Chronic ankle pain refers to persistent discomfort in the joint that lasts for an extended period and may interfere with daily activities. Symptoms include ongoing pain, difficulty walking, foot swelling, and visible bruising. Many individuals also experience a limited range of motion, making it hard to move the ankle freely or bear weight comfortably. Several conditions can contribute to chronic ankle pain, such as tendonitis, where the tendons become inflamed due to overuse or injury. Arthritis is another common cause, leading to joint stiffness and swelling over time. Additionally,  ankle instability, often the result of repeated sprains or weakened ligaments, may cause the joint to feel wobbly or prone to giving way. Chronic ankle pain often causes difficulty in completing daily activities. If you have any of the above symptoms, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can start you on a comprehensive treatment plan.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Gabe Rodriguez, DPM from Sioux Falls Foot Specialist. 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 Sioux Falls, SD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Sesamoiditis is an inflammatory condition that affects the small sesamoid bones beneath the big toe joint, often causing pain at the ball of the foot. These bones act like pulleys, helping the tendons move smoothly and bear the stress of walking, running, or jumping. When repetitive pressure or trauma irritates the area, pain can develop beneath the big toe, especially when bending or pushing off the foot. Symptoms  of sesamoiditis include swelling, tenderness, and difficulty walking, sometimes leading to a limping gait to avoid pressure on the forefoot. Although sesamoiditis is not life-threatening, it can disrupt daily activities. A podiatrist can confirm the diagnosis, recommend footwear modifications, and may prescribe custom orthotics to relieve pressure on the joint. Further treatment such as immobilization or surgery may be necessary in severe cases. If you are experiencing pain beneath your big toe, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Gabe Rodriguez, DPM of Sioux Falls Foot Specialist. Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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

Pregnancy brings many physical changes, and the feet are no exception. As the body adapts to support added weight and shifting posture, the arches may flatten, and swelling can increase. These changes can lead to foot pain, instability, and discomfort with everyday activities. Wearing supportive and properly fitting shoes during pregnancy is essential for maintaining balance and preventing strain on the feet, ankles, and lower back. Footwear with good arch support, cushioning, and a wide toe box can help accommodate changes in foot size and shape. Choosing the right shoes can also reduce the risk of falls and improve overall mobility. If you are pregnant and are experiencing foot pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can guide you toward selecting supportive shoes that are right for you.

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 Gabe Rodriguez, DPM from Sioux Falls Foot Specialist. 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 Sioux Falls, SD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Debridement is the process of removing dead or infected tissue from foot wounds or ulcers to help the body restart the healing process. When unhealthy tissue is present, it can delay healing and increase the risk of infection. By clearing out this tissue, debridement encourages the growth of healthy skin, reduces the chance of complications, and may minimize long-term scarring. There are several types of debridement, including enzymatic, autolytic, mechanical, and sharp methods. The method chosen often depends on the severity and condition of the wound, as well as a patient’s overall health. In some cases, surgery may be required, particularly for deep or severely infected wounds that do not respond to conservative options. A podiatrist can evaluate the wound and determine the most effective way to promote healing. Podiatrists are trained to manage foot, toe, and ankle wounds safely and effectively, and they provide continued monitoring throughout recovery to help prevent further issues. If you have foot wounds or ulcers that are not healing properly, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and ongoing wound care.

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 Gabe Rodriguez, DPM from Sioux Falls Foot Specialist. 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 feel free to contact our office located in Sioux Falls, SD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.