We provide expert treatment for ALL types of foot and ankle trauma: ankle fractures, Lisfranc injuries, metatarsal fractures, talus and calcaneus fractures, Achilles tendon ruptures, posterior tibial tendon tears, peroneal tendon tears, and ankle ligament sprains and tears. For more information, please contact our podiatrist in NYC.
Ankle Fractures
Ankle fractures can develop through a multitude of stimulants. Commonly, simply rolling your ankle inward or outward catalyzes this type of injury. With us now being fully submerged in winter, the risk of obtaining an ankle injury or fracture increases drastically. Slipping and falling on ice is one of the most frequent occurrences for triggering these injuries. By taking preventative measures, your safety will be improved, and this will decrease the risk of ankle fracture. Remember, be careful while engaging in your daily activities during this time and wear proper footwear to help create traction and promote balance.
Metatarsal Fractures
Structurally, the metatarsal is composed of five bones in the foot. You can find them behind each toe, as they are the long bones in the foot. Typically, metatarsal surgery is recommended for the treatment of the following conditions:
- Bunion Deformity
- Tailor’s Bunion Deformity
- Painful Calluses (Found on the bottom of the foot)
- Ulcerations (that have not been healing)
- Fractures
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
Talus and Calcaneus (Heel Bone) Fractures
The foot is made up of three main parts: the midfoot, hindfoot, and forefoot. The calcaneus, or heel bone, is located in the hindfoot. It is located beneath three bones that make up the ankle joint: tibia, fibula, and talus. The heel bone and the talus make up what is called the subtalar joint. This joint allows for sideways movement of the hindfoot and promotes balance on uneven surfaces.
Although uncommon, fractures of the calcaneus can occur. Only 2% of all adult fractures are of tarsal bones, and only about half of those are calcaneus fractures. There are several ways that the calcaneus can become fractured. Common catalysts may include the following:
- Twisting injury.
- Motor vehicle accident.
- Fall from an elevated surface.
Achilles Tendon Ruptures
An Achilles tendon rupture is a complete or partial tear that occurs when the tendon is stretched beyond its capacity. Forceful jumping or pivoting, or sudden accelerations of running, can overstretch the tendon and cause a tear. An injury to the tendon can also result from falling or tripping. A rupture may also be the result of chronic disorder or degeneration of the Achilles tendon (“the straw that broke the camel’s back”). Achilles tendon ruptures are most often seen in “weekend warriors” – typically, middle-aged people participating in sports in their spare time. Less commonly, illness or medications, such as steroids or certain antibiotics, may weaken the tendon and contribute to ruptures.
Peroneal Tendon Tears
Depending on your specific condition, peroneal tendon injuries can be either acute (sudden) or chronic (developing). Athletes that participate in activities involving repetitive ankle movements are highly susceptible to these types of complications. Those who have higher foot arches are also at risk of developing issues. Without proper treatment, peroneal tendon injuries can easily worsen over time. Prompt podiatrist attention is critical upon experiencing symptoms. Foot and Ankle Surgeons of New York, a podiatrist in NYC, can evaluate your condition and diagnose your injury. Depending on your case, there are non-surgical and surgical options.
Ankle Sprain
An ankle sprain is an injury to one or more ligaments in the ankle, usually on the outside of the ankle. Ligaments are bands of tissue – like rubber bands – that connect one bone to another and bind the joints together. In the ankle joint, ligaments provide stability by limiting side-to-side movement. Some ankle sprains are much worse than others. The severity of an ankle sprain depends on whether the ligament is stretched, partially torn, or completely torn, as well as on the number of ligaments involved. Ankle sprains are not the same as strains, which affect muscles rather than ligaments.