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Symptoms of a Broken Ankle

Tuesday, 30 June 2026

A broken ankle occurs when one or more of the bones that form the ankle joint fracture. This injury can result from a fall, sports-related accident, twisting injury, or motor vehicle collision. The severity of a broken ankle can vary, ranging from a small crack in the bone to multiple fractures that affect the stability of the joint. Symptoms include severe ankle pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty putting weight on the affected foot. In some cases, the ankle may appear misshapen or unstable. Because many ankle injuries share similar symptoms, a professional evaluation is necessary to determine whether a fracture is present.

A broken ankle can significantly affect mobility and daily activities. Walking, climbing stairs, and standing for extended periods may become difficult or impossible. If the fracture is not properly diagnosed and treated, it can lead to long-term complications, such as chronic ankle pain, joint instability, or post-traumatic arthritis. Imaging studies, such as X-rays, are often needed to identify the location and severity of the fracture. Prompt diagnosis is important because treatment plans vary depending on the type of fracture and whether the bones remain in proper alignment.

A podiatrist is a foot and ankle specialist who can diagnose and manage broken ankles and other ankle injuries. During an evaluation, a podiatrist will assess symptoms, examine the ankle joint, and review imaging results to determine the most appropriate course of treatment. Depending on the severity of the fracture, treatment may involve immobilization, bracing, fracture management, or surgical care. Ongoing monitoring is often important to ensure proper healing and restore ankle function. Early podiatric care can help reduce the risk of complications and support a safe return to normal activities. If you have severe ankle pain, swelling, bruising, difficulty walking, or other symptoms that may indicate a broken ankle, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Janet Leicht from New Jersey. 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 Berkeley Heights, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Understanding Toe Walking in Children

Tuesday, 23 June 2026

Toe walking happens when a child walks primarily on the balls of the feet instead of placing the heels down in a typical walking pattern. In some cases, this walking style may be linked to muscle, nerve, or structural conditions, but many children show this pattern without a clearly identifiable medical reason. For some families, it is mainly a concern because of how the walking looks, while others notice balance problems, tight muscles, discomfort, or difficulty with activity. Evaluation includes a detailed medical history, physical examination, and, when needed, further testing to look for underlying causes. Treatment depends on the child’s age, how long the pattern has been present, and whether tightness has developed in the calf or Achilles area. Care may include stretching programs, supportive devices, or other interventions to improve movement. If your child continues to walk on their toes, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an evaluation and management tips.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Dr. Janet Leicht of New Jersey. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’.

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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

Facts About Ingrown Toenails

Tuesday, 16 June 2026

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing irritation and pain. This condition often appears as redness, swelling, and tenderness along the nail border, and may lead to drainage or infection if untreated. Common causes include improper nail trimming, tight footwear, toe injuries, and natural nail shape. Risk factors include diabetes, poor circulation, excessive sweating, and repetitive pressure on the toes. A podiatrist can relieve discomfort by removing the ingrown portion safely, treating infection, and guiding proper nail growth. They may also address underlying nail deformities, provide guidance on footwear, and use specialized techniques to prevent recurrence while protecting surrounding tissue. If you have a painful ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment, which may include minor surgery.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Janet Leicht of New Jersey. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

Improper toenail trimming
Genetics
Improper shoe fitting
Injury from pedicures or nail picking
Abnormal gait
Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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

Gout Pain Can Be Managed

Wednesday, 10 June 2026

Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.

Why Persistent Foot Pain Should Not Be Ignored

Tuesday, 09 June 2026

Ongoing foot or ankle pain can make walking, exercise, and even standing through a normal day uncomfortable. Several common conditions can be responsible, including nerve irritation between the toes, inflammation of the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot, or strain involving the tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel. Although the pain may feel similar at first, each condition has different causes and treatment approaches. A podiatrist can determine the source of discomfort through an exam, and recommend a care plan based on the diagnosis. Treatment may include custom shoe inserts, guided stretching, and temporary activity changes, in addition to targeted exercise therapy, or injections to reduce irritation. Early treatment may help prevent worsening symptoms and improve mobility before pain becomes more limiting. If you have consistent foot or ankle pain that interferes with daily movement, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate care.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Janet Leicht from New Jersey. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

Bunions
Hammertoes
Plantar Fasciitis
Bone Spurs
Corns
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Ingrown Toenails
Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
Flat Feet
Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

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