difficulty finding comfortable shoes. The affected area may become tender, and, as the bunion progresses, it can affect walking and lead to other foot issues like calluses or hammertoes. A podiatrist can evaluate your bunion and offer various treatments. For mild cases, they may recommend lifestyle changes, such as wearing shoes with a wider toe box or using padding to reduce pressure. Custom orthotics can help correct foot alignment, providing relief from discomfort. In more severe cases, a podiatrist may suggest surgical options to correct the deformity and improve function. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort from a bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact one of our podiatrists of Lakeside Foot and Ankle Center. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Leesburg and The Villages, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, often affecting the big toe. It is more common in men and people with high levels of uric acid in their blood, which can result from poor diet, obesity, or certain medical conditions like kidney disease. Gout attacks are sudden and intense, often described as sharp, throbbing pain that can feel like the affected joint is on fire. The area becomes swollen, red, and tender to the touch, making it difficult to move the foot or walk. These flare-ups can last for days or weeks if not treated. To manage gout, lifestyle changes such as reducing alcohol and eating purine-rich foods like red meat are key. Anti-inflammatory medications and uric acid-lowering drugs can help relieve pain and prevent future attacks. A podiatrist can provide customized care, offer medication management, and suggest foot-friendly changes to alleviate pressure on the affected joint. If you are experiencing gout symptoms, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective treatment.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Lakeside Foot and Ankle Center. Our practitioners will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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