The feet and ankles can have a variety of issues that may lead to symptoms such as pain, swelling, or stiffness. These injuries can be caused by simple wear and tear on the body as we age or from incidents like tripping or falling. While most injuries can be helped over time by staying active, there are a few key signs that the care of a podiatrist may be necessary. If there has been significant trauma from a situation such as a fall or a direct blow, a medical professional should examine the injury. Other signs that a podiatrist’s care may be necessary include a misshapen ankle or foot, a hot/tender feeling (especially in the calf), continuous pain, or an inability to bear weight on your legs or feet. Upon your visit, a podiatrist will be able to provide a proper diagnosis and treatment method for your injury.

Foot and ankle trauma is common among athletes and the elderly. If you have concerns that you may have experienced trauma to the foot and ankle, consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Foot and ankle trauma cover a range of injuries all over the foot; common injuries include:

• Broken bones
• Muscle strains
• Injuries to the tendons and ligaments
• Stress fractures

Symptoms

Symptoms of foot and ankle injuries vary depending on the injury, but more common ones include:

• Bruising
• Inflammation/ Swelling
• Pain

Diagnosis

To properly diagnose the exact type of injury, podiatrists will conduct a number of different tests. Some of these include sensation and visual tests, X-rays, and MRIs. Medical and family histories will also be taken into account.

Treatment

Once the injury has been diagnosed, the podiatrist can than offer the best treatment options for you. In less severe cases, rest and keeping pressure off the foot may be all that’s necessary. Orthotics, such as a specially made shoes, or immobilization devices, like splints or casts, may be deemed necessary. Finally, if the injury is severe enough, surgery may be necessary.

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