Foot and Ankle Injuries include:
• Sprains (ligament injuries)
• Strains (muscle injuries)
• Contusions
• Broken Bones
• Stress Fractures
• Shin Splints
• Infections
• Dislocations
• as well as many others.

Prevention
• Be sure to wear comfortable shoes for the specific activity (i.e. walking)
• In rugged areas, wear boots or hiking shoes
• Wear safe shoes for jobs that require them
• Lawnmowers require footwear with hard tops
• Do not walk barefoot outside, and be aware of wet surfaces
• Do not attempt to feel your way in the dark, turn on the light to avoid a possible fracture

What can a patient do?
• Seek treatment immediately for a suspected injury. Waiting could worsen the injury
• Remember RICE- rest, ice, compression, elevate
• If there is a bleeding, cut, apply pressure, clean the area, and put a dressing on it. Try to avoid putting medication on it without consulting a doctor
• Do not open blisters
• Foreign objects such as splinters or needles must be removed by a doctor
• Clean an abrasion, apply antibiotic cream, and cover it with sterile dressings

What can a podiatrist do for you?
• Examine the area
• Scan the area using the necessary imaging tool
• Put a cast or splint on the injury
• If necessary, prescribe medications
• Perform surgery to correct the injury
• Suggest physiotherapy
• Create custom ortheses