Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments that support the ankle stretch or tear, often due to sudden twisting, turning, or rolling of the foot. They are common in sports and activities that involve quick changes in direction. Symptoms can include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected ankle. Severe sprains may also cause instability and a popping sensation at the time of injury. Complications can include chronic ankle pain, instability, and arthritis if not properly treated. Treatment generally involves rest, compression, elevation, and anti-inflammatory medications to help manage the pain and swelling. Targeted stretching exercises are important for restoring strength and flexibility. Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the sprain but usually takes several weeks to a few months for full strength to return. If you believe you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Michele Kraft, DPM from Toes on the Go. 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 take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Carmel, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Flat feet can cause discomfort and impact overall mobility, and specific exercises can help strengthen the arches and alleviate symptoms. Towel scrunches are effective, and can be done by simply placing a towel on the floor, using your toes to scrunch it toward you, then release. Toe extensions involve sitting with your feet flat and lifting only your toes while keeping the rest of your foot on the ground. The stork stretch, where you balance on one foot while pulling the other foot towards your buttocks, helps improve balance and strengthen the foot muscles. Using a foot roller, back and forth under your arch, massages and stretch the muscles. These exercises, when practiced regularly, can enhance arch strength, reduce pain, and improve the overall function of flat feet. Flat feet can cause discomfort while standing or walking. If you have flat feet, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can perform a comprehensive foot exam and offer relief solutions, if needed.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Michele Kraft, DPM from Toes on the Go. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

Diabetic foot ulcers pose a significant risk to individuals with diabetes, often occurring on the ball of the foot or the bottom of the big toe. While some foot ulcers may not cause pain, it's important to seek immediate medical attention, as neglecting them can lead to infections and potential limb loss. Treatment approaches vary depending on the severity of the diabetic foot ulcer. Among them are X-rays to assess bone health and debridement, or cleaning out dead tissue, which may require hospitalization. Special footwear or braces may be recommended to protect the foot and aid healing. In cases of poor circulation, consultation with a vascular surgeon may be necessary. Even after an ulcer heals, ongoing care is vital to prevent recurrence, including the use of specialized footwear and daily foot monitoring for any sores or trouble spots. Individuals with diabetes face a higher risk of amputation, due to complications like peripheral artery disease and neuropathy, but limb loss can be prevented with regular foot care, proper medical supervision, and suitable footwear. Dealing with diabetic foot ulcers includes having a podiatrist as a member of your healthcare team. For help with foot ulcers, it is suggested that you make an immediate appointment with a podiatrist for 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 Michele Kraft, DPM from Toes on the Go. Our doctor 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 office located in Carmel, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A bunion, medically termed hallux valgus, is a bony protrusion on the inner side of the foot, precisely at the base of the big toe. This condition arises from the misalignment of the bones in the forefoot, compelling the big toe to angle towards the lesser toes, consequently protruding the joint at its base. Bunions can cause significant discomfort and interfere with your daily activities. If you have exhausted nonsurgical options like padding or orthotic shoes, bunion surgery may be the next step to relieve your pain and improve mobility. During the procedure, a podiatrist may remove the bunion, realign bones, or release tight ligaments to straighten your big toe. Risks of bunion surgery include nerve damage, bone healing issues, or overcorrection. The recovery process often takes up to six months. Initially, you may need to keep your leg elevated to reduce swelling, and it can take weeks before you can comfortably wear regular shoes again. Among the long-term benefits of bunion surgery are improved comfort and mobility. If you are struggling with bunion pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to discuss whether surgery is right for you. 

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Michele Kraft, DPM of Toes on the Go. 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?

Doctors 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 doctor.

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 Carmel, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fibromas are benign growths that develop in the arch of the foot, often causing discomfort and difficulty with walking. When conservative treatments fail to provide relief, foot surgery may be necessary to alleviate symptoms and restore mobility. During the procedure, the patient is typically placed under local anesthesia, numbing the foot to minimize pain. The surgeon then makes an incision in the skin, carefully dissecting the fibroma from surrounding tissues and nerves. Once the fibroma is removed, the incision is closed with sutures, and a dressing is applied to promote healing. Recovery time varies, depending on the size of the fibroma and the individual's ability to heal, but most patients can expect to resume normal activities within a few weeks. While surgical plantar fibroma excision offers a permanent solution, it is essential to discuss the risks and benefits with a podiatrist. If you have a plantar fibroma that is causing you pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine if this surgery is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Michele Kraft, DPM of Toes on the Go. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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