When the ankle suddenly feels weak or rolls unexpectedly, it is often a sign of instability in the joint. One of the main causes of ankle instability is previous injuries, especially repeated sprains that stretch or tear the ligaments that hold the bones together. These ligaments can become loose, making the ankle more likely to roll or collapse. Muscle weakness and reduced balance can also play a role, as the body may not react quickly enough to keep the joint in place. Some patients feel sudden pain that makes the ankle give out, even when the joint is not fully loose. A podiatrist can evaluate the ankle, assess how it moves, and use imaging to identify damage or alignment issues. Treatment options include bracing, custom orthotics, or surgery to restore strength and stability. If you are experiencing ankle weakness, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. David Ungar from Personal Foot Care. 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 Farmington, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar warts are growths on the bottom of the foot caused by a virus that enters through small breaks in the skin. They can feel like stepping on a pebble and may become painful with pressure. Treatment depends on size, number, and how long they have been present. Over-the-counter options may help in early cases, but stubborn warts often need professional care. A podiatrist may use methods such as freezing, topical medications that break down the tissue, or gentle removal of thickened skin to reduce discomfort and improve treatment success. Sometimes more than one visit is needed, as these growths can be persistent. Keeping the area clean, dry, and protected can also support healing. If you notice a painful spot on the bottom of your foot that does not go away, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate care.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. David Ungar from Personal Foot Care. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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

Fungal infections can cause the toenails to become thickened, discolored, and brittle over time. The toenail may appear yellow, white, or even darkened, and its surface can look uneven or crumbly. Some patients notice a buildup of debris beneath the nail or a separation from the nail bed. While the condition is often painless at first, it can lead to discomfort as the toenail thickens or presses against footwear. Fungal nails develop when fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, such as sweaty feet. Minor toenail injuries or a weakened immune system are other factors. A podiatrist can confirm the diagnosis through examination and testing if needed. Treatment includes topical or oral antifungal medication, as well as professional toenail care to reduce thickness and improve appearance. Addressing the infection early can help prevent its spread to other nails. If you are dealing with fungal toenails, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. David Ungar of Personal Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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

Toe deformities are structural changes that alter the normal position of the toes. Common examples include hammertoe, mallet toe, and claw toe. These conditions often develop as a result of long-term pressure from tight or narrow shoes. Muscle imbalance can also play a role. This occurs when some muscles and tendons become tighter or weaker than others, pulling the toe joints into abnormal positions. Nerve damage may reduce control of toe movement and lead to joint changes. Foot injuries, joint disease, poor circulation, and inherited foot shape can also contribute. Changes in foot mechanics, such as flat feet or bunions, may increase strain on the toes. A podiatrist can examine the foot, evaluate joint movement, and identify the cause. Treatment includes supportive devices, padding, or procedures to improve alignment and reduce discomfort. If you have a toe deformity that is causing discomfort, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. David Ungar of Personal Foot Care. 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 Farmington, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.