Ankle fracture surgery is sometimes needed when the bones are not in the right position to heal on their own. The goal is to realign the joint so it can regain strength, stability, and comfortable movement. After surgery, the ankle is usually protected in a cast or boot while the bone begins to mend. Swelling, bruising, and stiffness are common at first, but these improve with time, rest, and guided activity. As healing progresses, gentle targeted exercises help restore motion and confidence with walking. Wearing supportive footwear and careful weight-bearing also play important roles in the recovery process. Paying attention to discomfort, keeping follow up appointments, and following instructions closely all help ensure the best outcome. If you have concerns about a recent ankle surgery or your recovery, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for proper guidance.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Pima Foot and Ankle Surgery. Our doctors 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 offices located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Peripheral artery disorders occur when circulation to the legs and feet becomes restricted because the arteries have narrowed or hardened. As blood flow decreases, the muscles and skin do not receive enough oxygen, leading to cramping during activity, fatigue in the calves, or a heavy feeling that improves with rest. Some people notice their feet feel cooler than usual or see wounds taking much longer to heal. These circulation problems often develop gradually and are influenced by aging, smoking, diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. Recognizing the early signs matters because untreated poor circulation can lead to infections or chronic ulcers. With proper diagnosis, treatment options can improve comfort and help protect long-term mobility. If you notice persistent foot discomfort, numbness, or slow-healing sores, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate care.

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with one of our podiatrists from Pima Foot and Ankle Surgery. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

• Claudication (leg pain from walking)
• Numbness in legs
• Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
• Paleness of the skin
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
• Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

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

Walking is a complex movement that relies on proper alignment and coordination of the feet, ankles, and legs. When foot pain develops, it can alter normal biomechanics, causing changes in gait and posture that place stress on other joints. Common causes include plantar fasciitis, arthritis, flat feet, or injury to soft tissues. Symptoms include aching, stiffness, or sharp pain that worsens with activity. Over time, these changes can lead to limping, uneven wear on shoes, or discomfort in the knees, hips, and lower back. The foot may appear swollen or misaligned, and walking may feel awkward or unstable. A podiatrist can assess gait and foot structure through examination, imaging, and biomechanical analysis. Treatment may include custom orthotics, footwear recommendations, and stretching programs to relieve pain and restore natural movement. If foot pain is affecting how you walk, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to prevent further complications and maintain healthy mobility.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Pima Foot and Ankle Surgery. Our doctors 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 offices located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Discomfort along the outer edge of the foot can make every step challenging. This pain often develops from repetitive strain, minor injuries, or an imbalance in how weight is distributed while walking. Overstretching or inflammation of the tendons on the side of the foot is common, but sometimes a stress fracture or joint irritation is to blame. Wearing narrow or unsupportive shoes can also add pressure to the area and worsen symptoms. A podiatrist begins by identifying the exact cause through examination and imaging, if needed, then designs a treatment plan that may include rest, supportive footwear, or custom orthotics to ease tension and promote healing. Addressing the issue early helps prevent chronic discomfort. If you have persistent pain on the side of the foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Pima Foot and Ankle Surgery. Our doctors 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 offices located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.