Foot & Ankle Trauma

Foot and ankle trauma can occur at any time for any number of reasons. While they are most common with those who are active and play sports, they can also occur as a result of a misstep. The most common foot and ankle injuries are sprains and fractures, however it is also possible to strain or tear a tendon.

Sprains

Sprains occur when the ligaments are stretched too far and become damaged. Depending on the severity of the sprain, they are graded as mild, moderate, or severe. Mild sprains are generally treated with rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Moderate sprains will use the same treatment, however may also utilize a boot or brace to keep the ankle immobilized. For sprains ranging from moderate to severe, non weight bearing is often used. Severe sprains take the longest to heal and may require surgical intervention if the ligaments don’t heal properly. An MRI is usually needed to confirm the diagnosis and help determine severity.

Strains

Strains occur when the muscles or tendons are stretched too far and become damaged. The treatment for strains is similar to that of sprains and will utilize rest, ice, compression, and elevation, as well as possible immobilization. Bracing and physical therapy may also be needed, depending on the severity of the injury. In some cases, surgery may also be required. An MRI is usually needed to confirm the diagnosis and help determine severity.

Fractures

A fracture and a break are interchangeable terms used to describe when a bone is damaged. Depending on the severity of the break, surgery may or may not be needed. Stable fractures can usually be treated by bracing or casting the foot, effectively immobilizing it. Unstable fractures usually require surgery before they can be casted and immobilized. After a fracture, it will take approximately 6 weeks for the bones to heal.

Tendon Tears

Tendon tears can occur when a sudden force is exerted on the tendon. This may also cause the tendon to rupture. The treatment for tendon tears is similar to that of strains and will utilize rest, ice, compression, and elevation, as well as possible immobilization. Bracing and physical therapy may also be needed, depending on the severity of the injury. In some cases, surgery may also be required. An MRI is usually needed to confirm the diagnosis and help determine severity.

Did You Know?

Ankle sprains are quite common and everyday 25,000 Americans sprain their ankle.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does foot & ankle trauma happen?

Foot & ankle trauma can happen as a result of many things, however the most common causes are sudden impacts or jerks, walking or running on uneven ground, improper landing after a jump, tripping or falling, or twisting, rotating, or rolling the ankle.

How will Dr. Hadfield diagnose foot & ankle trauma?

Dr. Hadfield will ask you about your medical history and perform a physical exam. Although the cause of foot & ankle trauma can usually be diagnosed from the physical exam alone, in some cases imaging tests, such as x-rays, may be performed to rule out other possible conditions. An MRI is usually needed to confirm the diagnosis and help determine severity. Once he has made a diagnosis, he will treat the injury as mentioned above.

Dr. Hadfield of Hadfield Foot & Ankle has been serving McKinney and the surrounding Collin County area by providing excellent care to patients through highly skilled conservative and surgical treatments, as well as superior customer service. If you have foot or ankle concerns, schedule a consultation with Dr. Hadfield today and take your next step forward!