An injury that causes pain, swelling, and difficulty moving may be an ankle sprain or a fracture. A sprain occurs when the ligaments are stretched or torn. These strong bands of tissue connect bones and help keep the ankle stable. A fracture is a crack or break in an ankle bone. Either injury can result from a fall, sudden twist, or hard impact. Since an accident can damage both bones and ligaments, symptoms alone may not identify the injury.

Sprains and fractures can both cause pain, bruising, and swelling. Pain from a sprain is usually centered in the softer tissue around the joint, while fracture pain can be strongest directly over a bone. A cracking sound, unusual angle, or exposed bone can indicate a fracture. Some patients with a sprain can put weight on the ankle, but walking can be painful. A fracture can make standing or walking impossible. However, the ability to move the ankle or bear weight does not rule out a broken bone. Because these signs can overlap, a professional examination is important. An injury that is not treated correctly can lead to lasting pain, weakness, or ankle instability.

A podiatrist asks how the injury happened, examines the painful area, and checks the ankle’s movement. X-rays can show most fractures and reveal whether the bones remain properly aligned. Other imaging tests may be needed to diagnose a sprain and determine the extent of ligament damage. Treatment depends on the location and severity of the injury. A podiatrist can stabilize the ankle with a brace, splint, or cast. Severe fractures can require surgery to restore the position of the bones. A major ligament tear can also require surgery when the ankle remains unstable. Follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to monitor healing and adjust the treatment plan. If you have injured your ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially 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 tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• 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.

A toddler’s flat feet can worry parents, especially when their footprints show little or no arch. In many cases, a toddler’s feet still contain soft tissue that hides the arch while the bones, muscles, and ligaments continue to develop. Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that support the joints. As children grow, the arch becomes easier to see. Even so, some toddlers develop symptoms that deserve professional attention. Warning signs include foot pain, frequent tripping, or difficulty keeping up with other children. Some toddlers also show uneven shoe wear or seem tired after short periods of play. A podiatrist can determine whether flat feet are part of normal development or whether another condition is affecting the way the feet function.

A podiatrist begins with a thorough medical history and a careful examination while the child is sitting, standing, and walking. Watching a toddler walk helps reveal whether the foot remains flexible or appears stiff. The podiatrist also checks foot alignment, ankle movement, and the position of the heel. Parents can describe pain, changes in activity, or repeated ankle sprains that help guide the evaluation. Imaging, like an X-ray, is not necessary for every child. It is used when pain is unusual, movement is limited, or the podiatrist suspects an underlying bone problem. This careful approach helps identify toddlers who need closer monitoring and those who could benefit from further treatment.

Most toddlers with flexible flat feet do not require surgery. However, children with ongoing pain, reduced function, or a rigid foot shape benefit from prompt evaluation. A podiatrist can recommend supportive shoes or inserts, monitor changes in foot development, and determine whether additional testing is needed. If surgery becomes necessary, it is reserved for carefully selected cases after a thorough examination and accompanying imaging studies. The goal is to improve foot function, relieve pain, and support healthy growth. If your child has problems related to flat feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. David Ungar from Personal Foot Care. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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.

A foot stress fracture is a tiny crack in a bone caused by repeated strain. Unlike a sudden break from one hard impact, it develops when the bone cannot recover between activities. Runners and dancers can face a higher risk of stress fractures. A fast increase in exercise can also be a factor. Shoes that lack proper support and hard training surfaces can add to the strain. Stress fractures usually affect bones in the front or middle of the foot. Pain may begin as a mild ache during activity, then become sharper.

Other signs include swelling, tenderness, and pain when pressing one spot. The discomfort can ease with rest, but often returns when the foot carries weight. Some patients also notice bruising or trouble walking. These symptoms deserve attention because continuing activity can make the crack worse. A podiatrist will ask how the pain began and examine the sore area. The doctor may order an X-ray or other type of digital imaging to diagnose the injury. A scan can help to confirm the extent and severity of the injury, as well as guide treatment.

Treatment depends on the bone involved and how serious the crack is. A podiatrist can order a walking boot, cast, or supportive device to protect the injured area. This foot doctor can also recommend activity changes and create a plan for a gradual return to exercise. Follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to check healing and adjust the plan. Most stress fractures heal without surgery when they receive early care and enough protection. A podiatrist can also review foot structure, training habits, and shoe support to lower the chance of another injury. If you have symptoms of a foot 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 Dr. David Ungar from Personal Foot Care. 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 office located in Farmington, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet, especially between the toes and along the soles. Also known as tinea pedis, this condition develops when fungi called dermatophytes grow in warm, damp environments. Athlete’s foot can affect anyone, not just athletes, and it often spreads through contact with contaminated floors, shoes, or shared surfaces. 

Common symptoms of athlete’s foot include itching, peeling skin, and cracking between the toes. Some people may notice a scaly rash on the bottom or sides of the feet, while others may experience blisters or painful skin breaks. Symptoms may become more noticeable after wearing tight shoes or spending long periods in warm, sweaty footwear.

Several factors can increase the risk of developing athlete’s foot. Walking barefoot in public areas such as locker rooms, swimming pools, and communal showers can expose the feet to fungal organisms. Wearing non-breathable shoes, keeping feet damp, and having excessive foot sweating can also create conditions where fungus thrives. Not changing socks regularly may also contribute. People with a weakened immune system, certain medical conditions, or a history of recurring foot infections are at a higher risk of developing athlete’s foot.

Athlete’s foot is caused by the overgrowth of fungi that feed on dead skin cells. The infection spreads easily because these fungi can survive in moist environments and transfer from one person to another. Prevention includes keeping feet clean and dry, wearing moisture-wicking socks, and choosing breathable footwear. Avoiding sharing shoes or towels also helps. Treatment may include antifungal medications, proper foot hygiene, and professional evaluation when symptoms persist or worsen. A podiatrist can help identify the specific cause of foot irritation and recommend effective treatment options to restore healthy skin. If you have symptoms of athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. David Ungar from Personal Foot Care.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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 and ankle needs.