Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments supporting the ankle become stretched or torn. Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that connect bones and help keep joints stable. This injury typically happens when the ankle suddenly rolls or twists beyond its normal range of motion. Common symptoms include pain, swelling, and bruising around the affected joint. Some people also experience difficulty placing weight on the injured ankle. Recovery time depends on the severity of the injury. Mild sprains often heal within one to two weeks, while more serious injuries may require several weeks. Without proper rehabilitation, the ankle may remain weak or unstable, increasing the risk of repeated injuries.

Rehabilitation exercises play an important role in ankle sprain recovery by restoring flexibility, strength, and balance. Early rehabilitation focuses on improving movement and reducing stiffness as the injured ligaments heal. Professionally guided exercises may include ankle circles, ankle pumps, and gentle calf stretches. As movement improves, strengthening exercises help rebuild the muscles that support the ankle joint. Resistance-band exercises and heel raises gradually improve ankle strength and stability. Balance training becomes important as recovery progresses because it helps improve coordination and reduce the risk of future sprains. The timing of these exercises depends on pain levels, joint stability, and the severity of the injury. A structured rehabilitation program supports a gradual return to normal activities.

A podiatrist evaluates ankle sprains by examining joint stability, movement, and the extent of ligament damage. X-rays may be recommended to rule out fractures. Treatment may involve supportive braces to protect the ankle during healing. A podiatrist also develops an appropriate rehabilitation plan based on the injury and recovery progress. Follow-up evaluations help determine when strengthening and balance exercises should advance. Proper rehabilitation reduces the likelihood of chronic ankle instability and repeated injuries. If you are experiencing ankle pain or instability after an injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact one of our doctors from New Jersey and New York. 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 are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

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

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Little Silver, NJ and New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care 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 one of our doctors of New Jersey and New York. Our doctors 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 offices located in Little Silver, NJ and New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Forefoot surgery refers to procedures performed on the front portion of the foot, including the toes and metatarsals. It may be suggested when pain or deformity does not improve with conservative treatment. Common reasons include bunions, hammertoes, and certain fractures. Symptoms may include persistent pain, swelling, or difficulty walking. A podiatrist evaluates the foot and may use X-rays before recommending treatment.

Several types of forefoot surgery are available, and the procedure depends on the condition being treated. Bunion surgery can realign the big toe and correct bone positioning. Hammertoe surgery may straighten a bent toe and improve function. Metatarsal procedures can address painful pressure beneath the forefoot. Surgery may also repair fractures or remove damaged tissue when appropriate. Risk factors include family history, foot structure, and previous injury. Poorly fitting shoes can aggravate forefoot problems. During surgery, the podiatrist uses a procedure selected for the diagnosis. Depending on the condition, this may involve making an incision, realigning a bone, or correcting soft tissue. Afterward, healing begins with protecting the surgical area and controlling swelling. The podiatrist may recommend a surgical shoe, limited weight-bearing, and elevation. Follow-up visits monitor healing and may include X-rays. Gradual return to normal activity is based on healing progress and medical guidance.

Forefoot surgery can provide an option when structural problems interfere with comfort and mobility. Recovery varies according to the procedure and health factors. Patients can support healing by following wound-care instructions, protecting the foot, and attending scheduled appointments. Your podiatrist will explain what to expect before surgery and provide aftercare instructions. If you have forefoot pain or a condition that may require surgery, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if this surgery is right for this.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our doctors of New Jersey and New York. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Little Silver, NJ and New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Achilles tendonitis develops when the band connecting the calf muscles to the heel becomes irritated. This tendon helps lift the heel when walking, running, or jumping. Pain can affect the middle of the tendon or the area where it attaches to the heel bone. Symptoms include aching or burning behind the ankle, morning stiffness, and tenderness. Mild swelling can also appear after activity. The discomfort usually begins gradually and can make climbing stairs, running, or pushing off the foot difficult.

Repeated strain is a leading cause of Achilles tendonitis. Runners can develop it after increasing mileage too quickly, adding hills, or changing their routine. Tight calf muscles and limited ankle movement place added stress on the tendon. Risk also rises with age because tendons become less flexible. Flat feet, poor running form, and shoes that lack proper support can contribute to the problem. A bone spur near the heel can rub against the tendon and irritate its attachment. Continuing activity despite pain can worsen the damage and prolong recovery.

A podiatrist can examine the foot and ankle, review how symptoms began, and check the tendon for swelling or tenderness. The examination can reveal problems with foot structure or movement that place extra strain on the area. Imaging tests can help rule out a tear or identify a bone spur. Treatment includes activity changes, heel lifts, or custom orthotics that improve foot alignment. A podiatrist can recommend supportive shoes and prescribe a brace or walking boot when more protection is required. Treatment is based on the location and severity of the irritation and the patient’s activity level. Most patients improve without surgery, but severe tendon damage can require it. Early care can reduce strain and support a safer return to normal activity. If you have symptoms of Achilles tendonitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our doctors of New Jersey and New York. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Little Silver, NJ and New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.