top of page
Search

For Many, Winter is Fall Season

With the hectic pace of the holidays, serious injuries from ice-related falls inevitably occur. Falls on icy surfaces are a major cause of ankle sprains and fractures, and it’s critical to seek prompt treatment to prevent further damage that can prolong recovery.

Elizabeth Horton, DPM, FACFAS says the ankle joint is vulnerable to serious injury from hard falls on ice.

“Ice accelerates the fall and often causes more severe trauma because the foot can go in any direction after slipping," she says.

Horton is a member of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS) with an office in Kalamazoo, MI. She adds that in cases of less severe fractures and sprains, it’s possible to walk and mistakenly believe the injury doesn’t require medical treatment.

“Never assume the ability to walk means your ankle isn’t broken or badly sprained," she says. "Putting weight on the injured joint can worsen the problem and lead to chronic instability, joint pain and arthritis later in life."

Some people may fracture and sprain an ankle at the same time, and a bad sprain can mask the fracture.

“It’s best to have an injured ankle evaluated as soon as possible for proper diagnosis and treatment,” says Dr. Horton. “If you can’t see a foot and ankle surgeon or visit the emergency room right away, follow the RICE technique – Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation – until medical care is available.”

According to the ACFAS consumer Web site, FootHealthFacts.org, even though symptoms of ankle sprains and fractures are similar, fractures are associated with:

-Pain at the site of the fracture that can extend from the foot to the knee

-Significant swelling

-Blisters over the fracture site

-Bruising soon after the injury

-Bone protruding through the skin—a compound fracture, which requires immediate attention!

Most ankle fractures and some sprains are treated by immobilizing the joint in a cast or splint to foster union and healing. However, surgery may be needed to repair fractures with significant malalignment to unite bone fragments and realign them properly.

Dr. Horton said newly designed surgical plates and screws allow repair of these injuries with less surgical trauma.

“With newer bone-fixation methods, there are smaller incisions to minimize tissue damage and bleeding and accelerate the healing process,” she says.

Dr. Horton recommends scheduling an appointment with her office if you have injured your ankle in any way.

“If you fall on an icy spot and hurt your ankle, the best advice is to seek medical attention immediately," she says. "This aids in early diagnosis and proper treatment of the ankle injury and reduces the risk of further damage.”

For further information about ankle fractures and sprains or other foot and ankle problems, contact Kalamazoo Foot Surgery at 269-344-0874.

 
 
 

留言


Single Post: Blog_Single_Post_Widget

(269) 344-0874

Fax (269) 344-7256

1212 S Park St #1, Kalamazoo, MI 49001, USA

  • facebook
  • googlePlaces

©2018 by Kalamazoo Foot Surgery PC: Tiller Rick W DPM. Proudly created with Wix.com

Taking blood pressue

The Care You Deserve

Diabetic foot care

 At Kalamazoo Foot Surgery, we understand the importance of patient education.   Diabetes is a chronic disease increasing the risk factors for foot ulcers, infections and amputation. We strive to focus on proper foot care and preventative measures to keep you on your feet. We are dedicated to building long-lasting relationships based on trust and medical integrity with every single patient. 

Mani Pedi

Pain  relief

Ingrown toenails

 Within minutes, we can permanently correct ingrown toenails with cosmetically pleasing results.  We meet patients daily who say “I wish I had come here years ago!”

Treadmill

Keep moving

Sports medicine

Through a holistic approach to medicine, we try to view each patient as a whole rather than a single symptom to be treated. Whether you are a professional athlete or enjoy staying active on your own, we want to keep you doing what you love! We treat ankle sprains, fractures, tendinitis, plantar fasciitis and any other foot aches and pains. Let us help!

bottom of page