Ankle sprains are a common injury among volleyball players due to sudden jumps, quick lateral movements, and unexpected landings. These movements can stretch or tear the ligaments that support the ankle, causing pain and instability. Symptoms of an ankle sprain include swelling, bruising, tenderness, difficulty bearing weight, and a feeling of the ankle giving way during activity. If left untreated, repeated sprains can lead to chronic instability and long-term joint problems. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity of the sprain, recommend appropriate treatment such as rest or bracing, and provide guidance on proper footwear or supportive devices to prevent future injuries. If you have  ankle pain or instability after volleyball activity, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist to restore stability, reduce pain, and protect your ankle for a safe return to the sport.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact One of our podiatrists from Diagnostic Foot Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Houston, TX, Houston, TX, and Bryan, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A puncture wound to the foot occurs when a sharp object pierces the skin and creates a small, but potentially deep injury. Common causes include stepping on nails, glass splinters, or sharp debris. These wounds can trap bacteria deep within the tissue, which increases the risk of infection. People with diabetes, peripheral neuropathy, or vascular disease should not attempt to self-treat puncture wounds because reduced sensation and circulation can delay healing and hide serious complications. Prompt podiatric care is essential. A podiatrist can properly clean and evaluate the wound, check for foreign material, assess circulation, and provide appropriate treatment to prevent infection. If you have a puncture wound on your foot, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, reducing the risk of serious complications. 

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 One of our podiatrists from Diagnostic Foot Specialists. Our doctors 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 offices located in Houston, TX, Houston, TX, and Bryan, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Swelling in the feet develops when fluid collects in the soft tissues surrounding the ankles and toes. A sprain or fracture often causes blood and fluid to move into the injured area as part of the healing process, possibly leading to puffiness and discomfort. Edema can also cause swollen feet, especially when fluid gathers around the lower legs due to gravity. Long hours of standing, sitting in one position, or wearing shoes with inadequate support can contribute to swelling. Medical conditions, such as gout in the big toe, an infection in the foot, or circulation problems, can also result in swollen feet. A podiatrist can examine the feet, identify the cause of the swelling, and recommend treatment to improve comfort and protect long-term foot function. If you notice abnormal swelling in your feet or ankles, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for expert guidance.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact One of our podiatrists of Diagnostic Foot Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Houston, TX, Houston, TX, and Bryan, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot blisters are small pockets of fluid that form on the skin of the feet, often as a result of friction or pressure. They commonly develop from wearing poorly fitted shoes, engaging in extended physical activity, or sustaining burns such as a sunburn or frostbite. Symptoms include redness, swelling, pain, and fluid filled bumps that can make walking uncomfortable. Risk factors include moisture, high activity levels, abnormal foot shape, and sensitive skin. While most blisters generally heal naturally, improper care can lead to infection or prolonged discomfort. A podiatrist can provide safe treatment, protect the skin, address underlying causes, and recommend footwear or other protective measures. If you develop frequent foot blisters, or if they become infected, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can guide you toward effective relief and prevention solutions.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact One of our podiatrists of Diagnostic Foot Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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