A broken ankle can affect the bones that connect the lower leg to the foot. The three main bones that make up the ankle are the tibia, or shin bone, the fibula, or smaller leg bone, and the talus, which helps connect the leg to the foot. A fracture can happen after a twisting injury, fall, or sudden impact. Pain is usually strong, and swelling and bruising can develop surrounding the ankle. Some patients cannot put weight on the injured foot or move the ankle normally. An ankle that looks out of place needs prompt medical attention. Early evaluation is important because a severe fracture can affect ankle stability and movement.

A podiatrist can examine the ankle and review imaging, such as  X-rays, to understand the location and severity of the break. The type of fracture helps determine the appropriate treatment. A stable fracture can sometimes heal with a protective boot or cast. A more serious or unstable fracture may require surgery to bring the bones back into proper position and help the ankle heal correctly. A podiatrist can also monitor the injury as it heals and check for problems with movement, pain, or swelling. Treatment plans are based on the specific fracture and the condition of the ankle.

Recovery from a broken ankle can take time, especially when more than one bone is injured. Some patients experience stiffness, soreness, or pain after the fracture has healed. An ankle fracture can also affect how the joint moves and can increase the chance of arthritis, which is a condition that causes joint pain and stiffness. A podiatrist can assess healing, monitor changes in movement, and help guide the return to normal activities. Follow-up care can also help identify concerns that could affect the ankle’s function. If you have broken your ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions. 

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Scott Samera, DPM from Samera / 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 office located in Lake City and Branford, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone and plays an important role in walking, running, and jumping. It handles strong forces when the foot pushes downward or the body lands after a jump. Achilles tendon injuries can range from irritation and small tears to a complete rupture. Repeated activity can weaken the tendon, while a sudden force can cause it to tear. Basketball, track, and volleyball can place high stress on this area because they involve frequent jumping and landing. However, an Achilles injury can occur in many sports and daily activities.

A rupture can happen when the knee is straight and the foot is suddenly pulled upward while the tendon is under heavy force. Patients can hear or feel a pop at the time of injury. They can also develop immediate weakness when pushing off the foot, making walking difficult. Previous Achilles tendon irritation can increase the risk of a rupture. Weak calf muscles and poor conditioning can also raise the risk. Some patients experience Achilles pain or other symptoms in the weeks before a complete tear occurs, making early evaluation important.

A podiatrist can examine the Achilles tendon and determine the location and severity of an injury. The evaluation can include checking foot movement, calf strength, and the tendon for a gap that can indicate a rupture. A podiatrist can then develop a treatment plan based on the injury and the patient's activity level. Treatment for serious tears can involve immobilization or surgery. Prompt care is important because an untreated rupture can become stiff and scarred, making repair more difficult. If you have an Achilles tendon injury, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions. 

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Scott Samera, DPM of Samera / Foot + Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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

Plantar warts are small, non-cancerous growths that develop on the bottom of the feet, often on weight bearing areas such as the heel or ball of the foot. They are caused by an infection from the human papillomavirus, or HPV,  which enters the skin through tiny cuts or abrasions. These warts can appear individually or in clusters and may become more noticeable over time. Understanding the definition of plantar warts helps individuals identify early signs and seek appropriate care.

Symptoms of plantar warts include a flat, gray brown colored growth that may blend in with the surrounding skin. One of the most distinct features is the presence of black dots in the center, which are small clotted blood vessels. Individuals often experience intense pain when walking or standing, as pressure pushes the wart inward. The affected area may also feel rough or thickened. Recognizing these symptoms can help distinguish plantar warts from other foot conditions such as calluses.

The primary cause of plantar warts is exposure to the human papillomavirus in warm, moist environments. Public places such as locker rooms, swimming pools, and communal showers can increase the risk of infection. Walking barefoot in these areas allows the virus to come into contact with the skin. Risk factors include weakened immune function, excessive sweating, and minor skin injuries that create entry points for the virus. Children and adolescents may be more susceptible, due to increased exposure and developing immune systems.

Preventing plantar warts involves maintaining proper foot hygiene, wearing protective footwear in shared spaces, and keeping the feet clean and dry. Early identification and care can reduce discomfort and prevent the spread of warts to other areas. Avoiding direct contact with existing warts is also important for limiting transmission. If you have developed a plantar wart, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Scott Samera, DPM from Samera / Foot + Ankle. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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

Ankle pain after running is a frequent concern for both new and experienced runners. It refers to discomfort or soreness that develops in or around the ankle joint following physical activity. The ankle is a complex structure made up of bones, ligaments, tendons, and muscles that work together to support movement and absorb impact. When stress exceeds the body’s ability to recover, pain can develop. Understanding the causes of ankle pain helps runners identify early warning signs and take steps to prevent further injury.

One common cause of ankle pain is tendonitis, which occurs when tendons become inflamed due to overuse. This condition often develops from repetitive motion, tight calf muscles, or improper running form. Symptoms include aching pain, stiffness, and swelling that may worsen during or after activity. Another frequent cause is an ankle sprain, which happens when the ligaments that support the ankle are stretched or torn. Sprains can result from uneven surfaces or sudden twisting movements. Symptoms include sharp pain, swelling, and bruising. Difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot is another factor.

Stress fractures are another potential source of ankle pain, especially in runners who increase intensity too quickly. These small cracks in the bone develop from repeated impact and insufficient recovery time. Symptoms include localized pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest. Limited ankle joint mobility can also contribute to discomfort, as restricted movement places added strain on surrounding structures. Runners may notice stiffness, reduced range of motion, or compensatory movement patterns that increase the risk of injury.

Risk factors for ankle pain after running include poor footwear, overtraining, and inadequate warm up,. Muscle imbalances and running on hard or uneven surfaces can further increase stress on the ankle joint. Proper training techniques, wearing supportive shoes, and gradual progression are essential for prevention. If you have ankle pain after running, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Scott Samera, DPM from Samera / Foot + Ankle. 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 tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• 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 Lake City and Branford, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.