The main job of the ankle joint is to help you move your foot up and down. The ankle joint connects the leg and foot and is basically held together with tendons and ligaments. These are strong bands of tissue that provide stability. A torn ligament in the ankle can be caused by a twisting action, which stretches the ankle beyond its normal range. There are three categories of ligament tears, which depend on the severity of the injury. A grade 1 injury is deemed a minor, or micro, tear of the ligament. A grade 2 injury refers to a partial tear and may result in a loosening of the tissue. For these two types of injuries, rest and a type of brace or immobilizing device may be needed. A grade 3 injury is a complete tear of the ligament, however, and it almost always calls for surgical intervention to correct it. A podiatrist can determine the severity of the injury through imaging tests and based on that information prescribe the appropriate treatment program. For more information about a torn ankle ligament, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Michael A. Wood from Foot Health Institute. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

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

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Lansing, and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Hyperhidrosis of the feet, characterized by excessive sweating, can lead to significant discomfort and social embarrassment This condition arises due to overactive sweat glands in the feet, resulting in persistent moisture, unpleasant odor, and an elevated risk of fungal infections. Individuals grappling with hyperhidrosis may find themselves soaking through socks and shoes, which can make everyday activities challenging. Fortunately, various treatment options are available to address this issue. These include using antiperspirant sprays or powders specifically formulated for the feet, wearing moisture-wicking socks and breathable shoes, and avoiding tight-fitting footwear. If you suffer from hyperhidrosis and it is not responding to at-home care, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can provide additional treatment options to manage this condition.

If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis contact Dr. Michael A. Wood of Foot Health Institute. Our doctor can provide the care you need to attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

Hyperhidrosis of the Feet

Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.

Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.

Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.

In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.

A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.

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

Falling is dangerous in many ways. It can invoke a fear of falling, causing the inability to complete daily activities. Additionally, many foot injuries can happen as a result of falling, and this can happen in the home or workplace. The majority of falls can be prevented by implementing simple methods that can make the home and working environment safer. Many people at work have to use ladders for various reasons, and it is important the ladder is on stable ground. Additionally, a locking device can secure the ladder, and wearing slip-resistant shoes while climbing the ladder may help to prevent falling. Removing worn rugs from the living environment and clearing clutter from walkways can help to keep the home safe from falling. Many people install grab bars in the shower and toilet area, which can provide security while in these rooms. If you would like information about how falling can affect the feet, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can provide you with prevention techniques.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Dr. Michael A. Wood from Foot Health Institute. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heels, and despite it being strong, it is not especially flexible. This tendon has a small amount of room to move and an injury can cause it to stretch beyond its normal limits. The noticeable symptoms when the Achilles tendon stretches too far are inflammation, irritation, heel pain, and it is often difficult to walk. People who run and increase speed and distance too quickly may be prone to incurring an Achilles tendon injury, and it is beneficial to perform specific stretches to loosen up this tendon before starting a run. This type of injury may also happen from training in cold weather, having poor running form, or having flat feet. A patient may often seek advice from a podiatrist to find relief from the severe pain this type of injury can cause. An X-ray can be performed that can rule out a fractured bone. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can successfully treat an Achilles tendon injury. 

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Michael A. Wood of Foot Health Institute. Our doctor 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 one of our offices located in Lansing, and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.