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A broken ankle occurs when one or more bones surrounding the ankle joint crack. A twist, fall, or direct blow can cause this injury. The break can affect the fibula and tibia, which are the two lower-leg bones, either one or both. The bony bump on the ankle’s outside, called the lateral malleolus, or the bump on the inside, called the medial malleolus, also may be injured. The back edge of the tibia, called the posterior malleolus, may be fractured. 

Pain, swelling, and trouble putting weight on the injured foot can indicate a broken ankle. Bruising or a change in the ankle’s shape can occur. Because some small breaks feel like a severe sprain, symptoms alone cannot confirm the injury. A podiatrist examines the ankle, checks tender areas, and evaluates its stability. X-rays show whether a bone is broken and if so, whether the pieces remain lined up. These findings help the podiatrist decide if the fracture is stable or unstable. Prompt diagnosis matters because an unstable joint or poorly aligned bone can lead to lasting stiffness, weakness, or arthritis.

A podiatrist creates a treatment plan based on the fracture’s location, alignment, and stability. A stable break can be protected in a walking boot or cast while the bone heals. The podiatrist monitors healing with follow-up visits and imaging. An unstable fracture can require surgery to place the bone pieces into their correct position. Plates, screws, or pins may be used to hold them steady. After treatment, the podiatrist develops a plan for a safe return to standing, walking, and regular activities. Follow-up care helps identify poor alignment or delayed healing before further problems occur. Following weight-bearing limits and appointment schedules protects the healing ankle and lowers the chance of another injury. If you have broken your ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Vincent, Vess from Fourth River Foot & Ankle. Our doctor 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 Pittsburgh, White Oak, and McKeesport,PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Corns and calluses are areas of thickened skin that develop when the feet experience repeated pressure or friction. Although they are similar, they often appear in different ways. Calluses usually cover a wider area and commonly develop on weight-bearing parts of the foot, such as the sole. Corns are typically smaller and may form on or between the toes. They can have a firm center that becomes painful when pressed. Poorly fitting footwear, changes in foot structure, and certain walking patterns can increase pressure on specific areas. Corns and calluses are the skin’s response to repeated stress, but ongoing discomfort may indicate that the source of pressure needs professional attention.

Symptoms depend on the location and thickness of the affected skin. A callus may feel rough or hardened, while a corn can cause more focused pain when walking or wearing shoes. Some corns develop between the toes, where moisture can make the skin softer. Changes in toe position or foot shape may also create areas where skin repeatedly rubs against footwear. People with diabetes or poor circulation should take areas of damaged or thickened skin seriously, because foot complications can become more difficult to manage. Recurring corns and calluses should be evaluated to identify what is causing continued pressure or friction.

A podiatrist can examine corns and calluses and determine whether foot structure, footwear, or walking mechanics are contributing to the problem. Professional podiatric care may include safely reducing thickened skin and addressing areas of excessive pressure. A podiatrist can also evaluate related conditions, such as bunions or toe deformities, that may contribute to recurring symptoms. Treatment is based on the location and cause of the problem, with the goal of improving comfort and protecting foot health. If painful or recurring corns and calluses are making walking or wearing shoes uncomfortable, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options. 

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Vincent, Vess of Fourth River Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

Cracked heels develop when the skin around the heel becomes dry, thick, and less flexible. Pressure from standing and walking can cause heel pain. The heel may look rough or have a hard rim of skin. Deeper cracks, called fissures, can cause pain, bleeding, and tenderness when weight is placed on the foot. Dry weather, aging, and prolonged standing can increase the risk. Shoes with open backs can also allow the heel to spread under pressure. Certain health concerns, including diabetes, eczema, and poor circulation, can make the skin more likely to crack.

A cracked heel should receive attention when it is painful, bleeding, or slow to heal. Redness, warmth, and drainage can point to an infection. Patients with diabetes should take heel cracks seriously because nerve damage can reduce feeling in the feet. Reduced circulation can also interfere with healing. A podiatrist can examine the depth of each crack and check the foot for infection. The evaluation can also identify pressure patterns that contribute to the problem. When another condition appears to be affecting the skin, the podiatrist can explain how it relates to the heel damage and coordinate further care.

Treatment from a podiatrist focuses on closing the cracks, reducing pressure, and restoring healthier skin. The podiatrist can remove thick, hardened skin. This reduces tension around the heel without harming healthy tissue. Protective dressings can cover open areas and support healing. Custom orthotics or heel cups can distribute weight more evenly and limit pressure on damaged skin. A podiatrist can also recommend shoes that fit correctly, support the heel, and reduce spreading with each step. Regular foot evaluations can help patients with diabetes or circulation problems avoid deeper wounds and infections. Follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to check healing and adjust the treatment plan. If you have painful cracked heels, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective treatment remedies, which may include prescribed medication.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Vincent, Vess from Fourth River Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin. This usually affects the big toe but can occur on any toe. As the nail presses into the skin, it can cause irritation, inflammation, and discomfort. Without proper care, an ingrown toenail may become more painful and increase the risk of infection. Understanding the causes and symptoms can help with early treatment and prevention.

Symptoms of an ingrown toenail include redness, swelling, and pain along the side of the nail. The affected area may feel sore when pressure is applied, especially when wearing shoes. In more advanced cases, the skin around the nail may become warm, irritated, or produce drainage if an infection develops. Some individuals may notice increased sensitivity while walking or standing. Recognizing these warning signs early can help prevent the condition from becoming more severe.

Several causes can contribute to the development of ingrown toenails. Wearing ill-fitting shoes that place pressure on the toes can force the nail into the surrounding skin. Improper nail trimming is another common cause, especially when toenails are cut too short or rounded at the edges. Other contributing factors include toe injuries, naturally curved toenails, and repeated pressure from activities that stress the feet. These factors can change how the nail grows and increase irritation.

Risk factors for ingrown toenails include wearing tight footwear, participating in activities that involve repeated pressure on the toes, and having a family history of curved toenails. Individuals with diabetes or circulation concerns may face a higher risk of complications if an ingrown toenail becomes infected. Proper nail care, comfortable shoes, and regular foot checks can help reduce the chance of developing this condition. If you have signs of an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions, which may include minor surgery.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Vincent, Vess of Fourth River Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

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