Foot and Ankle Pain
Podiatrists, Foot & Ankle Pain Specialists in Hamilton Twp, NJ
Foot, Ankle or Toe Fractures
What Are Foot Fractures?
A broken bone is also known as a fracture. There is a common misconception that a broken bone is worse than a fracture. In reality they are the same. There are many different types of fractures or breaks. A bone can be broken and the fragments can be out of position. We call this a displaced fracture. Conversely, if they are in good alignment it's called a non-displaced fracture. If a bone is broken and you can barely see it on an x-ray, it is a hairline fracture. Finally, if a bone is broken and one of the fragments has punctured the skin, we call this an open or compound fracture.
Treatment for Foot Fractures
Open fractures can easily become infected immediate surgical management is required. Broken bones are usually splinted initially to prevent bone movement and further damage to the soft tissues that surround them. If the fracture is displaced it may need to be set. In certain fractures, setting them can be difficult. In these types of fractures, surgery is also indicated. This will provide the best opportunity for healing. Even though all of this sounds very scary, most fractures can be managed in a cast without going to the OR. Even simple fractures of the toes respond very well to this treatment. And yes, we do put casts on toes. Not the plaster or fiberglass most people think of. Instead, we use a mesh tape which holds the toe in place.
If you have a foot or ankle injury call Dr. James Ricketti & Associates and will make every attempt to see you that day.
Ankle Sprains & Instabilities
Dr. James Ricketti & Associates can help you find ankle pain relief.
Sprains are an extremely common ankle injury. They involve possible joint damage resulting in pain, instability, and swelling, to more severe damage, such as torn ligaments, bruised cartilage and broken bones. Osteochondritis is a disorder where loose bone or cartilage gets caught between joints or bones, causing stiffness, pain, and swelling, in severe cases, immobility. Twisting-type injury of the ankle can cause loose piece(s) of bone or cartilage. Untreated sprained ankles result in prolonged symptoms. These can include chronic pain or ankle instability, that makes a person prone to repetitive injury later in life and arthritic changes.
Our Podiatrists are specialize in ankle injuries. Dr. James Ricketti & Associates utilizes state-of-the-art technology to evaluate if there is a fracture, dislocation or torn ligaments. If you've sprained your ankle or have a history of ankle sprains, early evaluation and treatment is the best way to avoid arthritis, instability and pain.
Tendon Injury
Achilles Tendinitis
Achilles tendinitis is a medical condition that causes pain along the back of the leg near the heel. This happens when the Achilles tendon is constantly abused. This condition is common among athletes and middle age people who are actively engaged in sport activities. The Achilles tendon is a band of tissue that connects calf muscles at the back of the lower leg to your heel bone. It allows a person to extend the foot and point the toes to the floor. This is also the thickest, longest and strongest tendon of the body. Generally, tendons such as the Achilles tendon do not heal rapidly or completely. A lifestyle change is sometimes needed to prevent the recurrence of Achilles tendinitis. The aim in treating Achilles tendinitis is to relieve the pain and reduce the swelling.
Tendon Injury Treatment
resting the leg, cold compression therapy, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication, physical therapy, heel lift and using of a brace or cast to keep the heel and tendon still. Surgery may be needed if the symptoms do not improve. James C. Ricketti, DPM medical team will assess the severity of the condition and select the best procedure to repair the Achilles tendon. .