Podiatrists give care to fractures, dislocations, sprains, contusions and infections every day. When you injure your foot or ankle, it is important to seek timely treatment from a podiatric physician. Many times after an injury people resort to guideline sayings to gauge treatment. While some of these phrases can be useful, others delay or add to the recovery time. The following is a few examples of sayings followed by an explanation.
"It cannot be broken because I can move it."
False. The truth is that often certain types of fractures of the foot can still be moved. Small chip fractures of the foot or ankle, breaks in the fibula, or bones in the toes can often appear to function properly but medical attention is still needed.
"A broken toe needs immediate treatment."
False. While it never hurts to error on the side of precaution, a toe does not always need immediate care. When an x-ray shows a simple break, a podiatrist can usually provide quick and full relief. Other times an x-ray may display a displaced or folded break. In these situations, rapid realignment of the fracture actually prevents s complete healing.
"Appling an elastic bandage for a sprained ankle is the only treatment needed."
False. The term "ankle sprain" is very general. Many times an "ankle sprain" includes torn or stretched ligaments. A podiatrist should be seen to receive appropriate treatment.
"When you hurt your foot or ankle, immediately put it in hot water."
False. Hot water is the opposite of what should be done. Heat promotes blood circulation leading to a faster inflammation response. This will cause more swelling and pain. A bad of ice wrapped in a towel is the correct treatment, this prevents swelling and reduces pain.
"RICE will reduce swelling"
True. RICE is an acronym used to treat swelling. While a podiatrist should be seen in the case of trauma or recurrent swelling, RICE is a great way to handle small amounts of infrequent swelling. Rest is the first step. This means limiting activities and making it a point to reduce use of inflamed area. Ice is used to cool the area. A bag for of ice should be placed in a towel and then wrapped to the injured area for 20 min intervals. Compression wrapping is used when ice is not applied to the injured area. Elevation is the last part. Elevating the injured area above the heart will help drain the excess fluid and blood from the injury.