- Blogs
- October 3, 2023
- Category: Pediatric Foot Issues
- Tags: Achilles tendon, Achilles tendonitis, ankle fractures, Ankle Health, ankle sprains, Common Injuries, exercise, feet, foot care, foot fractures, foot health, heel pain, injuries, podiatrist, toe fractures, West Hartford Podiatry Associates
Children’s bones, ligaments, and tendons undergo rapid growth during growth spurts and can be more susceptible to injury and pain during these times. It is good practice to pay attention to how your developing child walks, runs, and moves to notice problems with their feet. We encourage all your parents to have a podiatrist assess any concerns about pediatric foot care. Have your kids see a foot doctor regularly throughout childhood to catch and correct problems as they arise and to prevent unnecessary complications. Here at West Hartford Podiatry Associates, we pride ourselves in offering the best Pediatric Foot care for your child.
Common foot and ankle problems experienced by children usually include one or more of the following:
Sprained and strained ankles: This is one of the most common injuries in children and adults. Ankle sprains in children heal more quickly, but you should always have them treated promptly and properly by your foot doctor to avoid future complications or missed diagnoses, like fractures.
Achilles tendon problems / Heel Pain: The insertion point where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel is often the site of tendonitis/apophysitis (Sever’s Disease) in children. Heel pain in children often responds well to rest and cold therapy, but if heel pain persists all your foot doctor.
Toe and foot fractures: Acute breaks and stress fractures are more common in kids since their bones are still developing and haven’t reached full strength.
Children often outgrow foot and ankle issues, but to ensure things progress normally, see your podiatrist for the proper diagnosis, advice, and treatment!
At West Hartford Podiatry Associates, Marc Lederman, DPM, and Kurt Rode, DPM, treat a variety of foot and ankle conditions such as ankle sprains, fractures, running injuries, sports injuries, pediatric foot care, bunions, hammertoes, heel pain, and neuromas. We provide the best podiatric solutions to patients of all ages in Hartford County. Contact us for your foot and ankle needs. Our office is at 2531 Albany Ave, West Hartford, CT 06117.
- Blogs
- July 21, 2023
- Category: Ankle Injuries
- Tags: ankle fractures, Ankle Health, ankle sprain treatment, ankle sprains, RICE method, West Hartford Podiatry Associates
Summer is in the air! When it comes to your warm weather plans, it’s important to remember to keep yourself safe and injury free, especially when it comes to your feet and ankles. Pool parties can be fun, but a slip can lead to a fracture if you’re not careful. Wearing flip-flops or sandals might let your toes breathe, but twisting an ankle is too easy. If you have an ankle injury this summer, seeing a podiatrist is important. Don’t ignore your pain!
Here’s what you need to know about the two most common ankle injuries, fractures, and sprains:
Ankle Fractures
Fractures occur when excess force causes bones to break or crack. Stress fractures are smaller cracks in the bone caused by repeated overuse. General fractures are deeper breaks caused by falls or sudden applications of force. Severe cases may involve injury to the surrounding tendons and ligaments and may require surgery.
Symptoms include:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Inability to bear weight
- Sensitivity to touch
Treating a fracture quickly and efficiently is extremely important. Contact your foot doctor ASAP! In the meantime, use the R.I.C.E. treatment and closely follow your podiatrist’s treatment instructions following your assessment appointment.
Ankle Sprains
Sprains occur when ligaments (connective solid bands of tissue) surrounding the ankle are stretched or torn. This commonly occurs when the foot rolls underneath the ankle during high-intensity activities. Sprains can also occur when walking on uneven surfaces.
Symptoms include:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Bruising
Once a sprain occurs, follow the RICE protocol: rest, ice, compress, and elevate. If your sprain doesn’t improve after a few days, call your podiatrist and schedule an appointment. A severe sprain may require surgery to repair the injured ligaments.
At West Hartford Podiatry Associates, Marc Lederman, DPM, and Kurt Rode, DPM, treat a variety of foot and ankle conditions such as ankle sprains, fractures, running injuries, sports injuries, pediatric foot care, bunions, hammertoes, heel pain, and neuromas. We provide the best podiatric solutions to patients of all ages in Hartford County. Contact us for your foot and ankle needs. Our office is at 2531 Albany Ave, West Hartford, CT 06117.
