An ankle sprain might seem like a minor injury, but without proper care, it can lead to long-term instability and recurring issues. The ligaments in the ankle are designed to provide support and balance, but a sudden misstep, awkward landing, or quick pivot can overstretch or tear them. Many people assume a sprain will heal on its own, but rushing back to activity too soon can cause weakness and increase the risk of reinjury. Persistent swelling, pain, or difficulty bearing weight may indicate a more severe sprain that requires medical attention. Strengthening and balance exercises help prevent future sprains, while wearing supportive footwear adds protection. Ignoring a sprain can lead to chronic instability, making future injuries more likely. If pain lingers or mobility is compromised, it is strongly suggested that you see a podiatrist to ensure proper healing and prevent long-term damage.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Springfield Podiatry Associates. Our doctors 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 Springfield, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Corns, or hyperkeratosis, are thickened patches of skin that often develop on the feet due to various factors, with age being a primary contributor. As people age, changes in foot structure, joint alignment, and foot function can lead to altered gait patterns, increasing the risk of corn formation. Ill-fitting socks and shoes are also common causes. Loose socks can cause friction, while tight socks irritate the skin. Shoes that are too tight or too loose, particularly high-heeled or narrow shoes, can create localized pressure, leading to corns. Obesity can affect weight distribution and gait. This leads to foot deformities like flat feet or excessive pronation, which can also predispose individuals to corns. Structural issues like hammertoes or bunions can worsen the problem. Treatment varies based on severity and location. A podiatrist may use debridement to remove thickened skin or perform surgery in more advanced cases. Corticosteroid injections may also help with pain. If you are experiencing corn pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for proper care.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of Springfield Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

• Well-fitting socks
• Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
• Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctors to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, often the big toe. It typically develops in four stages, each with distinct characteristics. The first stage, asymptomatic hyperuricemia, occurs when uric acid levels in the blood are high but no symptoms appear. Over time, if untreated, it can progress to the second stage, which is the acute gout attack. This stage is marked by sudden, severe pain, redness, and swelling, usually in the big toe. After the attack subsides, the condition may enter the third stage, intercritical gout, where symptoms do not occur but uric acid levels remain elevated. The final stage, chronic gout, can develop after repeated attacks, leading to joint damage and the formation of tophi, which are lumps of uric acid crystals under the skin. Common causes of gout include genetics, obesity, a diet high in purines, and certain medical conditions that affect uric acid processing. If you have severe pain in your big toe, it may indicate gout has developed, and it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you to manage this painful condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Springfield Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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