Have you noticed discoloration of your toenails? Have they become thickened or brittle? If so, you may be experiencing symptoms of a fungal nail infection. For some, having a fungal nail can be embarrassing. Overcome your embarrassment, and get treated.
An ankle fracture can leave lasting effects on the way a person walks, even after the bone has healed. Limited joint movement, lingering stiffness, and changes in muscle strength may cause the body to adapt in ways that alter natural stride patterns. Some individuals shorten their steps, place less weight on the injured side, or roll the foot differently to avoid discomfort. These adjustments can strain other joints, such as the knees, hips, and lower back, over time. Restoring a balanced gait often involves targeted exercises to improve flexibility, rebuild strength, and retrain walking mechanics. Wearing supportive footwear or orthotics may also help distribute pressure more evenly across the foot. Addressing gait changes early can prevent secondary problems and improve long-term mobility. If walking feels awkward or uncomfortable after an ankle fracture, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for evaluation and guidance.
Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Vincent, Vess from Fourth River Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.
When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.
Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle
If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh, White Oak, and McKeesport,PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe as the tip of the toe shifts inward toward the others. Common causes include genetics, wearing tight or narrow shoes, arthritis, and foot structure abnormalities. Symptoms typically involve pain, swelling, redness, and difficulty walking, along with visible changes in foot shape. Bunions can feel sore, stiff, or even numb, and may worsen over time, if left untreated. A podiatrist can help by evaluating the severity of the bunion and developing a personalized treatment plan. Options include footwear recommendations, custom orthotics, pain relief strategies, or, in more advanced cases, bunion surgery. Early intervention is key to preventing long-term discomfort and deformity. If you have a painful bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.
If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Vincent, Vess of Fourth River Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is a Bunion?
Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.
Causes
Symptoms
In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh, White Oak, and McKeesport,PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Wearing flip-flops or sandals for extended periods of time during summer can harm the feet, especially when these shoes lack adequate support and protection. Thin soles with minimal cushioning place excess pressure on the heels and arches, increasing the chance of pain or inflammation in the bottom of the foot. Many styles offer little to no arch support, which may contribute to pain associated with flat feet or heel strain. Straps that rub against the skin can lead to blisters, while loose-fitting designs may cause instability that raises the risk of twisted ankles. Peep-toe sandals that squeeze the toes can worsen bunion pain or make existing joint problems more noticeable. Open designs also leave the feet vulnerable to cuts or scrapes. A podiatrist can assess foot alignment, recommend appropriate footwear, and provide treatment to relieve symptoms caused by wearing shoes that lack adequate support. If your flip flops are causing you to have foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment options.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Vincent, Vess from Fourth River Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
Diagnosis
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh, White Oak, and McKeesport,PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Plantar fasciitis is a common source of heel pain that affects people of all ages. It begins when the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot becomes irritated or strained. This often results in sharp pain near the heel, especially in the morning or after long periods of inactivity. Contributing factors may include high arches, flat feet, tight calf muscles, or wearing unsupportive footwear. Left untreated, plantar fasciitis can become a persistent issue that limits mobility and daily comfort. Stretching, wearing supportive shoes, and rest are early steps to reduce symptoms. However, when pain continues or interferes with activity, professional care is important. A podiatrist can provide custom orthotics, therapies, and additional treatment tailored to the individual’s needs. If you are experiencing heel discomfort or changes in your step, a podiatric evaluation is suggested.
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Vincent, Vess from Fourth River Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.
Prevention
There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh, White Oak, and McKeesport,PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