- Blogs
- January 18, 2023
- Category: Injuries
- Tags: Ankle Health, Ankle Injury, ankle sprains, foot health, Foot Injuries, Footwear, Injury Avoidance, Sports Injury, West Hartford Podiatry Associates, Winter Injuries
Weather can play a large part in staying safe during our activities and sports. Just like the summer heat and humidity can lead to exhaustion and dehydration, winter has its fair share of effects on your body, too. From blisters to frostbite, it’s best to take precautions to avoid worst-case scenarios. Here’s how you can have fun and avoid injuries this winter! 
Reduce Your Risk
Winter activities can put a lot of strain and pressure on your legs. Both your knees and ankles act as a “shock absorber” and brakes while you ski, snowboard, and skate. Using knee braces while you participate in winter sports can limit the risk of an injury.
Make sure your ski bindings are adequately adjusted according to your skill level and always fall to the side instead of forward or backward. For ankle sprains, which are most common during snowboarding, work on your balance with a wobble board. Consider sports insoles and ankle tape, as well.
Choose The Appropriate Gear
Dressing appropriately for whatever activity you’re participating in is key to comfortability and preventing an injury. Buying the right footwear can not only help with great performance, but it’ll save you from a trip to the emergency room or podiatry office. Using ice grips or traction devices can help with potential falls and slips.
If you’re using rental skates, make sure you try on a few sizes and choose the most comfortable one. Wearing thick, padded socks will help with blisters. Make sure you lace up your skates tightly around the ankle to prevent sprains.
At West Hartford Podiatry Associates, Marc Lederman, DPM, and Kurt Rode, DPM, treat a variety of foot and ankle conditions such as ankle sprains, fractures, running injuries, sports injuries, pediatric foot care, bunions, hammertoes, heel pain, and neuromas. We provide the best podiatric solutions to patients of all ages.
- Blogs
- August 16, 2022
- Category: Ankle Injuries, Foot Health, Podiatry
- Tags: Ankle fracture, Ankle Health, ankle sprains, Ankle strain, Ankles, Broken Bone, Common Injuries, Fracture, podiatrist, sprains, West Hartford Podiatry Associates
Ankle injuries are among the most common injuries we treat. If you are wondering why, think of how easy it is to move your ankle the wrong way. Whether you are playing a sport or simply walking across the room, there is a chance to make the wrong move. The type of injury occurs when the ankle moves unnaturally. While it is pretty common, it is also undertreated or even diagnosed. A minor ankle pain should still be a reason to visit the podiatrist.
The West Hartford Podiatry Associates doctors are the experts in treating ankle pain. Do you know there are many different ways you can injure your ankle? We’re here to share a bit more information and how you can prevent your ankles from taking the wrong turn. We can’t stress enough how important it is to seek medical help. Never ignore an ankle injury.
As you read below, you may notice similar symptoms that alert you of trouble. With the similarities, it can be difficult to name your ankle injury. Visiting a podiatrist can help. They can ask specific questions and take X-rays if necessary.
Ankle sprains
An ankle sprain is when one of your ligaments is injured. Remember, a wrong twist or turn can cause your ankle to move unnaturally. There is not a one-size-fits-all diagnosis for sprains. For some, the sprain may require more attention and time for recovery.
Ankle strain
You may be diagnosed with an ankle strain if you stretch or tear your muscle or tendon. Again, the severity can differ. Consider what caused the strain. Beware of a tear, which can cause more pain. Rest is best for ankle injuries, including this one.
Ankle fracture
A fracture is another word for a broken bone. To sound like a broken record, this type of injury also has many levels of severity. The break can be slight or so severe that the bone has broken through the skin. An X-ray is the best way to determine which fracture has occurred.
Here is the bottom line: If you have an ankle injury, we are the ones to call. With similar symptoms and varying possibilities for severity, it’s best to connect with the experts.
At West Hartford Podiatry Associates, Harvey Lederman, DPM, Marc Lederman, DPM, and Kurt Rode, DPM treat a variety of foot and ankle conditions such as ankle sprains, fractures, running injuries, sports injuries, pediatric foot care, bunions, hammertoes, heel pain, and neuromas. We provide the best podiatric solutions to patients of all ages in Hartford County. Contact us for your foot and ankle needs. Our office is at 2531 Albany Ave, West Hartford, CT 06117.
