Gentle exercises play an important role in recovering from an ankle sprain and restoring strength and movement. One common option is the ankle alphabet, where the foot traces letters in the air to encourage controlled motion in multiple directions. Side to side knee swings, performed while seated with the foot flat on the floor, help improve ankle flexibility and ease stiffness without added strain. Towel scrunch exercises focus on strengthening the small muscles of the foot by gripping and pulling a towel with the toes. These movements support balance and stability as healing progresses. Exercises should be done slowly and within a comfortable range. A podiatrist can recommend when to begin these activities and how to progress safely. Proper guidance helps reduce reinjury risk and promotes a more confident return to walking and daily activities. If you have sustained an ankle sprain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment, which may include healing exercises.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Derek Smith, DPM from Oklahoma. 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 our offices located in Ponca City, and Stillwater, OK . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Pain in the ball of the foot occurs when too much pressure is placed on metatarsal heads, the long bones just behind the toes. This condition, termed metatarsalgia, can occur from running, jumping, or standing for long periods. Shoes that are too tight, narrow, or have high heels can push weight forward and strain the front of the foot. Foot shapes like high arches or flat feet can also cause uneven pressure. Bunions, hammertoes, or nerve irritation can add to the pain. Sometimes, small stress fractures or joint inflammation are the cause. The pain can feel sharp, burning, or like walking on a pebble. A podiatrist can check the structure of the foot, look at how you walk, and use imaging to determine the cause. Proper footwear, orthotics, or surgery may be suggested to relieve pressure. If you experience pain in the ball of the foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Derek Smith, DPM from Oklahoma. 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:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

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

Tarsal tunnel syndrome involves pressure on a nerve that travels along the inside of the ankle and into the sole of the foot. It is similar to how carpal tunnel syndrome affects a nerve at the wrist. The pain develops when the tibial nerve is squeezed within a narrow space near the ankle, leading to sensory changes in the foot. Warning signs include tingling, numbness, burning, or sharp sensations in the arch, heel, or toes. Discomfort can worsen with walking or standing and continue during rest. Causes include flat feet, swelling after ankle injuries, arthritis-related changes, or soft tissue masses near the nerve. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, check nerve response, and confirm the source of compression. If you are experiencing such ankle pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and options for treatment.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Derek Smith, DPM from Oklahoma. Our doctor 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 tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• 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 Ponca City, and Stillwater, OK . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Arthritis in the toes affects the joints and can make everyday movement uncomfortable. It often develops with increased age as joint cartilage naturally wears down. Being overweight places added pressure on the toe joints, while genetics may increase the likelihood of developing this condition. Common symptoms include persistent pain, stiffness, swelling and reduced flexibility in the toes which may worsen with walking or standing. Some people notice tenderness, redness or difficulty wearing shoes comfortably. A podiatrist can help by evaluating joint health and recommending personalized treatment, such as supportive footwear, custom orthotics, targeted exercises, and pain management strategies. Early care can slow progression and improve function. If toe pain or stiffness is limiting your lifestyle, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and management tips. 

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Derek Smith, DPM from Oklahoma. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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