An ankle avulsion fracture occurs when a small piece of bone is pulled away from the main bone by an injured ligament, tendon, or muscle. This injury often happens during a sudden twist, fall, or misstep, and it can involve surrounding soft tissues, such as ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves. Symptoms include swelling, bruising, pain, and difficulty walking. Most patients recover in about four to six weeks with proper care and protection. A podiatrist can confirm the diagnosis with imaging, guide your treatment, support healing of the soft tissues, and help restore strength and stability to the ankle. If you have ankle pain after an injury or have trouble putting weight on your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat the injury.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Katie Besselman, DPM from Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor 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 office located in Saint Peters, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetes can quietly change the health of your feet in many ways. Poor circulation and nerve damage can cause numbness, tingling, or burning sensations that make it hard to feel pain or temperature changes. This loss of sensitivity increases the risk of unnoticed injuries that may develop into open sores, known as foot ulcers. Skin and nail changes are also common, including dryness, thick nails, fungal infections, or even a gradual shift in foot shape, such as a collapsed arch known as rocker-bottom deformity. Type 1 diabetes tends to affect circulation earlier, while type 2 often brings slower but progressive nerve and tissue changes. Both can lead to serious complications, if left untreated. Regular foot checks, proper footwear, and prompt attention to any wounds are essential. If you have diabetes, and notice changes in your feet, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition.

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 Katie Besselman, DPM from Advanced Podiatry. 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 office located in Saint Peters, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection that thrives in warm, moist environments such as shoes, locker rooms, and public showers. It often begins between the toes, causing itching, burning, redness, and peeling skin. Left untreated, it can spread to the soles or toenails, and may even pass to others through shared surfaces or footwear. Keeping the feet clean and dry is the first step in prevention and recovery. Changing socks regularly, wearing breathable shoes, and using antifungal powders or sprays can help stop the infection from spreading. Persistent or severe cases may require prescription-strength medication to fully clear the fungus and prevent recurrence. If you experience ongoing itching, cracking, or scaling on your feet that is persistent, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a precise diagnosis and effective treatment plan.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Katie Besselman, DPM from Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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

As we age, our feet reflect a lifetime of movement and wear. The skin becomes thinner, joints stiffen, and circulation often slows, making older adults more vulnerable to discomfort and injury. Common issues include bunions, hammertoes, thickened nails, calluses, and balance problems caused by arthritis or neuropathy. These conditions can make walking painful and increase the risk of falls or infections. Fortunately, many of these challenges can be managed effectively through professional podiatric care. A podiatrist can trim thick nails safely, treat painful deformities, provide cushioning or orthotic support, and monitor for underlying vascular or nerve changes. Early evaluation and routine visits help maintain mobility and independence by keeping the feet healthy and comfortable. If you or an elderly loved one notice pain, swelling, or changes in foot shape, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for personalized care and appropriate treatment.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Katie Besselman, DPM from Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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