- Blogs
- July 22, 2022
- Category: Foot Health, Podiatry, running
- Tags: Achilles tendonitis, ankle sprains, feet and ankles, feet and ankles injuries, injuries, orthotics, plantar fasciitis, podiatrist, prevention, runner, running, running injuries, treatment
If you’ve been running this summer, then you know the injuries that may come your way. For a runner, these injuries can be discouraging. Depending on the severity of the condition, you can be off the treadmill, road, or track for longer than you’d like. We’re here to help you stay the course this summer. There are things you can do today to protect your feet and ankles. It’s not too late.
The doctors at West Hartford Podiatry Associates know the common problems that can face patients. Even better, they also have prevention tips and treatment options. Of course, we always start with your shoes. Make sure you are training with the proper shoes.
Here are some helpful tips for common injuries:
Ankle sprains
It only takes a twist or a wrong turn for an ankle sprain to become your new reality. This injury is often ignored and undiagnosed. When your ankle moves unnaturally, watch for symptoms like swelling or pain. Ignoring the symptoms can lead to prolonged problems.
Prevention: Choose shoes with ankle support
Treatment: Rest, use ice, apply compression, and elevate your leg; then, contact a podiatrist
Plantar fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a form of heel pain. It occurs when we overload our plantar fascia, which also provides arch support. This is a condition that is telling you to let your body rest. Many people will notice pain first thing in the morning.
Prevention: Stretch and slowly increase your intensity
Treatment: More arch support, orthotics, ice, and rest
Achilles tendonitis
We have another overuse injury here, so runners beware. A burst of intensity or sudden pressure can be the cause. For runners, this means sprinting or continued running or training. We know that many runners encounter these scenarios, but there are ways to stay safe.
Prevention: Stretch and take training slowly
Treatment: Rest, begin physical therapy, or consider surgery (only if necessary)
We don’t want your training to take a different turn this season. Take these steps now to protect your feet and ankles.
At West Hartford Podiatry Associates, Harvey Lederman, DPM, Marc Lederman, DPM, and Kurt Rode, DPM treat a variety of foot and ankle conditions such as ankle sprains, fractures, running injuries, pediatric foot care, bunions, hammertoes, heel pain, and neuromas. We provide the best podiatric solutions to patients of all ages in Hartford County. Contact us for your foot and ankle needs. Our office is at 2531 Albany Ave, West Hartford, CT 06117.
- Blogs
- June 21, 2022
- Category: foot pain, Pediatric Foot Issues
- Tags: ankle sprains, Apophysitis, Foot Pain, In-Toeing, Injury, pigeon-toed, sprains
The lazy, hazy summer days are here, which means more free, fun time for children. But summer also brings with it more risks to their foot health. At West Hartford Podiatry Associates, Harvey Lederman, DPM, Marc Lederman, DPM, and Kurt Rode, DPM want your children to enjoy their summer safely. So today, we’re sharing three common pediatric ankle and foot problems we see in our office during the summer months.
Apophysitis: Heel apophysitis or Sever’s disease is a painful condition of the heel that occurs in growing children. It happens when the tendon that attaches to the back of the heel (the Achilles tendon) pulls on the growth plate (the apophysis) of the heel bone (the calcaneus). Most often occurring in very active children, apophysitis resolves on its own as the growth plates fuse. For girls this is usually by age 13-14 and 15-16 for boys.
In-Toeing: In-toeing occurs when a child runs or walks with the feet turned inward instead of straight ahead, also commonly referred to as being “pigeon-toed.” Parents usually first notice this condition when a baby starts walking, but children at various ages may exhibit in-toeing for varied reasons. It is often noticeable during summer sports.
Pediatric Ankle Sprains: It’s great to have children running around and playing more actively during the summer months. Unfortunately, that increases the chances of an ankle sprain or other injury. The most effective way to prevent your child’s foot injuries is to ensure they wear the correct shoes for their activity type. We often see sprains and cuts in children who wear flip-flops when playing a sport or running.
If your child develops a problem with their feet or complains of pain, even if there is no visible injury, it’s time to schedule an appointment with us!
At West Hartford Podiatry Associates, Harvey Lederman, DPM, Marc Lederman, DPM, and Kurt Rode, DPM treat a variety of foot and ankle conditions such as ankle sprains, fractures, running injuries, sports injuries, pediatric foot care, bunions, hammertoes, heel pain, and neuromas. We provide the best pediatric podiatric solutions in Hartford County. Contact us for your foot and ankle needs. Our office is at 2531 Albany Ave, West Hartford, CT 06117.
