Here is a chance to test your knowledge regarding foot injuries. The responses will provide you with valuable information and tips you can follow.
1. True of false: If you can move your toe, it means it isn’t broken.
2. True or false: If you break a toe, you need to seek medical attention immediately.
3. True or false: Applying an elastic bandage to a sprained ankle is adequate treatment.
4. True of false: Bone spurs are the primary cause of heel pain.
1. FALSE! The truth is you can often walk with certain kinds of fractures. Examples of these include small chip fractures of the foot or anklebones, and fractures of the toes.
2. TRUE. If X-rays reveal a simple fracture, care by your podiatrist will usually produce immediate relief. If it turns out your fracture is a displaced or angulated break, prompt realignment will help prevent improper or incomplete healing. Patients who fail to receive immediate treatment may develop post-fracture deformity of a toe with a very painful corn.
3. FALSE. Ankle sprains often mean torn or overstretched ligaments. This requires an x-ray and immobilization by professional strapping to reduce motion, casting and physiotherapy to ensure fast recovery. In some instances, surgery may be necessary.
4. FALSE. Heel pain is often caused by poor foot mechanics. A sudden increase in athletic activity, such as running or walking, can create strain on the foot. This frequently affects the ligament that runs from the heel bone to the front of the foot, called the plantar fascia. When this plantar fascia becomes irritated due to strain or over use, it can cause inflammation. Fortunately, there are successful treatments for this condition. Contact your podiatrist for more information.
So, how did you do? Did you answer all four questions correctly? If not, you have learned some information that may serve you well should you or a family member ever sustain a foot injury.
Dr. Robert Abrams, DPM, is medical director of the Footcare Center of Santa Clarita. He can be reached at 661-253-3668.