An ankle sprain occurs when the foot twists or rolls, causing the ligaments, which are strong bands of tissue that support the joint, to stretch or tear. An ankle sprain often happens while playing sports, walking or running on uneven surfaces, or sudden changes in direction. Risk factors include previous sprains, loose joints, and certain foot shapes that make the ankle less stable. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. A podiatrist can perform a detailed exam to assess ligament damage and check for more serious injuries. Imaging and X-rays may be used to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment depends on the severity and includes bracing, controlled movement, and structured rehabilitation to restore strength and balance. In more severe or repeated cases, advanced care or surgery may be needed to improve stability. If you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for immediate care.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Bryan Sullivan, DPM from Mississippi Foot 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 are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

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

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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

Gout is a form of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the body, leading to the formation of sharp crystals in the joints. It most commonly affects the big toe and can cause sudden and intense pain. Symptoms include redness, swelling, warmth, and severe tenderness in the affected area. Causes may include diet high in purines, dehydration, and reduced kidney function. Risk factors include obesity, alcohol use, certain medications, and family history. Men are more likely to develop gout due to higher uric acid levels and hormonal differences. A podiatrist can help by diagnosing the condition, managing pain, and recommending lifestyle changes. If you have pain in your big toe or surrounding areas, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you manage this painful condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Bryan Sullivan, DPM from Mississippi Foot Center . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain that occurs when the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot becomes irritated. Many people notice sharp pain with the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. Treatment focuses on reducing strain and allowing the tissue to recover. Simple changes such as wearing supportive shoes, avoiding walking barefoot, and modifying daily activity can make a meaningful difference. Stretching the calf and arch can also help improve flexibility and reduce tension. In some cases, custom orthotics or night splints are used to provide added support and maintain proper positioning during rest. When symptoms persist, additional options, such as injections or surgery, may be recommended to address inflammation and promote healing. Early care often leads to better outcomes and prevents the condition from becoming long-lasting. If heel pain continues, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Bryan Sullivan, DPM from Mississippi Foot Center . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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

Ankle pain is common among runners because each step places force on the ankle joint. Over time, this pressure can lead to injury. One likely cause is an ankle sprain, which occurs when ligaments, the bands that connect bones, stretch or tear after a twist. Another is an ankle strain, resulting from tearing or overstretching the muscles or tendons attached to the bones. Inflammation of a tendon may develop from overuse or changes in training distance, while stress fractures are hairline cracks in a bone caused by repeated impact. Runners may notice swelling, tenderness, weakness, or pain that worsens during activity. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure and joint stability to find the source of discomfort. Treatment may include bracing and orthotics to improve proper alignment and reduce strain. If you are experiencing ankle pain from running, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

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 Bryan Sullivan, DPM of Mississippi Foot 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 office located in Jackson, MS . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.