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Total ankle replacement is a surgical option designed to relieve pain and restore motion in people with severe ankle arthritis. Not everyone qualifies for this procedure. Ideal candidates usually have advanced joint damage that has not improved with conservative care such as bracing, injections, or targeted exercises. Good bone quality and stable ligaments are important to support the implant. Overall health also matters, as healing and long-term outcomes depend on circulation, skin integrity, and the ability to follow postoperative instructions. Patients with significant deformity, active infection, or severe nerve damage may not be appropriate candidates. Activity level is considered as well, since high impact demands can shorten implant lifespan. A thorough evaluation helps determine whether replacement or another treatment is more appropriate. If ankle arthritis is causing ongoing pain or limited mobility, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment that is best for you.

In certain cases, in which the patient suffers from extreme pain or damage in a joint, joint replacement surgery may be deemed useful. If you have constant pain in a foot joint, consult with one of our podiatrists from Centers for Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Joint Replacement Surgery?

Over time, joints wear down; this can be exacerbated by diseases and conditions. Joint replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty, is when a damaged joint is surgically removed and replaced with a prosthesis. Prostheses, which can be made of ceramic, plastic, or metal, act as joints in lieu of an actual joint. One of the most prevalent causes for joint replacement is arthritis.

Arthritis in the Foot

Arthritis can occur in any joint in the body, including in the feet. Common types of arthritis in the foot are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. The big toe is usually where arthritis occurs in the foot; this is known as hallux rigidus.

Joint Replacement Surgery in the Foot

The most common form of joint replacement in the foot is a first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint placement. MTP joint replacement surgery is designed to treat hallux rigidus. Surgery is not intensive, and recovery occurs within one to two months after the procedure has been done. Overall, joint replacement surgery is a safe and effective way to treat pain in the joint of the foot.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Merrillville, Portage, Michigan City/LaPorte, and Schererville, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Standing for long periods of time places constant pressure on the muscles, joints, and ligaments of the feet, often leading to soreness, fatigue, and inflammation. Common causes of foot pain include muscle overuse, poor circulation, inadequate arch support, and hard work surfaces. Relief can begin with simple stretching exercises such as the towel stretch, which gently lengthens the calf and plantar fascia using a towel for support. Additionally, the toe extension, which improves flexibility by pulling the toes upward to stretch the bottom of the foot. Wearing compression socks may help reduce swelling and improve circulation, while taking frequent breaks allows tissues to recover. A podiatrist can identify biomechanical problems, recommend supportive footwear or custom orthotics, and create a personalized care plan. If you have foot pain from standing most of the day, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide effective relief, treatment, and prevention solutions.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Centers for Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Merrillville, Portage, Michigan City/LaPorte, and Schererville, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle impingement describes a problem where tissue or bone inside the ankle joint gets caught during movement. This pinching can develop after repeated ankle sprains, ongoing swelling, or years of stress on the joint. Pain is often felt at the front or back of the ankle, and may worsen when walking uphill, squatting, climbing stairs, or pushing off the foot. Some people notice stiffness, swelling, or a feeling that the ankle catches or blocks movement. Over time, extra tissue or small bone changes can form, making motion more limited and uncomfortable. These symptoms can interfere with exercise, work, and daily walking, if not addressed. Identifying the cause early helps prevent further joint irritation and long-term damage. If ankle pain, stiffness, or swelling continues or affects mobility, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Centers for Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors 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 tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• 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 one of our offices located in Merrillville, Portage, Michigan City/LaPorte, and Schererville, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Cracked heels occur when the skin around the heel becomes excessively dry and thick, then splits. The heels may look rough, or yellowed, with visible lines or deep fissures that can sometimes bleed. The skin often feels tight and itchy, especially when standing or walking for long periods. Causes include dry weather, prolonged standing, and certain medical conditions like diabetes or skin disorders. A podiatrist can help from the start by accurately diagnosing the severity of the cracks and identifying contributing factors. Early treatment may include safe debridement of thickened skin, prescription moisturizers, and infection prevention. Care can then progress into customized treatment plans, footwear recommendations, and long-term skin care education to prevent recurrence. Proper foot care can improve comfort and restore skin health. If you are dealing with painful cracked heels, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Centers for Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Merrillville, Portage, Michigan City/LaPorte, and Schererville, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.