Balancing act

Published by: American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons

The wrong boot could lead to ankle, foot injuries

Winter’s popular women’s boots typically feature tall, spiked heels and narrow, pointed toes. These boots can make your feet unstable on snow- and ice-covered surfaces.

A stylish low-heeled winter boot is a lot more fashionable than a cast and crutches. We recommend women scuff-up the soles of new boots, or purchase adhesive rubber soles, to provide greater traction.

Falls from high-heeled winter boots can lead to a number of injuries, depending on how you lose your balance. If your ankles roll inward or outward, you can break your ankles. If your ankle twists, ligaments can be stretched or torn, causing an ankle sprain. Broken and sprained ankles can be present at the same time. Slipping or falling in these boots can also cause broken toe, metatarsal and heel bones.

If you do get hurt, call a foot and ankle surgeon for prompt evaluation and treatment. In the meantime, the “R.I.C.E.” method should be followed. This involves:

Rest. Stay off the injured foot, since walking can cause further damage.
Ice. To reduce swelling and pain, apply a bag of ice over a thin towel to the affected area. Do not put ice directly against the skin. Use ice for 20 minutes and then wait at least 40 minutes before icing again.
Compression. An elastic wrap should be used to control swelling.
Elevation. Keep the foot elevated to reduce the swelling. It should be even with or slightly above the heart level.

Tips to avoid winter ankle injuries:

·         Keep areas around outside doorways well-lit so icy patches are visible

·         Wear shoes or boots with a traction sole that can prevent slipping

·         Check for slippery spots before getting out of a car or walking on stairs

·         Avoid wearing high-heeled shoes outdoors

·         Stretch and warm up before outdoor and indoor physical activities

Call the Foot, Ankle & Lower Leg Center office located in Las Vegas and the Henderson area, which we have 3 locations to serve you.  Call to schedule your appointment

 @702-878-2455 between 9am to 5pm, Monday thru Friday and closed for lunch between 1pm to 2pm.  Please visit our website @ www.FallCenter.com where all of your questions may be answered and to also schedule your appointment.

When pain or injury occurs, you deserve highly personalized treatment using the most advanced techniques.  At the Foot, Ankle & Lower Leg Center (FallCenter), you’ll enjoy an unsurpassed level of quality care.  Dr. Ricciardi, Dr. Shalev and Dr. McLeod are proud to provide comprehensive solutions for all types of foot and ankle problems. 

Your quality care begins the minute you arrive, as our staff greets you by name and answers your questions.  Our team of foot and ankle specialists will inspire your confidence and their genuine warmth and compassion will earn your trust.

You’ll receive a prompt and thorough assessment, including on-site diagnostic ultrasound and digital x-rays.  Your treatment plan is designed to resolve your condition without surgery whenever possible.  When surgery is needed, your feet are in the hands of leading physicians with expertise in the latest minimally invasive techniques.  As a result, you’ll be back on your feet and back to your active life as quickly as possible.

Without proper treatment, an injury or chronic condition can keep you from performing even the simplest everyday tasks.  To meet patients’ most critical health needs,

Dr. Ricciardi, Dr. Shalev and Dr. McLeod have developed the following treatment programs:  Bunion Solutions, Heel Pain, Diabetic Foot Care and Sports Performance Center.