An ankle sprain happens when the ligaments that support the joint stretch beyond their limit, often from a sudden twist, misstep, or uneven surface. Many people feel an immediate sharp pain followed by swelling, tenderness, or bruising around the outside of the ankle. Putting weight on the foot may become difficult, and the joint can feel unstable or weak. Even mild sprains can linger if they are ignored, leading to repeated injuries and long-term stiffness. Early care, including rest and proper support, helps the ligaments heal in a stable position and reduces the chance of chronic instability. Paying attention to discomfort during walking or exercise can prevent the injury from worsening. If ankle swelling, pain, or instability continues, it is suggested  that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper evaluation and guidance.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Robert Dunne, DPM from Lake Washington Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Melbourne and Palm Bay, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A hairline fracture is a very small break in a bone that can cause significant discomfort, even though it may not be obvious at first. Many people notice a gradual increase in pain during walking or standing, especially after repetitive activity. Swelling, tenderness, and mild bruising may appear, and the discomfort often improves with rest but quickly returns with movement. These tiny cracks commonly develop from overuse, wearing improper footwear, or sudden increases in activity levels. Without early attention, the injury can worsen and interfere with mobility. Recognizing the signs promptly helps protect long-term foot health and supports a smoother recovery. If you notice persistent soreness, swelling, or pain that intensifies with activity, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Robert Dunne, DPM from Lake Washington Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Melbourne and Palm Bay, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Runners push their feet through repetitive impact, quick transitions, and changing terrains, which makes certain running injuries more likely to develop. Sore arches, tight calves, and aching heels are common early signs that the tissues are working harder than they should. Over time, this strain can lead to plantar fasciitis, stress reactions in the bones, tendon irritation, or painful blisters that make every step feel more demanding. Some runners also notice numbness, burning, or tingling when shoes are too tight or if the foot structure needs more support. These issues often start small, but can quickly disrupt training if ignored. Paying attention to shoe fit, gradually increasing mileage, and allowing proper recovery between runs can make a significant difference. Listening to early symptoms helps prevent long-term injury and keeps running enjoyable. If discomfort persists, interferes with your stride, or continues after rest, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for evaluation and appropriate care.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Robert Dunne, DPM of Lake Washington Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries? 
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Melbourne and Palm Bay, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.