Items filtered by date: June 2025

Ankle pain when walking can result from injuries, overuse, or underlying conditions that affect the foot and ankle structure. Common causes include sprains, which involve stretched or torn ligaments, and fractures, where one or more ankle bones break and may shift out of place. Overuse injuries such as tendonitis, bursitis, and plantar fasciitis often develop gradually and worsen with continued walking. Conditions like arthritis, gout, or posterior tibial tendon dysfunction can also cause ankle pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. A podiatrist can perform a thorough physical exam, review your medical history, and use diagnostic tools such as X-rays or MRI scans to identify the source of ankle pain. Treatment options include supportive bracing, shoe modifications, and injections. In some cases, surgery may be needed to repair damaged tendons, realign bones, or even replace the ankle joint. If you are experiencing pain while walking, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a 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 James Torhorst, DPM  from Torhorst Foot and Ankle. 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 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 our offices located in Waupaca and Stevens Point, WI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

In some people with diabetes, nerve pain in the feet may be linked to changes in blood flow. This type of nerve problem, often called painful diabetic neuropathy, causes burning, tingling, or sharp sensations, especially at night. Researchers have found that blood vessels supplying the nerves may not work properly in these cases. When blood flow is reduced or becomes uneven, the nerves do not get enough oxygen and nutrients, which can lead to pain or damage. These changes may also make the feet more sensitive to temperature or touch. Better control of blood sugar, along with medications and foot care, can help ease discomfort and protect the nerves. If diabetic nerve pain is interfering with daily life or sleep, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a full evaluation, in addition to discussing ways to improve comfort and circulation.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact James Torhorst, DPM from Torhorst Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Waupaca and Stevens Point, WI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A cut on the bottom of the foot requires prompt and careful attention from a podiatrist to prevent infection and promote healing. This begins by gently cleaning the area with warm water and mild soap to remove dirt and debris. After the wound is cleaned, it is inspected for signs of foreign objects, excessive bleeding, or indicators of infection such as redness or swelling. The area is kept dry and covered with a clean dressing can support healing. Avoid walking barefoot to prevent further injury. If the cut is deep, painful, or not healing properly, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an immediate appointment with a podiatrist who can ensure the foot wound heals correctly and helps prevent complications that could affect mobility and overall foot health.

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 James Torhorst, DPM from Torhorst Foot and Ankle. 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 feel free to contact our offices located in Waupaca and Stevens Point, WI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.