A broken ankle occurs when one or more bones around the ankle joint crack or break. An ankle can break after a fall, a sudden twist, or a forceful impact. The outer ankle bone, called the lateral malleolus, is the area most frequently affected. Symptoms include immediate pain, swelling, and bruising. Patients may also notice tenderness or difficulty placing weight on the injured foot. Numbness, cool skin, or a visible change in the ankle’s shape can signal a serious injury. In severe cases, a broken bone can push through the skin and require urgent medical attention.

Ankle fractures are described as stable or unstable. With a stable fracture, the broken pieces remain in their proper positions. Many breaks involving only the outer ankle are stable and do not require surgery. In an unstable fracture, the bone pieces shift and can disturb the joint’s normal alignment. A podiatrist examines the ankle and checks the foot for changes in sensation, temperature, and blood flow. X-rays reveal where the bone broke and whether the pieces have moved. Additional imaging can provide a closer view of a complicated break. It can also show any damage to the ligaments and tendons that support the ankle.

Treatment is based on the break’s location, alignment, and severity. A podiatrist can place a stable fracture in a cast or walking boot to protect the injured area. The podiatrist also gives clear instructions about when the patient can safely place weight on the foot. Follow-up X-rays track healing and confirm that the bones remain properly aligned. An unstable or open fracture can require surgery to restore alignment and secure the damaged bones. Regular examinations help identify poor healing, continued swelling, or joint changes that could cause arthritis. A podiatrist can also guide a safe return to work, exercise, and other daily activities. If you have broken your ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . 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 Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Daily diabetic foot care plays an important role in protecting foot health and lowering the risk of serious complications. Diabetes can damage nerves, reducing the ability to feel pain, heat, or pressure. It can also reduce blood flow, making it harder for the skin and other tissues to heal after an injury. Because of these changes, even a small blister, cut, or area of rubbing can become a serious problem. Changes in foot shape, like hammertoes or bunions, can create extra pressure while walking. Shoes that provide proper support and fit correctly help reduce irritation. Paying close attention to the feet every day helps identify changes before they become more difficult to treat.

A podiatrist carefully examines the skin, nails, circulation, and foot structure to look for early warning signs of trouble. Regular visits help identify thick calluses, pressure points, and small areas of skin damage before they develop into foot ulcers. A podiatrist also checks for changes in feeling and monitors reduced circulation that can slow healing. Custom orthotics help spread pressure more evenly across the feet. Professional trimming of thick nails and calluses lowers the chance of skin injury. Guidance about choosing shoes with proper support and enough room for the toes also helps reduce harmful pressure while walking.

Daily attention to diabetic foot health, combined with regular podiatry care, greatly lowers the chance of infection and tissue damage. Prompt evaluation of redness, swelling, or drainage allows treatment before the problem becomes more serious. Regular examinations also help track changes in circulation and foot shape that can lead to open sores. Early care supports comfort, mobility, and confidence with every step. Consistent monitoring by a podiatrist helps protect the feet and reduce the risk of ulcers, infection, and possible limb loss. If you have foot problems related to diabetes, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to  manage this serious condition. 

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Vascular testing of the lower limbs helps evaluate how well blood moves through the arteries and veins of the legs and feet. These assessments are often recommended when patients experience symptoms such as leg cramping, slow healing wounds, skin discoloration, numbness, or pain while walking. Poor circulation can affect tissue health and increase the risk of serious complications, particularly in individuals with diabetes or other chronic medical conditions. A podiatrist may use non-invasive testing to measure circulation, compare blood pressure in different areas of the limbs, or assess how effectively blood reaches the feet. In some cases, additional imaging may be recommended for a closer look at the blood vessels. Identifying circulation problems early can help guide treatment decisions and improve healing outcomes. These evaluations are especially important when wounds are not improving as expected, or symptoms suggest reduced blood supply. If you notice signs of poor circulation in your legs or feet, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Vascular testing plays an important part in diagnosing disease like peripheral artery disease. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, or diabetes, consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Vascular Testing?

Vascular testing checks for how well blood circulation is in the veins and arteries. This is most often done to determine and treat a patient for peripheral artery disease (PAD), stroke, and aneurysms. Podiatrists utilize vascular testing when a patient has symptoms of PAD or if they believe they might. If a patient has diabetes, a podiatrist may determine a vascular test to be prudent to check for poor blood circulation.

How Is it Conducted?

Most forms of vascular testing are non-invasive. Podiatrists will first conduct a visual inspection for any wounds, discoloration, and any abnormal signs prior to a vascular test.

 The most common tests include:

• Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) examination
• Doppler examination
• Pedal pulses

These tests are safe, painless, and easy to do. Once finished, the podiatrist can then provide a diagnosis and the best course for treatment.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The Achilles tendon is the strong band of tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It plays an important role while walking, running, and pushing off the foot. When this tendon becomes irritated, stretched, or torn, it can make everyday movement painful. Achilles tendon injuries can develop from repeated stress on the tendon or from a sudden movement that places too much force on it. The risk also increases when the calf muscles are tight or when wearing shoes that lack proper support. Pain usually develops at the back of the ankle or just above the heel. Swelling, stiffness, and tenderness also are common. Some patients notice pain at the beginning of activity that becomes worse after continued movement. A complete tear can cause a popping sensation followed by severe pain and weakness.

A podiatrist performs a thorough examination to identify the type and severity of the injury. The evaluation includes checking the foot and ankle for swelling, tenderness, and range of motion. The podiatrist also observes how the patient stands and walks to identify changes caused by the injured tendon. Imaging tests, like ultrasound or MRI scans, provide a clear view of the tendon and help confirm a partial or complete tear. Finding the injury early helps prevent additional damage and allows treatment to begin before the condition becomes more serious.

Treatment depends on the condition of the tendon and the patient's activity level. A podiatrist develops a treatment plan that reduces stress on the tendon while helping restore strength and flexibility. Care includes custom orthotics to improve foot support and reduce strain on the tendon. It also includes guided stretching and strengthening exercises.  If you have symptoms of an Achilles tendon injuries, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment solutions.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . 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 Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.