Pickleball has become a popular way for adults to stay active, but the quick starts, sudden stops, and side-to-side movement can place significant stress on the lower body. Foot and ankle injuries are not uncommon, especially in players who return to sports after time away, or increase activity too quickly. Common problems include ankle sprains, tendon strain, heel pain, stress injuries, and irritation in the ball of the foot. Poor footwear, uneven court movement, and limited flexibility may raise the risk. A podiatrist can evaluate pain, swelling, instability, or movement changes to determine the cause and recommend treatment that supports safe recovery. Care may include bracing, custom inserts, targeted exercises, activity modification, or additional imaging, when needed. Addressing symptoms early may help prevent a minor injury from becoming a longer setback. If pickleball is causing foot or ankle pain, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist.

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 Kelly Whaley, DPM from Ohio. 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 contact our office located in Willoughby, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The peripheral nervous system is responsible for sending signals between parts of the body and the central nervous system. If it becomes damaged due to medical conditions such as diabetes, neuropathy may gradually develop. Symptoms include muscle weakness, numbing or tingling sensations, and the feet may feel cold. Other causes of this ailment may include narrowing of the arteries which can happen from smoking, existing autoimmune diseases, or hormonal imbalances. This condition can cause the inability to feel cuts, bruises, or wounds on the feet, which may become infected if left untreated. If you have any of these symptoms, it is suggested that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can help you manage neuropathy. 

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 Kelly Whaley, DPM from Ohio. 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 Willoughby, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pain in the ball of the foot, also called metatarsal pain, is a common problem that affects the area just behind the toes. It often develops from repeated pressure or uneven weight distribution when walking or standing. Wearing high-heeled shoes can force extra stress onto the front of the foot, leading to irritation and inflammation. Conditions such as arthritis may cause joint swelling and stiffness, while bunions can shift alignment and increase pressure in this area. Risk factors include foot shape, aging, and high impact activities. People may notice burning pain, tenderness, or a feeling of walking on a small stone. A podiatrist can identify the cause, use imaging, if needed, and provide custom orthotics or other treatments to relieve discomfort and improve function. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide effective relief and treatment solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Kelly Whaley, DPM from Ohio. 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 Willoughby, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ingrown toenails, which account for about 20 percent of all foot issues, develop when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin. The affected toe may look red, swollen, and tender. In some cases, pus or an infection may develop. An ingrown toenail may feel painful or sore, especially when wearing shoes or applying pressure. Common causes include improper nail trimming, wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear, injury to the toe, or hereditary nail shape. A podiatrist can begin by examining the nail and surrounding tissue, assessing the severity of the ingrown nail, and checking for infection. Treatment may include safe removal of the ingrown portion, guidance on proper nail care, and infection management, if needed. Recommendations for protective footwear or orthotics to reduce pressure may be provided. In chronic or severe cases, minor surgery may be performed to prevent recurrence. Because early professional care reduces pain and prevents complications, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Kelly Whaley, DPM of Ohio. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

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

Ankle sprains can occur when active children twist or roll the ankle during sports, running, or jumping. An ankle  sprain affects the ligaments, which are strong bands that hold the joint together. A sprain can cause pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. Some children may feel that the ankle is unstable or weak after the injury. Proper care is important because repeated sprains can lead to long-term joint problems. A podiatrist can examine the ankle, check how the joint moves, and order imaging to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment plans focus on restoring strength, flexibility, and balance, which helps support the ankle and reduce the risk of future injury. Guided exercises may be prescribed to improve coordination and safe return to activity. If your child has symptoms of an ankle sprain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Kelly Whaley, DPM from Ohio. 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 take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

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

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

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