Ankle fractures can range from minor cracks to severe breaks involving multiple bones. Treatment depends on the type and extent of the injury. For stable fractures where the bones remain in place, non-surgical care such as a cast, walking boot, or splint may be enough to allow proper healing. Elevation and limited weight-bearing are often part of early recovery. In cases where the bones are out of alignment or the joint is unstable, surgery may be required. This usually involves placing screws or plates to hold the bones in position as they heal. Targeted exercises are often recommended after the bone has healed to restore movement, strength, and balance. Healing time can vary depending on the injury and the treatment method. If you have suffered an ankle injury and are unsure of its severity, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment plan.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from APEX Foot & Ankle Center. 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 Fort Myers, Shellpoint, and Naples, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Toenail fungus, medically known as onychomycosis, is an infection caused by fungi that feeds on keratin which is the protein that makes up the hard surface of the toenails. This often leads to thickened, discolored, brittle, or distorted nails. Risk factors include poor foot hygiene, excessive moisture, wearing tight shoes, or having conditions like diabetes or weakened immunity. Diagnosis is made through a clinical exam and sometimes a lab test to confirm the fungal source. If you have symptoms of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of APEX Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Fort Myers, Shellpoint, and Naples, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s foot is a skin infection caused by fungi that thrive in warm, moist areas, such as shoes, locker rooms, and public shower areas. It often appears as peeling, itching, or cracked skin between the toes or on the soles of the feet. Some cases may cause redness, blisters, or a burning sensation. Because symptoms can resemble eczema or psoriasis, a proper diagnosis is important. A podiatrist can usually identify athlete’s foot by examining the affected area. In some cases, a small skin sample may be taken and examined under a microscope or sent to a lab to confirm the presence of fungus. Accurate diagnosis ensures the most effective treatment. If you notice persistent foot irritation or scaling, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and a treatment plan that clears the infection and prevents it from returning.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from APEX Foot & Ankle Center.  Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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

A bunion is a bony growth that develops at the base of the big toe when the joint becomes misaligned. Bunions are often the result of inherited foot structure problems, such as flat feet or joint looseness. Over time, the top of the toe leans inward, causing pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. Bunions can lead to complications, if ignored. Bursitis, which is inflammation of the joint's fluid-filled sac, may develop and cause additional pain and stiffness. Other complications include hammertoes, overlapping toes, metatarsal pain, and thickened skin or calluses. In certain cases, joint damage can limit motion in the big toe or result in permanent deformity. A podiatrist can assess the severity of the bunion and determine the most appropriate care. Treatment options include custom orthotics to relieve pressure or bunion surgery to realign the bones and remove inflamed tissue. If you have painful bunions, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment options.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact one of our podiatrists of APEX Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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