An ankle avulsion fracture occurs when a ligament or tendon pulls a small fragment of bone away from the ankle during a sudden twist, fall, or sports movement. This injury often causes sharp pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty with weight-bearing. Because symptoms can closely resemble a severe ankle sprain, an avulsion fracture is sometimes overlooked without proper imaging. Pain is often felt on the outside of the ankle, especially during walking or standing. Recovery depends on the size of the fracture and the stability of the ankle joint. An ankle avulsion fracture can heal with rest, immobilization, and temporary activity restriction. A walking boot or brace may be used to protect the ankle while healing occurs. Gradual targeted exercise helps restore strength, balance, and mobility while lowering the risk of re-injury. If ankle pain persists after an injury, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Julie Jurd-Sadler, DPM from Progressive Podiatry. 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 Ijamsville and Mouth Airy, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle arthritis is a condition defined by inflammation and degeneration of the ankle joint, leading to pain and reduced mobility. It commonly develops from wear and tear, previous injuries, or excess stress placed on the joint. Symptoms include swelling, stiffness, cracking or grinding sensations, and pain that may worsen with activity. As the condition progresses with time, joint movement can become more limited, and daily activities may feel increasingly difficult. Being overweight can increase pressure on the ankle joint and accelerate joint breakdown. A podiatrist can evaluate ankle arthritis, confirm a diagnosis, and recommend treatments to reduce pain, improve function, and slow progression. If you have symptoms of ankle  arthritis, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief and management tips.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Julie Jurd-Sadler, DPM from Progressive Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Ijamsville and Mouth Airy, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain that develops when the thick band of tissue supporting the arch becomes strained or inflamed. It often begins gradually and is frequently linked to overuse, foot mechanics, prolonged standing, or unsupportive footwear. Symptoms usually include sharp or aching pain in the heel, stiffness after rest, and discomfort that improves slightly with movement but returns later in the day. The heel may look normal or mildly swollen, yet it can feel tender, tight, or burning with pressure. Common contributing factors include repetitive stress, tight calf muscles, and weight changes such as soreness, inflammation, and reduced flexibility. A podiatrist can help by starting with a detailed examination and imaging when necessary to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes of heel pain. Treatment often begins with footwear guidance, supportive devices, and custom orthotics, then progresses to medications, targeted exercises, or advanced procedures if symptoms persist. If you think you may have heel pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Julie Jurd-Sadler, DPM from Progressive Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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

Unusual sensations in the toes, such as pins and needles, burning, or reduced feeling, can interfere with walking and balance. These changes often relate to nerve irritation or reduced blood flow. Common causes include diabetes, nerve compression in the foot or lower leg, repetitive pressure from footwear, vitamin deficiencies, or lower back issues that affect nerve pathways. Prolonged sitting or standing may also contribute. Symptoms can range from mild tingling to complete loss of sensation, weakness, or sensitivity to temperature. Some people notice symptoms worsen at night or during activity, while others experience constant discomfort. Treatment depends on identifying the underlying cause. Care may involve footwear adjustments, orthotics, nerve-focused treatment, circulation support, or management of systemic conditions. Early evaluation helps prevent progression and protects mobility. If you have persistent or worsening changes in sensation in your toes, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a complete assessment involving a proper diagnosis and care.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Julie Jurd-Sadler, DPM of Progressive Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Ijamsville and Mouth Airy, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.