A broken ankle is a serious injury that requires prompt medical attention. An ankle fracture occurs when one or more bones that form the ankle joint crack or break. This injury can happen after a fall, a sports accident, or a sudden twisting movement. Symptoms include severe pain, swelling, and bruising. Many people find it difficult or impossible to put weight on the injured foot. In some cases, the ankle appears misshapen or out of position. A podiatrist can examine the injury and order X-rays to determine the location and severity of the fracture. Early diagnosis is important because proper treatment helps the bones heal in the correct position and lowers the risk of long-term problems.

Treatment depends on the type of fracture and how far the bones have moved. Minor fractures may be treated with a supportive walking boot or a cast. These devices help keep the ankle stable while the bone heals. More serious fractures sometimes require the bones to be carefully moved back into place. This procedure restores normal alignment of the joint. Some patients need surgery to secure the broken bones with metal plates or screws. A podiatrist monitors healing through follow-up visits and imaging studies. Regular evaluations help ensure the ankle remains stable and is healing as expected.

Recovery from a broken ankle takes patience and close medical supervision. Many ankle fractures heal within several weeks, although healing times vary depending on the injury. As recovery progresses, a podiatrist may recommend specific exercises to improve movement and strength. Follow-up care also helps identify problems, such as stiffness, swelling, or delayed healing. Prompt treatment gives patients the best chance of returning to normal activities safely. If you believe you have broken your ankle, it is suggested that you make an emergency appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Sarah Urton, DPM from Kitsilano Foot and Ankle Clinic. 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 our office located in Vancouver, BC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot pain can affect people of all ages and activity levels. It may appear as aching, sharp discomfort, or a burning sensation in different parts of the foot. This pain often develops from repeated stress, poor foot mechanics, or improper footwear. Underlying conditions, such as flat feet or high arches, may also contribute. Risk factors include standing for long periods, carrying excess weight, and playing certain sports. Strain on soft tissues can lead to a number of conditions. Plantar fasciitis involves inflammation of the heel tissue. Fat pad atrophy occurs when the natural cushioning on the heels thins. Morton’s neuroma develops from a thickening of nerve tissue, commonly between the third and fourth toes. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, order X-rays and digital imaging, and create targeted treatment plans to relieve pain and restore function. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer appropriate treatment solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Sarah Urton, DPM from Kitsilano Foot and Ankle Clinic. 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 office located in Vancouver, BC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout is a form of arthritis that develops when uric acid builds up in the blood and forms sharp crystals in the joints. It often appears suddenly, with intense pain, redness, swelling, and warmth, most commonly in the big toe. The pain can be severe enough to wake someone from sleep and make even light pressure feel unbearable. Causes include high uric acid levels linked to diet, certain medications, and underlying health conditions. Risk factors include age, obesity, dehydration, and a family history of the condition. Episodes may come and go, but without proper care, they can become more frequent and damaging. A podiatrist can diagnose gout, manage flare ups, and help prevent joint damage. Gout can be extremely painful and may cause difficulty in completing daily activities. If you have had one or more gout attacks, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you to manage this painful condition. 

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Sarah Urton, DPM from Kitsilano Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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

Cuboid syndrome occurs when the cuboid bone becomes slightly displaced, often causing pain along the outer side of the foot. It can develop suddenly after an ankle sprain or gradually from repeated strain during activities such as running or jumping. This condition may create a feeling of weakness, soreness, or difficulty bearing weight, especially during push-off while walking. Risk factors include overuse, poor foot mechanics, inadequate footwear, and high impact sports. People with flat feet or unstable ankles may be more prone to this injury. A podiatrist can diagnose the problem through a careful exam, restore proper alignment, and provide treatments that improve function and relieve discomfort.  If you have symptoms of cuboid syndrome, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat foot pain.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with Sarah Urton, DPM from Kitsilano Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

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

The arches of the foot play an important role in how people stand, walk, and move. Each foot has three arches that include a high inner arch, a lower outer arch, and a cross-arch near the ball of the foot. These structures are supported by strong tissues that help hold the foot together. The arches work like springs, helping to absorb shock and spread body weight with each step. They also help the foot stay flexible, which allows smooth movement while walking and running. When the arches do not function properly, too much stress can be placed on certain areas of the foot. This can lead to pain, poor balance, or changes in walking patterns. A podiatrist can examine foot structure, assess how the arches function, and order imaging tests to confirm a diagnosis. Treatment options include custom orthotics, bracing, or other methods to improve support and alignment. If you have arch pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Sarah Urton, DPM from Kitsilano Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Vancouver, BC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.