The ability to sense joint position, known as proprioception, is essential for stability and movement control. In the ankle, this sense plays a critical role in maintaining balance, especially during quick changes in direction or uneven surfaces common in sports. When ankle proprioception is sharp, athletes can adjust their movements efficiently, reducing the likelihood of missteps or falls. However, injuries like sprains can impair this system, making future injuries more likely. Rehabilitation that includes balance training and targeted exercises helps restore ankle awareness and strengthen neuromuscular coordination. Improved proprioception not only aids recovery but also enhances overall athletic performance by supporting quicker reactions and more confident movements. If you are recovering from an ankle injury or notice ongoing instability, it is suggested you speak with a podiatrist.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Leonard Talarico, DPM from Georgia. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Pooler, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A broken toe may seem minor, but without proper care, it can lead to lasting pain or deformity. Most broken toes result from stubbing the toe or dropping something heavy on it. Symptoms often include swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. Some people hear a pop at the time of injury. Not all breaks cause the toe to look crooked, so it is important not to ignore the pain. Rest, elevation, and gentle compression can help in the first hours after injury. Wearing stiff-soled shoes can protect the toe during healing. In some cases, buddy taping to a neighboring toe is recommended. More serious fractures may need splinting or surgery. If your toe remains swollen, painful, or difficult to move after an injury, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist to confirm the diagnosis and receive the right treatment.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Leonard Talarico, DPM from Georgia. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, most often affecting the big toe. This condition can result from a diet high in purines, kidney problems, or genetic factors. Symptoms include intense joint pain, swelling, redness, warmth, and, in some cases, fever and chills. Over time, repeated attacks may lead to joint deformity and lasting damage. A podiatrist can help by diagnosing the condition, offering medication, lifestyle guidance, and managing flare-ups to prevent progression. If you notice intense, sudden pain or swelling in your big toe joint, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose the problem, and help you to manage pain.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Leonard Talarico, DPM from Georgia. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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