A toe fracture can occur when a toe is stubbed, struck, or caught against an object. Most toe fractures heal without major problems, but fractures involving a symphalangeal toe can require a longer healing period. Symphalangism is a condition present from birth in which two bones in a toe are joined at the joint between them. It most often affects the smaller toes. Because the joined bones create a stiffer toe, the area has less flexibility when force is placed on it. This can increase the chance of a fracture after an injury. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and tenderness around the injured toe. Some patients also have difficulty walking comfortably because of pain and stiffness.

A podiatrist can examine the toe and use X-rays to determine whether a fracture is present. The examination helps identify the location and severity of the injury. Fractures involving a symphalangeal toe can behave differently from typical fractures of the smaller toes. Healing can take longer because the joined bones have different structural and blood-flow characteristics. In reported cases, patients treated without surgery eventually reached complete healing, but the healing period was longer than expected for many patients. Complete healing took an average of several months, with some fractures requiring substantially longer periods. This delayed healing does not necessarily mean that the fracture will fail to heal. Regular evaluation helps track changes and confirms that the bone is progressing toward healing.

Treatment depends on the location and condition of the fracture. A podiatrist can monitor the toe with follow-up examinations and X-rays to track healing. Care can also include protecting the injured toe and limiting stress placed on the fracture while healing takes place. Most symphalangeal fractures can be managed without surgery when the bones remain properly aligned. A podiatrist can determine whether additional treatment is necessary based on the fracture's position, symptoms, and healing progress. Recognizing the possibility of delayed healing allows appropriate monitoring and helps support a safe return to normal activity. If symptoms of a toe fracture or symphalangeal toe injury are present, it is suggested that an appointment be made with a podiatrist for a  diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Graff Foot, Ankle and Wound Care. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Plano, Dallas, Prosper, Allen, Garland, Frisco, and Coppell, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A broken ankle is a serious injury that can affect the bones that form the ankle joint and make standing or walking extremely difficult. It often occurs after a fall, a sports injury, or a motor vehicle accident, although the severity can vary from one person to another. Some fractures involve a small crack in the bone, while others may cause the bones to shift out of their normal position. A broken ankle may also damage nearby ligaments and other soft tissues, making the injury more complex. Because ankle fractures can affect joint stability and long-term mobility, prompt evaluation and treatment are important. Early diagnosis may also help reduce the risk of complications and support proper healing.

Symptoms of a broken ankle usually develop immediately after the injury. Many people experience severe pain, swelling, or bruising around the ankle. Others find it difficult or impossible to put weight on the affected foot. The ankle may appear misshapen if the bones have moved out of alignment. Some individuals also notice tenderness or reduced range of motion because of pain and swelling. Since a severe sprain and a broken ankle can produce similar symptoms, a professional examination and imaging studies are often needed to confirm the diagnosis. Receiving timely care can help protect the joint and improve recovery.

A podiatrist is trained to diagnose and treat broken ankles and other foot and ankle injuries. During an evaluation, the podiatrist examines the ankle, reviews the injury, and determines the most appropriate treatment plan based on the type of fracture. Treatment focuses on restoring proper alignment, protecting the injured area, and supporting normal healing. Ongoing care also helps monitor recovery and improve ankle function as healing progresses. If you are experiencing severe ankle pain, swelling, or difficulty bearing weight after an injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Graff Foot, Ankle and Wound Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
• Swelling around the area
• Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Plano, Dallas, Prosper, Allen, Garland, Frisco, and Coppell, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Procedures involving the feet and ankles have become more common as treatment options for painful structural problems continue to improve. Conditions such as bunions, joint damage, tendon injuries, and alignment issues can interfere with walking and place abnormal stress on the lower extremities. When nonoperative care no longer provides relief, a surgical approach may be considered to improve function, reduce pain, and restore more natural movement. Modern techniques have allowed for more precise correction of many foot conditions, but recovery still requires careful monitoring. Imaging studies often play an important role after an operation by helping podiatrists evaluate healing, hardware placement, and any unexpected changes during recovery. While many patients heal well, complications such as infection, delayed healing, nerve irritation, or incomplete correction can occur. If chronic foot or ankle problems are limiting mobility, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for evaluation and treatment, which may include surgery.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Graff Foot, Ankle and Wound Care. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Plano, Dallas, Prosper, Allen, Garland, Frisco, and Coppell, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Falls become a greater concern as people grow older, and the feet play a much larger role than many realize. Foot pain, poor balance, and changes in foot shape can make it harder to stay steady while walking. Conditions like bunions, hammertoes, and arthritis can affect the way a person walks and increase the chance of losing balance. Reduced feeling in the feet, which can develop with aging or certain medical conditions, also makes it more difficult to sense the ground. Shoes that lack proper support create another risk because they reduce stability. Paying attention to foot health is an important part of lowering the risk of falls and protecting overall mobility.

A podiatrist can identify foot problems that affect balance before they lead to a serious injury. A foot examination checks for pain, loss of feeling, and circulation concerns that could interfere with safe movement. Treatment includes reducing painful pressure, improving foot function, and recommending custom orthotics when they are appropriate. A podiatrist can also address conditions like ingrown toenails, thick toenails, or painful calluses that may change the way people walk. Early care helps improve comfort and supports a more stable walking pattern. Better foot function can also make daily activities feel safer and more comfortable.

Falls can cause broken bones, ankle injuries, and serious foot damage that limits independence. Research has shown that foot pain is linked to slower walking and poorer balance. This makes it an important risk factor that should not be overlooked. Addressing foot problems before they become severe supports safer movement and greater confidence while walking. Taking care of your feet could improve your chances of staying on them. Regular visits with a podiatrist help detect changes that might otherwise go unnoticed. If you have injured your foot or ankle from falling, or feel you may be at risk, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective treatment and prevention tips. 

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 one of our podiatrists from Graff Foot, Ankle and Wound Care. Our doctors 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 offices located in Plano, Dallas, Prosper, Allen, Garland, Frisco, and Coppell, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.