Acute Foot & Ankle Injury Treatment in Houston, TX
A misstep off a curb, a dropped object, a stubbed toe, or a hard landing can cause sudden foot or ankle pain. Acute injuries need prompt, accurate care to heal correctly and avoid long-term problems like chronic pain, stiffness, or instability. Kenrick J. Dennis, DPM offers timely evaluation and treatment of acute foot and ankle injuries at our Memorial City office.
Common Acute Foot & Ankle Injuries
- Ankle sprains and ligament tears
- Broken toes and toe injuries
- Metatarsal and ankle fractures
- Achilles tendon strains and ruptures
- Crush injuries from dropped objects
- Puncture wounds and foreign bodies, such as glass or splinters
- Nail injuries and bleeding under the nail
Signs You Need Prompt Care
- Inability to put weight on the foot
- Significant swelling or bruising
- Visible deformity
- A pop, snap, or crack at the time of injury
- Numbness, tingling, or cold toes
- A wound that is deep, dirty, or shows signs of infection
People with diabetes or neuropathy should have any foot injury checked promptly, even if it doesn’t hurt.
First Aid Before Your Visit
Rest the injured foot, apply ice wrapped in a cloth for 15 to 20 minutes at a time, use compression if swelling is present, and keep the foot elevated above heart level. Avoid walking on an injury that’s too painful to bear weight. For severe trauma, open fractures, or loss of circulation, go to the emergency room.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Dr. Dennis takes in-office X-rays to check for fractures and orders MRIs when soft-tissue damage is suspected. Treatment may include splinting, taping, a walking boot or cast, wound care, removal of foreign bodies through our in-office procedures, medication, physical therapy, and surgery for severe fractures or tendon ruptures.
Fast Care for Foot & Ankle Injuries
Getting seen early leads to better healing. Athletes can learn more about sports injuries, or explore all of the conditions we treat. Call Kenrick J. Dennis, DPM at (713) 465-8833.
Acute Injury FAQs
Should I see a podiatrist or go to urgent care for a foot injury?
A podiatrist specializes in foot and ankle injuries and can take X-rays in the office. For severe trauma, open fractures, or loss of circulation, go to the emergency room.
How do I know if my foot is broken?
Severe pain, swelling, bruising, deformity, and trouble bearing weight can indicate a fracture. An X-ray is needed to confirm.
Can a broken toe heal on its own?
Many broken toes heal with buddy taping and a stiff-soled shoe, but displaced or joint fractures may need additional treatment, so an exam is important.
What should I do right after a foot injury?
Rest, ice, compress, and elevate the foot, and avoid bearing weight if it’s too painful. Then schedule an evaluation.
Do I need a tetanus shot for a puncture wound in my foot?
You may need a tetanus booster if it has been more than five years since your last one. Puncture wounds should be evaluated for infection risk.
Why should people with diabetes have foot injuries checked?
Nerve damage and poor circulation can hide injuries and slow healing, making prompt care essential to prevent infection.