A sprained ankle is one of the most frequent injuries in volleyball and happens when the ligaments that support the ankle are stretched or torn. Quick movements, jumping, spiking, or blocking often lead to awkward landings that place excess force on the joint. Sprains are classified by degrees of severity. A mild sprain, or first degree, involves slight stretching with minor pain and swelling. A moderate sprain, or second degree, includes partial tearing with noticeable bruising and difficulty walking. A severe sprain, also known as third degree, involves complete ligament tearing, significant swelling, and instability. A podiatrist can assess the degree of injury, provide treatment, and create a rehabilitation plan to restore strength and prevent re-injury. If you have sprained your ankle while playing volleyball, it is suggested that you promptly contact a podiatrist who can begin the appropriate treatment for recovery.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Kenneth Williams, DPM from Texas. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

If you have any questions please contact our office located in San Antonio and Beeville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Broken toes can cause significant discomfort and limit mobility. Toe fractures usually occur from stubbing the toe, dropping something heavy on the foot, or sustaining a sports-related impact. Symptoms include swelling, bruising, and pain when walking or applying pressure. Diagnosis is confirmed through an exam and imaging to assess the extent of the fracture and determine if the bone is displaced. Stable, nondisplaced fractures may be managed with protective footwear to reduce movement and pressure, while displaced fractures often require a procedure to realign the bone. Fractures of the big toe tend to be more serious due to this toe’s role in balance and walking. Big toe injuries may require stabilization or even surgery if the damage is severe. A podiatrist can provide a proper diagnosis, realignment, and supportive devices to promote healing and prevent long-term complications. If you are experiencing pain from a broken toe, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Kenneth Williams, DPM from Texas. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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

Ankle osteoarthritis develops when the protective cartilage in the ankle joint wears down over time, leading to pain and stiffness. Symptoms often begin gradually and worsen with activity. Many people notice aching or tenderness in the ankle that increases after walking or standing for long periods of time. Swelling may occur surrounding the joint, and the ankle can feel stiff, particularly in the morning or after rest. As the condition progresses, the range of motion may become limited, making it harder to move the ankle smoothly. Some individuals experience a grinding or catching sensation due to rough joint surfaces. In more advanced cases, deformity and instability may develop, which can interfere with daily activities. If you are experiencing ongoing ankle discomfort or stiffness, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to receive a proper diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Kenneth Williams, DPM from Texas. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

Stress fractures can be common among athletes. They can happen as a result of the consistent pressure that the bones of the feet endure during the athlete’s chosen sport. Stress fractures are defined as small, hairline fractures in the bones which may make walking and running difficult. Common symptoms can include pain surrounding the affected bone, which may improve when the foot is resting and elevated. Some patients experience bruising and swelling, accompanied by achiness. Additionally, stress fractures may gradually develop as a result of wearing shoes that do not fit properly, and this may weaken the foot bones. If you have pain in your foot, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat stress fractures. 

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Kenneth Williams, DPM from Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in San Antonio and Beeville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.