Regaining strength after spraining an ankle is essential for stability and prevention of repeat injuries. A sprain stretches or tears ligaments, the strong bands that hold the joint together, leading to weakness and poor control of movement. Early recovery focuses on improving range of motion, meaning how well the ankle can move in different directions. As healing progresses, strengthening exercises target the muscles and tendons that support the joint. This helps the ankle handle weight and movement again. Balance training is also important, as it improves coordination and reduces the risk of chronic sprains. A podiatrist can guide this process by evaluating joint function, recommending supportive bracing, and prescribing custom orthotics to improve alignment and reduce strain. They may also design a structured rehabilitation plan to rebuild strength safely and effectively. If you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Kenneth Williams, DPM from Texas. 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 San Antonio and Beeville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Negative pressure wound therapy is an advanced method used to help foot wounds heal more efficiently. It works by applying gentle suction through a sealed dressing placed over the wound. This controlled suction removes excess fluid, reduces swelling, and helps improve blood flow to the area. Better circulation brings oxygen and nutrients that support healing. The therapy also promotes the growth of new tissue, which fills in the wound over time. Keeping the wound clean and reducing bacteria lowers the risk of infection. A podiatrist carefully prepares the wound, selects the proper dressing, and adjusts pressure levels based on the wound type to ensure safe care. This treatment is often used for slow-healing wounds, including ulcers or surgical sites. If you have foot wounds that are slow to heal, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Kenneth Williams, DPM from Texas. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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

Plantar fasciitis surgery is considered when persistent heel pain fails to improve with appropriate nonsurgical care. One option, an endoscopic plantar fasciotomy, releases a portion of the tight fascia through small incisions. Benefits include less tissue trauma than open procedures, quicker return to activity, and proven success in reducing chronic heel pain. However, this surgery has risks. Some patients develop lingering discomfort, nerve irritation, arch weakness, or altered foot mechanics if excessive tissue is released. Recovery restrictions still apply, and relief is not guaranteed. A podiatrist confirms the diagnosis, reviews imaging, and rules out other causes of heel pain before recommending surgery. Proper surgical planning and follow up monitoring help limit complications and support healing. The podiatrist also explains expected outcomes and recovery timelines before scheduling procedures. If you have pain from plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to find out if surgery is a viable choice for you.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Kenneth Williams, DPM from Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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

A weekend athlete is someone who exercises intensely on days off after being mostly sedentary during the week. This pattern can place sudden stress on feet and ankles. Common injuries include ankle sprains, plantar fascia irritation, Achilles tendon strain, stress fractures, and tendon inflammation. Wearing poor footwear, uneven surfaces, and skipping warm ups can increase risk. Symptoms may involve swelling, stiffness, bruising, or sharp pain during movement. Diagnosis starts with a detailed history of activity and onset of pain, followed by a physical exam. Imaging may be used to evaluate bones, ligaments, and soft tissue. Early attention helps prevent repeat injury and supports safer return to recreational sports. When foot or ankle pain lingers after weekend activity or interferes with daily walking, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate care.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Kenneth Williams, DPM of Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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