November 2022

Many people have ankle pain without enduring an injury. It may be noticeable as a shooting pain sears through the ankle, or it may come in the form of mild aches. Arthritis may be the source of ankle pain, in addition to autoimmune disorders which may contribute to developing this type of pain. Gout is a form of arthritis that typically begins in the big toe, and may radiate toward the ankle. It can cause excruciating pain and discomfort, and completing daily activities is often temporarily halted. The condition that is known as flat feet may cause ankle pain, and this may be a result of a lack of shock absorption that is often found in people who have this condition. Additionally, there are specific types of infections that can cause ankle pain, which may travel to the ankle bone. A proper diagnosis is needed to determine the cause of the pain and can be followed by beginning the correct treatment. Any type of ankle pain warrants a visit to the podiatrist, who can effectively treat foot and ankle pain.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Central Valley Foot & Ankle. Our doctors 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 offices located in Visalia and Porterville, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

There are basic things to look for when purchasing running shoes. It is important to decide what type of running will be practiced, and this generally consists of mileage that is high, medium, or low. This is followed by choosing a shoe that will fit your foot, such as having a wider toe box, or a certain type of heel. Additionally, the type of surface that is run on will determine what type of shoe to buy. Running on pavements will require road shoes to be worn, and these are adequate in providing shock absorption. Trail shoes are designed to be worn while running through soft muddy trails, and wearing hybrid shoes is recommended for running on various surfaces. It is beneficial to bring the socks that are worn to try on with the shoes, in addition to bringing insoles, if applicable. If you would like more information about what type of shoes to buy for specific types of running, please consult with a podiatrist who can help you to make choices that are right for you. 

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Central Valley Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

• Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
• Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
• Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

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

People who have endured an Achilles tendon injury may have to temporarily alter their lives. It generally happens as a result of an injury that affects the Achilles tendon, and walking may be impossible until proper treatment is provided. This tendon is located in the calf, and connects the calf muscles to the heel. An injury can cause this tendon to rupture, or it may become inflamed from overuse. This can happen from running on uneven surfaces, or from increasing speed and mileage too quickly. If the injury happens from gradual overuse, common symptoms may include stiffness in the heel area after arising, and it can be difficult to flex the foot. Symptoms from a sudden injury can consist of intense pain in the calf and heel, the inability to stand on tiptoes, and a popping sound may be heard. If you have any of the above symptoms, please contact a podiatrist as quickly as possible so the correct treatment can begin.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Central Valley Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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

When the feet experience poor blood circulation, an individual may exhibit any number of symptoms. For example, poor circulation in the feet may cause sensations of numbness or leg pain. Importantly, poor circulation can cause discoloration. If an individual experiences poor circulation from peripheral artery disease (PAD), they may notice that their feet or lower legs can turn a different color. Specifically, the feet can turn a shade of purple or blue from poor circulation caused by PAD. These symptoms should not be taken lightly. If an individual experiences any symptoms, they should seek immediate medical attention. These symptoms can be addressed in several different ways, including medication and surgical procedures. Consult with a podiatrist today for more information about discoloration from poor circulation.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our podiatrists of Central Valley Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness   
• Numbness or cramping in the legs 
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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

Many individuals might be surprised to learn that their alcohol consumption can actually have a negative effect on the health of their feet. For example, excessively drinking alcohol can be dangerous for those who are suffering from gout in the feet. Gout is a kind of arthritis that can manifest symptoms in the feet. Gout is essentially triggered by uric acid, which is produced when the body is in the process of breaking down purines. Since alcohol, specifically beer, can contain many purines, someone can exacerbate their gout if they drink high quantities of beer. If you are someone living with gout and you frequently experience gout flares, it might be a good idea to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who will help you manage these symptoms.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Central Valley Foot & Ankle. 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 offices located in Visalia and Porterville, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.