A broken ankle occurs when one or more bones in the ankle joint fracture due to trauma, falls, or twisting injuries. Symptoms include intense pain, swelling, bruising, inability to bear weight, and in severe cases visible deformity. Common causes include sports injuries, car accidents, or missteps on uneven surfaces. Treatment depends on the severity of the fracture. Minor breaks may only require a cast or boot, while complex fractures might need surgical intervention to realign the bones. Recovery typically takes six to twelve weeks, with targeted stretching exercises often necessary to restore strength and mobility. If you suspect a broken ankle, seek immediate care from a podiatrist especially if there is severe swelling, deformity, or numbness.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Richard DiBacco, DPM from Podiatry Associates of Erie, Inc.. Our doctor 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 one of our offices located in Erie and Meadville, PA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Hammertoes occur when a toe bends at its middle joint, resembling a hammer. It is often caused by muscle imbalances, tight shoes, or genetics. Left untreated, hammertoes can lead to corns, calluses, and joint stiffness. Treatment depends on the severity. In the early stages, conservative methods can provide relief. Switching to shoes with a wide toe box prevents pressure on toes, while orthotic inserts help correct alignment. Exercises like toe stretches and picking up small objects with your toes can strengthen muscles and improve flexibility. Pads or cushions can reduce discomfort caused by corns or rubbing. For advanced cases where the toe becomes rigid or painful, surgery may be necessary to realign joints or remove deformed tissue. If you have a painful hammertoe, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss treatment options.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Richard DiBacco, DPM of Podiatry Associates of Erie, Inc.. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

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

A broken toe might seem minor, but it can have surprising consequences if left untreated. While small fractures can heal with rest, complex breaks may cause chronic pain or misalignment. Broken toes often result from stubbing your toe, dropping heavy objects, or sports injuries. Symptoms include sharp pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. However, not all fractures are obvious. Sometimes, persistent discomfort is the only sign of a broken toe. Healing depends on the type and severity of the break. Simple fractures may require buddy taping, or splinting the injured toe to a healthy one, while severe cases might need a cast or surgery. Improper healing can lead to complications like arthritis or gait issues. If you suspect a broken toe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Richard DiBacco, DPM from Podiatry Associates of Erie, Inc.. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Erie and Meadville, PA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.