June 2020

A broken ankle is a fracture that occurs in the tibia, fibia, or the talus, which is the bone that connects the leg to the heel.  While broken ankles are usually caused by a twisting or turning motion, stress fractures can occur when the legs and feet are overused.  While there are many types of unique fractures, there are four that are most common. The bimalleolar ankle fracture occurs when the knob on the inside of the ankle is fractured. A trimalleolar fracture involves the medial (inside), lateral (outside), and posterior (back) malleoli all breaking.  Medical malleous ankle fractures occur in the lower portion of the tibia, and a pilon fracture occurs on the weight bearing roof of the ankle. Fractures can also be displaced, meaning bones are out of their normal alignment, or non displaced, which are bones that are aligned but still broken. While these are the most common fractures, each break is unique, so it is important to consult with a podiatrist for more detailed information about your injury and a treatment plan towards recovery. 

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Bennet Grad from Bennet Grad, DPM. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
•  Swelling around the area
•  Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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

Warts are an abnormal skin growth that can be painful and unsightly. Plantar warts in particular may occur on the bottom of the foot and can be up to two inches wide. Warts form when a virus enters the skin typically through a cut or scrape, causing the skin to grow rapidly, resulting in a wart. Proper hygiene is very important as warts can be contagious. Warts can be contracted from sharing personal items such as towels and razors, or from public places like pools and showers. They can also be transferred to another part of the body after touching them. Warts can be treated by practicing proper hygiene, covering the wart to prevent spreading, and avoiding contact with the wart. However, it is best to consult with a podiatrist to prevent the wart from spreading or becoming worse.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Bennet Grad from Bennet Grad, DPM. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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

Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.

The Tarsal Tunnel is a narrow opening in the ankle that leads arteries, veins, tendons, and nerves to the foot. Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome occurs when the tibial nerve is squeezed anywhere along this tunnel. While flat feet lead to a higher risk of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome, an injury, diabetes, or an abnormal structure like a bone growth, can all lead to the compression or squeezing of the nerve. Symptoms are usually felt in the ankle or bottom of the foot and include a tingling or burning sensation, numbness, and shooting pain. In order to prevent permanent damage to the nerve, it is important to have Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome diagnosed by a podiatrist as soon as possible. A podiatrist will be able to diagnose the extent of the injury and determine the best course of treatment that may include surgery, therapy, orthotic devices, or simply rest.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Dr. Bennet Grad of Bennet Grad, DPM. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

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

Those who enjoy being active in the outdoors can understand the frustration that comes with developing blisters on the feet. Whether it is hiking, or partaking in an outdoor run or walk, blisters can make staying active very uncomfortable and often painful. They can be caused by increases in temperature which make the feet sweat excessively. Blisters can also form due to swelling of the feet, which in turn may cause chafing against footwear. This excess friction can cause the skin to protect itself, thus creating a blister. Mild relief may be found when comfortable shoes and quality socks are worn, cushioning the feet with insoles, and taping over areas of the feet that are more prone to developing blisters. If you would like more information on how to treat and prevent blisters, please consult with a podiatrist for professional care.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. Bennet Grad of Bennet Grad, DPM. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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

Many elderly people are interested in techniques on how to prevent falling. It is a common occurrence among patients who are sixty-five years and older, and this can increase the amount of foot injuries that can happen.There are methods that can be implemented that can limit the number of falling episodes. The home can be made safer by removing worn rugs that may encourage slipping. Additionally, it is suggested that routine examinations are maintained, and this can help to modify existing medications. It is beneficial to have bright lighting in the living environment, and removing clutter may eliminate falling. Many patients find it helpful to install grab bars in the toilet and shower area. Research has shown this is an effective method in maintaining appropriate stability that can help to prevent falling. If you would like additional information about the type of foot injuries that can occur as a result of falling, please consult with a podiatrist. 

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Dr. Bennet Grad from Bennet Grad, DPM. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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