An unstable ankle fracture is a serious injury that occurs when one or more bones of the ankle break in a way that disrupts the joint’s alignment. Unlike stable fractures, which may heal with casting or bracing, unstable fractures usually involve significant displacement and damage to the surrounding ligaments. This makes the ankle unable to bear weight safely and often requires surgical repair. Causes include falls, sports injuries, or car accidents, where the ankle twists or sustains a direct impact. Symptoms often involve severe pain, rapid swelling, bruising, and an inability to stand or walk. Because the joint is unstable, ignoring treatment can lead to long-term problems like arthritis or chronic weakness. Prompt medical evaluation is critical. If you suspect an unstable ankle fracture, it is suggested that you promptly see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Daniel Bell, DPM from Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
• Swelling around the area
• Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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

Edema, the medical term for swelling, is caused by excess fluid trapped in the body’s tissues, most commonly affecting the feet, ankles, and legs. During pregnancy, edema is often the result of hormonal changes, increased blood volume, and the growing uterus, which places pressure on blood vessels, slowing circulation. While mild swelling is common, significant or sudden edema can increase risks of discomfort, reduced mobility, or, in rare cases, indicate more serious conditions like preeclampsia. A podiatrist can provide supportive care by recommending proper footwear, compression options, and safe strategies to reduce swelling and maintain comfort. If you are experiencing persistent foot pain or swelling during pregnancy, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and management tips. 

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Daniel Bell, DPM from Florida. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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

Stubbing a toe is a painful injury that can vary in severity, depending on the structures involved. The lesser toes, which each contain three small bones called phalanges, are held together by ligaments and moved by tendons during walking. When the foot collides with a solid object, the result may range from a simple bruise to a more complex injury. A mild stubbed toe usually causes bruising or minor ligament strain, leading to temporary swelling and discomfort but no long-term damage. More severely stubbed toes include fractures of the bones or significant ligament injury, which can cause prolonged pain, swelling, and stiffness. In rare but serious cases, a stubbed toe may involve a dislocated joint, an open fracture where bone pierces the skin, or an angular deformity that requires surgery to correct alignment. A podiatrist can evaluate the injury, confirm its severity, and provide the appropriate treatment. If you have stubbed your toe, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment options.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Daniel Bell, DPM of Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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

Heel pain in children is often linked to Sever’s disease, a growth plate inflammation that appears during growth spurts, especially in active kids. But it is not the only reason young heels may hurt. Overuse injuries from sports, wearing poorly fitting shoes, flat feet, or high arches can also strain the heel. Plantar fasciitis, although more common in adults, can occur in athletic children. Bruises from impact, minor fractures, or tendonitis may cause similar discomfort. Even certain infections or inflammatory conditions can lead to heel pain. Symptoms can include limping, swelling, or pain that worsens after activity. Early evaluation helps identify the true cause and guide treatment, which may involve rest, stretching, wearing better footwear, or orthotics. If your child has ongoing heel pain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Daniel Bell, DPM of Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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