Persistent lateral ankle pain refers to ongoing pain on the outer side of the ankle that does not fully improve after an injury or continues without a clear cause. Many people assume the discomfort is simply the result of a previous ankle sprain, but pain that lasts for weeks or months can point to other problems that require a closer evaluation. Symptoms include aching, tenderness, swelling, and a feeling of weakness around the ankle. Some people notice pain when walking, climbing stairs, or standing for long periods. The ankle may feel unstable, and some patients report that it occasionally gives way. 

Because several conditions can cause pain on the side of the ankle, an accurate diagnosis is important. A podiatrist will begin by discussing the patient's symptoms, previous injuries, and activity level. The ankle and foot are then carefully examined for swelling, tenderness, weakness, and signs of instability. The podiatrist may ask the patient to move the foot in different directions to determine which movements cause discomfort. Walking patterns and foot structure are also evaluated because abnormal foot mechanics can place extra stress on the ankle.

Imaging studies like X-rays can help rule out bone injuries. Additional imaging may be used to examine the soft tissues surrounding the ankle. Conditions linked to persistent lateral ankle pain include lingering effects of an ankle sprain, irritation of the tendons along the outside of the ankle, and small tears in soft tissue. Hidden injuries that were not recognized when the pain first began can also be responsible. Identifying the source of the pain as early as possible can help prevent worsening symptoms and improve recovery. If you have persistent pain on the side of the ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Shawn Echard, DPM from Laurel Podiatry LLC. Our practitioner will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Greensburg and Somerset, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

High heels may look sexy and make the legs look longer, but a lifetime spent wearing high heels can cause a lot of damage to the feet. The angle at which the toes and ball of the foot are jammed into a pointy toe box adds undue pressure on the bottom of the foot. The higher the heel, the more pressure is added. This may result in several painful foot conditions including bunions, hammertoes, corns, calluses, and Achilles tendonitis, to name a few. Other effects in the long-term wearing of high heels is plantar fasciitis, Haglund’s deformity at the back of the heel, which is also called pump bump, knee and back pain caused by the shifting of weight, and Morton’s neuroma, which affects the nerves under the third and fourth toe. If you are experiencing any of these foot conditions and the pain is ongoing or worsening, please schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and discussion of treatment options. 

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Shawn Echard, DPM from Laurel Podiatry LLC. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Greensburg and Somerset, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar heel pain is a common foot complaint with several possible causes, and proper evaluation helps determine the source. Plantar fasciitis, a condition involving inflammation and strain of the thick band of tissue that supports the arch and connects the heel to the toes, is one of the most frequent reasons. This often causes sharp pain with the first steps in the morning or after rest. Heel pad irritation can create a deep bruised feeling beneath the heel, especially with prolonged standing. Nerve irritation may cause burning, tingling, or shooting discomfort that extends beyond the heel. Stress injuries in the heel bone can develop from repeated impact and often worsen with activity. Inflammatory joint conditions may also contribute to ongoing heel discomfort. Because symptoms can overlap, a podiatrist will assess pain patterns, foot structure, walking mechanics, and activity history to identify the cause. If you have persistent heel pain that affects walking, exercise, or daily comfort, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a complete evaluation.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Shawn Echard, DPM of Laurel Podiatry LLC. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Greensburg and Somerset, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An ingrown toenail happens when the edge of a nail grows into the surrounding skin instead of resting above it. This can cause tenderness, swelling, redness, and sometimes drainage, if an infection develops. Tight shoes, improper nail trimming, injury, and natural nail shape can all play a role. Early cases may improve with conservative care, but some ingrown nails continue to return or become increasingly painful. When simpler treatments do not bring relief, a podiatrist may recommend a minor in-office procedure that removes the problem section of the nail while preserving the rest. This targeted approach is commonly chosen because it is straightforward, well-tolerated, and associated with a smooth recovery for many patients. The goal is to ease discomfort and lower the chance of the issue returning. If you have a painful or recurring ingrown toenail, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist for appropriate treatment solutions.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Shawn Echard, DPM of Laurel Podiatry LLC. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Greensburg and Somerset, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.