Sports-related foot and ankle injuries can affect athletes at every level and interfere with training or competition. The foot and ankle absorb force, support body weight, and help the body change direction. Injuries can occur suddenly or develop from repeated stress. Ankle sprains are among the injuries seen in sports and can happen when the ankle rolls beyond its normal range. Stress fractures and Achilles tendon injuries can also affect active patients. Pain, swelling, and reduced movement can make it difficult to run or return to a sport safely.

The type of injury depends on the sport, playing surface, and demands placed on the foot or ankle. Repeated jumping and running places stress on bones and soft tissues. Quick changes in direction increase strain around the ankle. Some injuries involve ligaments, which are strong bands of tissue that connect bones. Others affect tendons, which connect muscles to bones. A careful evaluation is important because symptoms can overlap. What feels like a minor sprain can sometimes involve another structure or a more significant injury.

A podiatrist evaluates sports-related foot and ankle injuries by examining the painful area, movement, and stability. The exam also considers how the injury happened and which activities increase symptoms. Treatment depends on the injured structure and the severity of the problem. A podiatrist can provide immobilization or supportive devices when appropriate. Treatment can also include guided rehsabilitation exercises to restore strength and movement. A podiatrist also guides a safe return to activity and addresses factors that could increase the chance of another injury. If you have symptoms of a sports-related foot or ankle injury, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

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 Matthew McQuaid, DPM from Lake Mendocino Podiatry. 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 offices located in Lakeport and Ukiah, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Bone spurs are areas of extra bone that can form near a joint. In the foot, they often develop around the big-toe joint, heel, or ankle. A bone spur does not always cause symptoms. However, it can press against nearby tissue, restrict movement, and make wearing shoes uncomfortable. Pain, stiffness, or a hard bump can interfere with walking. Arthritis, injury, and repeated stress can contribute to their formation. A podiatrist can examine the foot and use X-rays to confirm the spur's location and size.

Bone spur surgery is usually considered when pain continues despite treatment or when joint movement is severely limited. The procedure depends on the spur's location and the condition of the joint. For a spur on the big-toe joint, the podiatrist may remove the extra bone through an incision. The podiatrist may also remove damaged tissue around the joint. In advanced cases, another procedure may be necessary to stabilize or realign the joint. Before recommending surgery, the podiatrist reviews circulation, nerve function, and overall health. These factors help determine whether the foot is likely to heal properly.

Recovery varies with the procedure. After bone spur removal, care includes resting the foot, using a special shoe, and keeping the incision clean. The podiatrist provides instructions about weight-bearing and a safe return to regular shoes. Follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to check healing, remove stitches, and monitor joint movement. Possible problems include infection, delayed healing, and continued pain. Stiffness or another spur can develop later. Patients should report redness, drainage, or severe pain. Follow-up care can protect the incision and help the foot regain movement. The goal of surgery is to reduce pain and improve function, although results depend on the amount of joint damage. If you have symptoms of a bone spur on the big toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Matthew McQuaid, DPM of Lake Mendocino Podiatry. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Repeated pressure on the feet and ankles can create tiny cracks in a bone called stress fractures. They differ from breaks caused by one sudden injury. Stress fractures develop when a bone cannot recover from repeated force. Runners, dancers, and athletes who suddenly increase training face a greater risk. People who spend long hours standing or walking can also be affected. Bones weakened by low bone density are more vulnerable. Stress fractures frequently occur in weight-bearing bones of the foot and lower leg. Pain usually begins in one spot and worsens with activity. Swelling and tenderness can develop near the injured bone.

Ignoring these symptoms can allow a small crack to worsen. Patients may begin to limp or have pain during daily activities. A podiatrist will ask about exercise, work demands, and changes in activity. The examination includes checking the area for swelling, tenderness, and changes in movement. X-rays may not show a stress fracture because the crack can be too small. An MRI scan or other imaging test can provide a clearer view. The podiatrist also looks for factors that place extra stress on the bone. These include foot structure, an uneven walking pattern, or shoes that lack proper support.

Treatment protects the bone so it can heal. A podiatrist may recommend a walking boot, a stiff-soled shoe, or crutches to reduce pressure. The choice depends on the fracture's location and severity. The podiatrist can explain which activities to limit and when a return is safe. Custom orthotics may improve pressure distribution and lower the risk of injury. Surgery may be needed when a fracture is unstable, has shifted, or is not healing. Follow-up visits help track healing and guide treatment changes. Returning to exercise too soon can reopen the crack or cause a complete break. If you have symptoms of a foot or ankle stress fracture, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Matthew McQuaid, DPM from Lake Mendocino Podiatry. 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 offices located in Lakeport and Ukiah, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A lifetime of standing and walking can place stress on the feet. As people age, the feet can become wider, while the arches may become lower. Skin can grow thinner and drier, and toenails can become thicker. Reduced circulation or loss of feeling can make injuries harder to notice. Arthritis can also cause stiffness in the toes, feet, and ankles. These changes can affect balance and make walking less comfortable. Regular care from a podiatrist helps older adults address concerns before they limit mobility or lead to complications.

A podiatrist can examine the feet for corns, calluses, and skin damage. The examination can identify fungal nail infections, wounds, or signs of poor blood flow. Patients with diabetes need careful monitoring because even a small sore can become infected. A podiatrist can trim thick toenails and reduce painful areas of hardened skin. Treatment can also address heel pain, flat feet, and arthritis-related discomfort. Custom orthotics can support weakened arches and improve how pressure is spread across the feet. A podiatrist can also recommend shoes with the proper fit, cushioning, and support for a patient’s needs.

Foot changes should not be dismissed as a normal part of aging. Pain, swelling, or numbness deserve professional attention. Changes in skin color also require care. The same is true for cuts that do not heal and sudden changes in walking or balance. A podiatrist can assess joint movement and foot structure. The evaluation can also include circulation and nerve function. X-rays or other tests can help identify arthritis, fractures, or hidden damage. Based on the findings, the podiatrist can create a treatment plan designed to relieve discomfort, protect the feet, and support safer movement. Routine visits are especially valuable for patients with diabetes, poor circulation, or a history of foot wounds. If you have foot problems related to aging, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Matthew McQuaid, DPM from Lake Mendocino Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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