An injury that causes pain, swelling, and difficulty moving may be an ankle sprain or a fracture. A sprain occurs when the ligaments are stretched or torn. These strong bands of tissue connect bones and help keep the ankle stable. A fracture is a crack or break in an ankle bone. Either injury can result from a fall, sudden twist, or hard impact. Since an accident can damage both bones and ligaments, symptoms alone may not identify the injury.

Sprains and fractures can both cause pain, bruising, and swelling. Pain from a sprain is usually centered in the softer tissue around the joint, while fracture pain can be strongest directly over a bone. A cracking sound, unusual angle, or exposed bone can indicate a fracture. Some patients with a sprain can put weight on the ankle, but walking can be painful. A fracture can make standing or walking impossible. However, the ability to move the ankle or bear weight does not rule out a broken bone. Because these signs can overlap, a professional examination is important. An injury that is not treated correctly can lead to lasting pain, weakness, or ankle instability.

A podiatrist asks how the injury happened, examines the painful area, and checks the ankle’s movement. X-rays can show most fractures and reveal whether the bones remain properly aligned. Other imaging tests may be needed to diagnose a sprain and determine the extent of ligament damage. Treatment depends on the location and severity of the injury. A podiatrist can stabilize the ankle with a brace, splint, or cast. Severe fractures can require surgery to restore the position of the bones. A major ligament tear can also require surgery when the ankle remains unstable. Follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to monitor healing and adjust the treatment plan. If you have injured your ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Paul Hutchison, DPM from Hutchison Foot Clinic. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Memphis, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition that develops when the tibial nerve becomes compressed as it passes through a narrow space on the inside of the ankle called the tarsal tunnel. This pressure can interfere with normal nerve function and cause discomfort in the foot and ankle. Symptoms often include burning pain, tingling, or numbness that may spread into the heel, arch, or toes. Some people also experience sharp, shooting pain that becomes worse when standing or walking. The symptoms may appear gradually or develop after an injury. Because several foot conditions can produce similar symptoms, a professional evaluation is important to determine the underlying cause and recommend the most appropriate treatment.

Several factors can contribute to tarsal tunnel syndrome, including flat feet, injuries, and swelling around the ankle. Inflammation or nearby growths may also place pressure on the tibial nerve. As nerve compression continues, symptoms may become more frequent and begin to affect balance or normal walking. Persistent nerve irritation can also make daily activities less comfortable. A thorough podiatry evaluation helps identify the source of the nerve compression and determine whether another condition is contributing to the symptoms. Early diagnosis allows treatment to begin before the condition progresses and causes more significant nerve-related problems.

A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating tarsal tunnel syndrome by evaluating foot structure, ankle function, and walking mechanics. Professional treatment is based on the underlying cause and focuses on relieving pressure on the affected nerve while improving overall foot function. Early podiatry care may also help reduce discomfort, improve mobility, and lower the risk of long-term nerve damage. Regular follow-up visits allow your progress to be monitored and treatment to be adjusted when needed. If numbness, tingling, or pain in your foot or ankle is affecting your daily activities, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Paul Hutchison, DPM of Hutchison Foot Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Memphis, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot pain from Zumba refers to discomfort or injury caused by repetitive dance fitness movements performed on hard surfaces or with improper support. Zumba involves quick turns, jumps, and side- to-side motion that place stress on the plantar fascia, joints, and soft tissue. Without proper preparation and footwear, these movements can lead to strain and overuse injuries. Understanding the physical demands of dance fitness is essential for preventing pain and maintaining safe participation.

Common symptoms include arch soreness, heel pain, and a burning sensation after class. Some individuals experience sharp pain during pivoting movements or lingering stiffness the next day. Risk factors include wearing the wrong shoes that lack lateral support, exercising on cement floors, and skipping proper warm-up techniques. Beginners who do not take a preparation class may also struggle with foot positioning, increasing the risk of strain. These factors can lead to conditions such as plantar fasciitis, tendon irritation, and stress related injuries.

Prevention begins with wearing supportive cross-training shoes designed for multidirectional movement. Avoiding cement or other hard surfaces can reduce impact stress on the feet. Taking a preparation class helps build proper technique and teaches safe movement patterns. Gradual progression in intensity allows the feet to adapt to increased activity. Stretching before and after class, including simple foot and ankle exercises, can improve flexibility and reduce stiffness. These strategies support both performance and injury prevention.

The key takeaway is that Zumba can be enjoyable and beneficial when proper precautions are taken. Paying attention to footwear, surface choice, and technique significantly lowers the risk of foot pain. Early recognition of symptoms allows for prompt care and recovery. If you enjoy Zumba and have developed foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Paul Hutchison, DPM from Hutchison Foot Clinic. 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 Memphis, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A foot stress fracture is a small crack in a bone caused by repeated pressure. It develops when bone tissue breaks down faster than the body can rebuild it. Runners, dancers, and athletes in high-impact sports face greater risk. A sudden increase in training can place too much strain on the feet. Other risk factors include low bone strength, poor foot alignment, and shoes that lack proper support. Pain usually develops gradually and worsens with activity. Swelling and tenderness can occur near the injured bone.

A podiatrist can determine whether the pain comes from a stress fracture or another foot problem. The examination includes a review of recent activities, the location of tenderness, and changes in training habits. X-rays can help identify a fracture, but a hairline crack does not always appear. A podiatrist can order an MRI scan or another imaging test for a closer view. Early diagnosis is important because continued pressure can enlarge the crack and delay healing. A serious fracture can also move out of its normal position. Surgery is rarely required, but it can become necessary when a fracture is unstable or fails to heal properly.

Rest from the activity that caused the injury gives the bone time to heal. A podiatrist can protect the foot with a walking boot, cast, or crutches. The choice depends on the injured bone and the severity of the crack. Follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to track healing and decide when activity can safely resume. Returning too quickly raises the chance of another injury. Prevention includes increasing training by no more than 10 percent each week and avoiding sudden changes in intensity. Patients should choose well-fitting shoes designed for their activity and replace worn-out pairs. A podiatrist can assess foot structure, recommend custom orthotics, and guide a safe return to exercise. If you have symptoms of a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Paul Hutchison, DPM from Hutchison Foot Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Memphis, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.