Trauma Specialist

What are the signs of trauma to feet or ankles?

Even before you seek the help of a podiatrist, you need to identify foot and ankle trauma. You’ll probably have pain and swelling, but if you fractured your foot, you’ll probably experience bruising, along with that pain and swelling.

Depending on the extent of the fracture and its precise location, you might be able to walk or limp, though it will probably be painful.

If you break your ankle, the pain will be sudden and more severe. The ankle will not take any weight. You could have suffered a dislocation or deformity. Expect significant swelling and bruising.

What kind of treatment can I expect from a podiatrist?

Even before you visit a podiatrist, the rule of thumb is to rest an injury and apply ice while keeping your leg elevated. Beyond that, specific treatment for a foot or ankle injury depends on the type of injury.

Some foot and ankle injuries can require surgery, but at Washington Foot & Ankle Sports Medicine the rule is to consider non-surgical solutions first. A cast or compression can sometimes be enough to heal your injury.

It’s fair to say all foot and ankle injuries require a period of rest. You should refrain from applying pressure to the affected foot or engaging in sports and other strenuous activity. For injuries that have caused a tightening or inflammation of the muscles and ligaments, some rehabilitation could be necessary.

How do you prevent foot or ankle trauma?

Foot and ankle traumas are never completely avoidable, but wearing supportive shoes with a proper fit is a terrific start. Many people wear proper shoes when exercising, but change into dangerous footwear such as pumps or flip-flops for the rest of the day.

Stretching and proper training are important in preventing foot and ankle injuries. A podiatrist can help you structure a new workout regimen, particularly if you’re at risk because you’re either unfamiliar with an exercise or you’ve been inactive for any length of time.

It’s also possible for a Washington Foot & Ankle Sports Medicine podiatrist to give you a preventative test to reveal whether your feet are healthy and you’re walking properly.

What’s the difference between a podiatrist and an orthopedic surgeon?

Podiatrists and orthopedic surgeons are both specialists who are qualified to treat foot and ankle conditions, surgically and nonsurgically. In general, it’s advisable to choose a doctor who has the most direct experience treating your condition and with whom you feel the most comfortable.

No matter what the issue affecting your feet and ankles, chances are that specialists at Washington Foot & Ankle Sports Medicine have seen it, treated it, and healed it. To schedule an appointment with a Washington Foot & Ankle Sports Medicine podiatrist, call or contact the practice online today.