An ankle sprain occurs when one or more of the ligaments that support the ankle joint are stretched or torn, often due to a sudden twist, fall, or misstep. This type of injury often happens during sporting activities or while walking on uneven ground. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, stiffness, and difficulty putting weight on the affected foot. Patients also may also feel coldness or numbness in the area. Ankle sprains are graded by severity. A grade 1 sprain involves minor stretching of ligaments, while a grade 2 sprain includes partial tears and increased discomfort.  A grade 3 sprain results in complete ligament tears, severe instability, and an inability to walk. People with high arches or weak ankle muscles may be more prone to this injury. Repeated sprains can lead to chronic ankle problems. A chiropodist can diagnose the severity of the ankle sprain and recommend bracing or immobilization, if needed. If you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for guidance.

When one or more ligaments in the ankle overstretch or tear due to injury, an ankle sprain occurs. If you would like to learn more about ankle sprains, please consult with Cynthia Chan, B.Sc., D.Ch from Healthy Advantage Foot & Orthotic Clinic. Our practitioner can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Symptoms of an ankle sprain vary depending on the severity of the injury, but may include: 

• Pain

• Swelling

• Bruising

• Tenderness

• Difficulty walking

• Ankle instability

• A reduced range of motion in the ankle 

Treatments for an ankle sprain may consist of: 

• Resting the injured ankle

• Applying ice

• Elevating the ankle

• Compressing the ankle

• Over-the-counter pain medications

• Ankle braces or other devices to take weight off of the ankle

• Ankle exercises 

• Surgery (in rare cases) 

It’s important for the sprained ankle to heal correctly and fully in order to avoid repeated injury. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Dancers place significant stress on the Achilles tendon, making it vulnerable to injury. Repetitive jumping, sudden directional changes, and excessive pointe work can strain the tendon, leading to inflammation or tears. Improper warm-ups, tight calf muscles, and overtraining increase the risk of injury. Wearing supportive footwear, strengthening the lower leg, and incorporating flexibility exercises help prevent strain. Tendonitis occurs when the tendon becomes inflamed, causing stiffness and pain, especially during movement. A rupture is a more severe injury, involving a partial or complete tear, often accompanied by a sharp pain and difficulty pushing off the foot. Early treatment and rest can aid recovery and reduce long-term damage. If you have pain in the lower back of the leg, it is suggested that you promptly contact a chiropodist.

Achilles tendonitis is a common injury of the Achilles tendon, a band of fibrous tissue that runs along the back of the lower leg. The Achilles tendon can also rupture, making it impossible to lift the foot. If you are suffering from heel or calf pain, please consult with Cynthia Chan, B.Sc., D.Ch from Healthy Advantage Foot & Orthotic Clinic. Our practitioner can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Causes of Achilles tendon injuries include: 

• Repetitive stress or overuse

• Sudden increase in activity levels

• High impact injury

• Calf muscle tightness or weakness

• Altered foot biomechanics

• Heel bone spurs

• Underlying medical conditions that weaken the tendon

Symptoms of an Achilles tendon injury include: 

• Heel and calf pain that worsens following exercise

• Chronic heel and calf pain

• Sudden pain in the back of the ankle or calf

• A popping or snapping sensation

• Thickened lump in the Achilles tendon

• Ankle and calf stiffness

• Decreased range of motion in the affected foot

• Swelling

• Difficulty walking 

Treatment

• Resting the affected leg

• Applying ice 

• Compressing the foot and ankle

• Elevating the injured leg 

• Wearing orthotics

• Low impact exercises

• Stretches

• Strengthening exercises 

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications

• Cortisone injections

• Surgery, if the tendon is ruptured 

Achilles tendon injuries can be very painful and lead to reduced mobility if left untreated. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout is a long-term form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a build-up of uric acid in the joints. When the body is unable to remove excess uric acid, sharp crystals can form, leading to sudden episodes of intense joint pain, swelling, and heat. The big toe is a common target of gout, causing  painful flare-ups that often occur at night and can last for several days. Even after the pain subsides, uric acid crystals may remain in the joint, which increases the risk of future attacks and long-term damage. If left untreated, gout can lead to joint stiffness, visible lumps under the skin known as tophi, and kidney issues. Effective treatment includes medication to manage pain and lower uric acid levels. A chiropodist can monitor joint health, advise on footwear to reduce strain, and provide ongoing care to improve foot function. If you are experiencing flare-ups from gout, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a chiropodist for help.

Gout is a painful form of arthritis that can affect anyone. Please consult with Cynthia Chan, B.Sc., D.Ch from Healthy Advantage Foot & Orthotic Clinic. Our practitioner will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Is Gout?

Gout is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. This type of arthritis is caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. When uric acid crystallizes in a joint, often the joint of the big toe, it can bring about a gout attack. 

Symptoms

Symptoms of gout include: 

• Sudden and severe pain

• Swelling

• Redness

• Warmth 

• Joint stiffness

• Joint deformity

Diagnosis

A chiropodist will ask questions about your personal and family medical history, followed by an examination of the affected joint. Laboratory tests and x-rays are sometimes ordered to determine if the inflammation is caused by something other than gout. A sample of fluid taken from your joint can show whether it contains uric acid. 

Treatment

Prescription medications or injections are used to treat the pain, swelling, and inflammation. Patients with chronic gout can also use behavioral modifications such as diet, exercise, and decreased intake of alcohol to help minimize the frequency of gout attacks. Foods and beverages that are high in purines should be avoided since purines are converted in the body to uric acid. If left untreated, this painful condition can leave your joint permanently damaged and swollen.  

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