Taking Care of A Foot or Ankle Injury

When you injure your foot or ankle, it’s important that you get the very best medical care.

Our feet and ankles are probably one of the hardest working parts of our body. Without your feet and ankles, you wouldn’t be able to do much, so if you’re dealing with injuries, our Pennsauken and Turnersville, NJ, podiatrists are always here to provide you with care when you need it most.

What are the most common types of foot and ankle injuries?

We see a lot of foot and ankle injuries here at our Turnersville and Pennsauken, NJ, practice, but we also see some injuries more than others. The most common types of foot and ankle injuries include,

• Plantar fasciitis
• Achilles tendonitis
• Stress fractures
• Neuromas
• Heel spurs
• Bunions
• Ankle sprains

How are foot and ankle injuries treated?

Mild injuries can often be treated with at-home care and conservative treatment options including the RICE method: rest, ice, compression and elevation. Over-the-counter painkillers can also ease minor swelling and pain; however, moderate to more severe injuries do require a proper diagnosis and treatment from a foot and ankle specialist. More advanced injuries may require,

• Prescription pain relievers
• Cortisone injections
• Shockwave therapy
• Physical therapy
• A protective boot, brace or cast
• Crutches
• Surgery (only in rare and more severe injuries)

When should you turn to a podiatrist?

Don’t ignore your injury or downplay it. You must seek care from a podiatrist if,

• You suspect you’ve sprained your ankle
• You heard a popping or cracking sound at the moment of impact or injury
• You can’t bear weight on the foot or ankle
• You can’t bend or move the foot
• There is a visible deformity of the foot or ankle
• You notice weakness, tingling or numbness
• Skin is hot to the touch or there are red streaks (signs of infection)

If you have questions or concerns about your foot and ankle injuries, our Turnersville and Pennsauken, NJ, podiatrists at Regional Foot and Ankle Specialists are always here to provide you with care. To schedule an appointment, call us at (856) 488-5290 or (856) 875-8855.