- contactus@westhartfordpodiatry.net
- July 30, 2021
- Category: foot safety, sports injuries
- Tags: ankle sprains, diabetes, foot safety, fractures, plantar warts, running injuries, sports injuries
Summer is here, but don’t put foot and ankle safety on the sidelines. The doctors at West Hartford Podiatry Associates are here to help you enjoy this season while reducing your risk for foot and ankle injuries and conditions. Here are three tips for prioritizing your foot and ankle safety this summer.
Keep your feet covered
Wearing socks and the right shoes is one of the best ways to protect your feet and ankles and avoid ankle sprains, fractures, running injuries, and sports injuries. As temperatures rise, you might opt for flip-flops but do so only when heading to the pool or the beach. While such footwear protects your feet from hot pavement and sharp objects, it lacks sufficient arch and ankle support. Going barefoot is not advised, especially for patients with diabetes, who may develop an infection from a cut or a scratch which can lead to further complications.
Don’t share shoes
Did you know that plantar warts are contagious? One of the ways they are passed along is when people share shoes, including shower shoes, beach flip-flops, and more. Sharing toenail clippers and other personal hygiene products are common ways for spreading fungus, too.
Don’t skip the sunscreen
We often forget our feet when applying sunscreen. Protect all of your skin this summer by adding sunscreen to your feet and ankles. Don’t forget the sides of your feet, the tops of your toes, and other places that we often ignore. Avoid adding sunblock between your toes as that is the ideal location for fungus growth. Keep watch and notify your podiatrist of any changes on your feet, including color or shape changes to moles. We’re here to help.
At West Hartford Podiatry Associates, Harvey Lederman, DPM, Marc Lederman, DPM, and Kurt Rode, DPM treat a variety of foot and ankle conditions such as ankle sprains, fractures, running injuries, sports injuries, pediatric foot care, bunions, hammertoes, heel pain, and neuromas. We provide the best podiatric solutions to patients of all ages in Hartford County. Contact us for your foot and ankle needs. Our office is at 2531 Albany Ave, West Hartford, CT 06117.
- contactus@westhartfordpodiatry.net
- February 24, 2021
- Category: sports injuries
- Tags: ankle fractures, ankle sprains, frostbite, fungal infection, sports injuries, winter
Participating in winter sports is a fun way to stay in shape as the temperatures drop outside. Whether you’re skiing, ice skating, or taking a cold morning run, the doctors at West Hartford Podiatry Associates want to help you reduce your risk of injury and avoid an unscheduled visit to the podiatrist.
Common winter injuries include ankle sprains and ankle fractures. An ankle fracture occurs when the ankle rolls inward or outward and there is a break in the bone. An ankle sprain occurs when ligaments are injured. Here’s what you can do to avoid these injuries:
Warm-up
Warming up is one of the best ways to reduce your risk of a foot or ankle injury while playing a winter sport. Allow your body the proper time to warm-up and prepare for exercise. Rushing into an activity can lead to injuries that can put you on the sidelines for the rest of the season. While it’s important to warm up before you play a sport, don’t forget to cool down too.
Wear the right shoes
Does the shoe fit? Ask this question when thinking about the size of your feet as well as the sport. Different sports require specific styles of shoes to provide maximum support and the best performance experience. Re-evaluate your shoes often and look for signs of wear and tear.
Watch the weather
Layer up when the temperatures dip to avoid frostbite. We also suggest choosing the right shoes for slippery or dangerous weather conditions and keeping your feet dry. Reduce your risk of developing a fungal infection.
Follow our suggestions to avoid bumps, bruises, sprains, and fractures. We’re here to help you prevent a winter sports injury this season. At West Hartford Podiatry Associates, Harvey Lederman, DPM, Marc Lederman, DPM, and Kurt Rode, DPM treat a variety of foot and ankle conditions such as ankle sprains, foot and ankle fractures, Achilles raptures, bunions, hammertoes, heel pain, neuromas, and warts. We provide the best podiatric solutions to patients of all ages in Hartford County. Contact us for your foot and ankle needs. Our office is at 2531 Albany Ave, West Hartford, CT 06117.
ankle sprains
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