Ankle fractures in seniors are often caused by falls, missteps, or weakened bones from osteoporosis. These injuries can significantly impact mobility, independence, and overall confidence, making individuals feel older than they are. A fractured ankle restricts walking, standing, and daily activities, often leading to reliance on others for basic tasks. Even six months after the initial injury, stiffness, pain, and reduced strength can persist, limiting mobility and affecting quality of life. Delayed or improper treatment may result in chronic pain, arthritis, or long-term instability. Early intervention by a podiatrist is essential for proper diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation. This type of doctor can provide support through casting, bracing, and ongoing care to promote optimal healing and prevent complications. If you are a senior and have sustained an ankle fracture, try not to let it define your independence. It is suggested that you see a podiatrist early on for expert care and recovery support.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact our doctors from Foot & Ankle Center of Oklahoma. Our doctors 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

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
•  Swelling around the area
•  Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

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 Oklahoma City and Yukon, OK . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Football and soccer players are prone to various ankle injuries due to the fast-paced, high-impact nature of the sport. A common injury is a lateral ligament sprain, which occurs when the ligaments on the outside of the ankle stretch or tear, often from sudden twists or turns. Osteochondral lesions, which involve damage to the cartilage or bone in the ankle joint, can result from repeated trauma or heavy impacts. Ankle impingement occurs when soft tissues or bone structures in the joint become compressed, leading to pain and restricted movement. Similarly, soft tissue impingement happens when tendons or other tissues become pinched within the ankle, causing inflammation and discomfort. Proper conditioning, warm-up exercises, and wearing appropriate footwear can help prevent these injuries. If you play football or soccer and have sustained a foot or ankle injury, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat various foot conditions.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact our doctors of Foot & Ankle Center of Oklahoma. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Oklahoma City and Yukon, OK . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Barefoot walking offers many advantages for children, particularly in helping them develop essential skills for movement and coordination. By walking without shoes, children strengthen the muscles and tendons in their feet, which supports their ability to walk properly as they grow. The natural movement of the feet also promotes better alignment of the body, which can lead to improved posture. In addition to the physical benefits, barefoot walking supports brain and nervous system development. The soles of the feet are rich in sensory receptors that help send signals to the brain, enhancing sensory processing and motor function. This sensory feedback helps children improve their balance, coordination, and spatial awareness, contributing to cognitive development. If you would like to learn about additional benefits from having your child walk barefoot, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can monitor your child’s foot health, and discuss whether this is a viable option for your lifestyle.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact our doctors of Foot & Ankle Center of Oklahoma. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Oklahoma City and Yukon, OK . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis is a condition tied closely to the biomechanics of the foot. The plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue under the foot, helps support the arch and absorbs impact during walking. It starts at the heel bone and fans out toward the toes. When walking, this tissue stretches and recoils, maintaining foot stability and aiding motion. Improper gait, like uneven pressure on the foot, can strain the fascia. Over time, this strain may lead to tiny tears, causing pain and inflammation. The body repairs these tears with collagen, but repetitive strain may disrupt proper healing, leading to chronic pain. Biomechanical issues, such as flat feet or tight calf muscles, can worsen the problem. Proper treatment, including stretching, wearing supportive footwear, and more, helps. If you have ongoing heel pain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist to identify the underlying cause, and get expert care

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 our doctors from Foot & Ankle Center of Oklahoma. Our doctors 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?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

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

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

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 Oklahoma City and Yukon, OK . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.