Coastal Podiatry Center: Larry Kipp, DPM

Understanding Ankle Tendonitis and Its Many Forms

Ankle tendonitis is inflammation of the tendons around the ankle joint, often caused by overuse, improper footwear, flat feet, or sudden increases in physical activity. Common types include Achilles tendonitis, posterior tibial tendonitis, and peroneal tendonitis. Symptoms may involve aching, swelling, stiffness, and tenderness along the affected tendon, especially after activity or in the morning. The area may appear red or warm and can become painful when walking, climbing stairs, or standing for long periods. The pain is usually localized but can radiate along the ankle or lower leg. A podiatrist can diagnose the specific type of tendonitis through a physical examination, medical history, and imaging studies, such as ultrasound or MRI. Treatment may include anti-inflammatory medications, custom orthotics, targeted exercises, and temporary immobilization. In more severe cases, advanced therapies or surgery may be needed. Since untreated tendonitis can lead to chronic pain or tendon rupture, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Larry J. Kipp, DPM from Coastal Podiatry Center. 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 New Port Richey, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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Caring for Diabetic Foot Ulcers

A diabetic foot ulcer is an open sore or wound that develops on the foot of a person with diabetes, often caused by poor circulation, nerve damage, or high blood sugar levels. These ulcers can lead to serious infections, if not treated promptly. Proper care includes keeping the wound clean, protecting it from pressure or friction, monitoring for signs of infection, and managing blood sugar levels. Symptoms include redness, swelling, discharge, or persistent pain. A podiatrist can help by evaluating the ulcer, providing specialized wound care, and recommending protective footwear or orthotics. This foot doctor can also develop a treatment plan to promote healing and prevent complications. If you have diabetes and have developed a foot ulcer, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Larry J. Kipp, DPM from Coastal Podiatry Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in New Port Richey, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Wound Care
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