Ankle pain can make everyday activities uncomfortable, from climbing stairs to standing at work. The ankle connects the foot and lower leg through bones, joints, and supporting tissues. Pain can begin after a sudden twist or develop from repeated strain. Sprains and strains are frequent causes of discomfort. Other causes include arthritis, irritated tendons, and changes in foot shape. Shoes that lack proper support can also place extra pressure on the ankle. The location of the pain and how it began can offer clues about the problem.

Symptoms vary depending on what is causing the discomfort. Some patients experience swelling, stiffness, or tenderness around the joint. Others notice warmth or redness, especially when inflammation is present. Pain near the back of the ankle can involve the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel. Pain along the inside of the ankle can involve another tendon that helps support the foot's arch. High or low arches can change how weight passes through the ankle. Persistent pain can affect balance and make movement more difficult. Severe swelling, changes in skin color, or trouble putting weight on the foot deserve prompt attention.

A podiatrist can identify the source of ankle pain through an examination of the foot and ankle. The evaluation includes checking movement, looking for swelling, and observing how you walk. X-rays or other tests can help when an injury or joint problem is suspected. Treatment depends on the cause and can include supportive insoles, an ankle brace, or changes to shoes. A podiatrist can recommend a guided exercise plan to improve strength and movement. Addressing the cause can reduce discomfort and help protect the ankle from further problems. If you have ankle pain, 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 Desiree Garzon, DPM from County Wide Foot, Ankle, & Wound 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 Boynton Beach . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A dislocated toe occurs when one of its joints is forced out of its normal position. This injury can happen suddenly and may make walking difficult. A dislocated toe often causes sharp pain right away. Swelling may develop quickly, and bruising can sometimes appear around the injured joint. The second toe is more commonly affected because of its position and exposure to pressure. Prompt evaluation is important because a dislocation can occur with a fracture or other damage.

Common causes include stubbing the toe, falling, or landing awkwardly during sports. A forceful impact can push the toe joint beyond its normal range. Risk factors include activities with frequent jumping, running, or quick direction changes. Wearing shoes that provide poor support may also increase the chance of injury. People with previous toe injuries may have additional risk. If the painful toe looks crooked, feels unstable, or cannot move normally, it should be checked by a podiatrist.

A podiatrist will examine the toe and may order an X-ray to check for a fracture or joint damage. Treatment usually begins with returning the joint to its normal position. This is called reduction and should not be attempted at home. The toe may then be protected with taping or another support while it heals. Rest and elevation can help control swelling. Your podiatrist will also explain when you can safely return to normal activities and footwear.

Recovery from a dislocated toe depends on the severity of the injury and whether other damage is present. Following treatment instructions can help protect the joint and lower the risk of ongoing pain or stiffness. Even when swelling improves, continued tenderness should not be ignored. If you have symptoms of a dislocated toe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions. 

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Desiree Garzon, DPM of County Wide Foot, Ankle, & Wound 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 Boynton Beach . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A foot wound is an opening, sore, or damaged area on the foot. Foot wounds can develop from pressure, friction, or poor circulation. Common types include diabetic foot ulcers, pressure sores, and infected wounds. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, or a wound that does not heal. People with diabetes, circulation problems, or repeated pressure may have a higher risk of serious wounds. Wearing poor footwear can also contribute to pressure and skin breakdown.

Treatment depends on the wound and the reason it developed. A podiatrist will examine the wound and assess circulation, sensation, and infection. Debridement may be performed to remove dead tissue, and this can help create a cleaner surface for healing. Pressure relief is also important. A podiatrist may recommend special footwear or padding, and regular dressing changes protect the area and support healing.

Regular wound care supports healing. A podiatrist may clean the wound and apply a dressing, and it may need to be changed regularly as directed. Antibiotics may be needed when a bacterial infection is present. Serious wounds may need additional care. Your podiatrist will monitor healing and adjust treatment. Keeping pressure off the wound can prevent further damage. Good blood sugar control can also support healing. Following care instructions can help protect the wound between visits.

Do not ignore a foot wound that becomes painful, swollen, or produces drainage. A wound that remains open or shows little improvement deserves attention. Early treatment can help reduce complications and support healing. A podiatrist can explain daily foot care and prevention. Check your feet regularly during daily activities and while wearing supportive shoes. If you have a foot wound, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and appropriate treatment solutions. 

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 Desiree Garzon, DPM from County Wide Foot, Ankle, & Wound Care. 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 contact our office located in Boynton Beach . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Morton’s neuroma is a painful nerve problem that commonly develops near the base of the third and fourth toes. The nerve becomes enlarged and inflamed, which can lead to burning pain, tingling, or numbness in the ball of the foot. Some people describe the sensation as feeling like something is stuck beneath the forefoot. Female runners may face an increased risk because running places repeated stress on the front of the foot. Women who regularly wear narrow, pointed-toe shoes or high heels may experience additional pressure that crowds the toes and irritates the nerve.

Active women with flat feet may be particularly prone to developing a neuroma. Symptoms often begin gradually but can become more intense as the nerve continues to enlarge. Running on hard surfaces can repeatedly stress the forefoot, while certain footwear can increase compression around the toes. Morton’s neuroma is not visible on an X-ray, so diagnosis depends largely on symptoms and a physical examination. A podiatrist may press along the affected area or perform a movement that produces a noticeable click. Identifying the problem early is important because continued nerve irritation can eventually cause lasting damage.

A podiatrist can evaluate forefoot pain and determine whether Morton’s neuroma may be causing a runner’s symptoms. Treatment depends on how far the condition has progressed. Professional options include custom orthotics or other supportive devices designed to reduce pressure on the irritated nerve. More advanced cases may require surgery to release or remove the affected nerve. A podiatrist can also evaluate foot structure and determine whether other factors, such as flat feet, are contributing to repeated compression. Persistent burning, tingling, or numbness should not be ignored when it begins interfering with running or daily movement. If you are experiencing ongoing pain in the ball of the foot that may indicate Morton’s neuroma, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Desiree Garzon, DPM of County Wide Foot, Ankle, & Wound Care. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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