A high ankle sprain can be frustrating because the pain may feel different from a typical ankle injury. This condition affects the ligaments above the ankle that hold the tibia and fibula together. These strong bands of tissue help stabilize the lower leg when you walk, run, or turn. A high ankle sprain may cause pain above the ankle, swelling, and trouble bearing weight. Some people also notice discomfort that becomes worse when the foot is rotated.

The injury often occurs when the ankle is twisted or rotated suddenly. For example, the foot may turn outward while the leg continues moving forward. This can stretch or tear the ligaments between the lower leg bones. High ankle sprains are common in activities involving quick turns or physical contact. 

Previous ankle injuries can increase risk. Weak ankle stability may also make another injury more likely.

High and low ankle sprains are not the same. A low sprain usually involves ligaments along the outside of the ankle and may cause pain around the ankle bone. A high sprain affects the area above the joint and can make walking especially uncomfortable. A podiatrist can evaluate the location of pain and assess ankle stability. Depending on the injury, treatment may include rest, bracing, or protected weight-bearing. Imaging may be used to check for ligament damage or a fracture. Severe cases may require surgery.

Recovery depends on the severity of the injury and how well the ankle is protected while healing. Following podiatric instructions can help reduce stress on the injured ligaments and lower the chance of reinjury. If you have sustained a high ankle sprain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Scott Matthews, DPM, MD from Salem Foot Care . 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 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 Wikesboro, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A bunion is a foot deformity that develops when the big toe gradually leans toward the smaller toes. As the toe shifts, the joint at its base begins to stick outward, creating a noticeable bump. Bunions do not always cause symptoms, but they can become painful as the foot changes. Discomfort may develop around the big-toe joint, beneath the ball of the foot, or in nearby toes. The joint can also become red, swollen, and harder to move. Bunions may also place pressure on nearby toes and contribute to changes in their position.

Several factors may increase the likelihood of developing bunions. Genetics can play a role because some people may inherit weaker tendons and ligaments that affect foot stability. Flat feet and certain joint diseases may also increase the risk. Tight or pointed shoes are not considered the main cause of bunions, but they can increase pressure on the toes and make symptoms worse. As the deformity progresses, the front of the foot may become wider. Some people eventually experience increasing pain or difficulty walking, while others continue to have only mild symptoms.

A podiatrist can evaluate a bunion and determine how much the position of the big toe has changed. The examination may include observing the foot while standing and walking. A weight-bearing X-ray can provide a clearer view of the deformity and show the position of the bones. Treatment depends on symptoms, the degree of deformity, and other medical conditions. Professional nonsurgical care may help reduce discomfort, but it does not permanently correct the misalignment. When a bunion causes severe pain and other treatment has not helped, surgery may be considered to correct the position of the toe. If a bunion is causing persistent foot pain or difficulty walking, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Scott Matthews, DPM, MD of Salem Foot Care . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Podiatrists often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your provider.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

Running is a great way to stay active, but increasing training demands too quickly can place excessive stress on the feet. Foot stress occurs when repeated impact overwhelms the bones and supporting tissues. In some runners, this can develop into a stress fracture. Common symptoms include localized foot pain, tenderness, and swelling. Discomfort may begin during running and later continue during daily activities. Paying attention to these warning signs can help runners seek care early.

A sudden increase in running speed or mileage is a common cause of foot stress. Adding hills or longer distances without enough recovery time can also increase strain. Wearing the wrong running shoes may contribute when footwear lacks proper support, cushioning, or fit. Other risk factors include previous stress injuries, training on hard surfaces, and poor recovery. Rapidly changing workouts can also increase risk. Runners who ignore early pain may continue placing pressure on an area that needs time to heal.

A podiatrist can evaluate the foot, review training habits, and check for tenderness or swelling. Imaging tests may be recommended when a stress fracture is suspected. Treatment often begins with reducing activities that cause pain and protecting the injured foot. A podiatrist may recommend wearing supportive footwear, a walking boot, or temporary activity restrictions. Follow-up visits can help monitor healing and determine when running can safely resume safely.

Preventing running injuries starts with gradual training changes and adequate recovery between demanding workouts. Increase mileage and speed carefully. Replace worn running shoes and choose footwear suited to your foot shape and running needs. Never try to run through persistent pain, especially when walking also hurts. Early attention can support healing and reduce future complications. If you have developed a foot stress fracture from running, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Scott Matthews, DPM, MD from Salem Foot Care . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

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

Everyday foot care is important for comfort and the health of your feet. Good hygiene helps keep skin and nails healthy, while reducing exposure to bacteria and fungi. Poor hygiene can contribute to athlete’s foot, ringworm, and irritated skin. Symptoms may include itching, peeling,or nail color changes. People with diabetes need extra attention because nerve problems can make injuries harder to notice. Regular foot care helps you spot changes early.

Several risk factors can increase the chance of hygiene-related foot conditions. Sweaty feet create moisture where fungi can grow. Wearing damp socks or poorly ventilated shoes can also increase risk. Additionally, walking barefoot in shared showers or locker rooms may expose your feet to infections. Diabetes is another important risk factor because reduced sensation can allow cuts or blisters to go unnoticed. Keeping feet clean and dry helps lower these risks.

Everyday foot care does not have to be complicated. Wash your feet with warm water and mild soap, then dry them carefully, especially between the toes. Change socks daily, choose breathable footwear, and trim toenails straight across without cutting them too short. Check your feet regularly for blisters, cracks, or nail changes. If you have diabetes, check your feet daily. A podiatrist can examine concerning areas and diagnose infections. Treatment may include antifungal medication or wound care for sores that do not heal. Follow-up visits can help confirm healing.

Healthy feet support walking, exercise, and activities. Good hygiene can reduce problems and help you recognize changes early. Avoid sharing towels or footwear in case a fungal infection is present. Keep shoes clean and dry properly. If symptoms continue despite home care, a podiatric evaluation is important. If you have a problematic foot condition, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions. 

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Scott Matthews, DPM, MD from Salem Foot Care . 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 Wikesboro, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.