Ankle injuries are prevalent in soccer due to the sport's fast-paced, high-impact nature. Common injuries include sprains, where ligaments are stretched or torn, and strains, affecting the muscles or tendons around the ankle. Achilles tendonitis, an inflammation of the tendon that connects the calf to the heel, is also common. Prevention is key to avoiding these injuries. Wearing properly fitted soccer shoes with good ankle support helps reduce the risk of sprains and strains. Strengthening and flexibility exercises, such as ankle circles and calf stretches, can enhance ankle stability and resilience. Employing proper techniques, including correct foot positioning and avoiding excessive twisting movements, also contributes to injury prevention. Regular warm-ups and conditioning are vital for maintaining overall foot and ankle health during the rigorous demands of soccer. If you have suffered an ankle injury while playing soccer, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you treatment and injury prevention techniques.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Dr. Kirk Sherris from Liberty Bay Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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

More than a quarter of people aged 65 and older fall each year. Among the factors that can lead to a fall at home are muscle weakness, loose throw rugs, and numbness in the feet. Unsafe footwear, such as backless shoes and high heels, is another factor. With a few preventative measures implemented, you can reduce the chances of falling and maintain an active life as a senior. Staying physically active is especially important as one age. Regular exercise improves muscle strength and can help keep your joints, tendons, and ligaments flexible. Standing up slowly after lying down or sitting for a prolonged period of time can help, along with using a cane or walker as needed to aid in balance. Wear shoes or slippers with non-skid soles that fully support the feet. If you feel that you have an increased risk for falls, or are planning a new exercise regime, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist for information on fall prevention and suggested treatment options.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Dr. Kirk Sherris from Liberty Bay Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

Peripheral neuropathy results from damage to the peripheral nerves, which transmit signals between the central nervous system and the rest of the body. This damage often leads to numbness, tingling, burning, and sharp pain in the feet. Diabetic neuropathy occurs in individuals with diabetes as a result of prolonged high blood sugar levels that damage the nerves. Symptoms in the feet may include a loss of sensation, making it difficult to detect injuries or a feeling of wearing tight socks when barefoot. These symptoms can significantly impact balance and mobility, increasing the risk of falls and infections. Proper management of blood sugar levels, in addition to medications and lifestyle changes, may help to alleviate symptoms of neuropathy. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Dr. Kirk Sherris from Liberty Bay Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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

Children’s footwear plays a significant role in the development of their feet and the way they walk, known as their gait. Shoes that are ill-fitted or lack proper support may lead to many foot conditions, such as flat feet, hammertoe, or even issues with posture and balance. Investing in properly fitting shoes helps children's feet grow correctly, supports a natural gait, and aids in maintaining good body alignment. Shoes that are too tight or too loose, can lead to discomfort, or possible long-term health issues. Children’s feet are still developing, and their bones, muscles, and ligaments are not fully formed. Wearing unsupportive footwear during these stages of life can cause permanent damage and affect their ability to participate in daily activities. Quality shoes should have a flexible sole to allow natural movement, plenty of room for the toes, and good arch support to encourage proper foot mechanics. If any issues regarding your child’s foot health arise, it is suggested to visit a podiatrist for a thorough exam and appropriate treatment.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Dr. Kirk Sherris of Liberty Bay Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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

Bruised toenails, also known as subungual hematomas, typically result from trauma or injury to the toe. The sensitive nail bed can easily sustain damage from sudden impact or repetitive pressure, leading to discoloration and discomfort. Trauma, such as stubbing the toe or dropping a heavy object on it, can cause blood vessels beneath the nail to rupture. This leads to the accumulation of blood and the characteristic dark discoloration, usually dark blue or black. If left untreated, bruised toenails can lead to a spread of discoloration or even nail detachment, along with an increased risk of infection. Proper footwear, especially for runners, and caution in high-risk activities are key factors in reducing the likelihood of trauma to the toenails. Recognizing the symptoms of bruised toenails enables individuals to seek timely treatment, prevent potential complications and promote faster recovery. If you've experienced a problematic bruised toenail, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment. 

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Kirk Sherris of Liberty Bay Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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