Blog

Falling down steps is a sudden traumatic event that can cause significant injury to the foot and ankle due to the high impact forces involved. This type of fall often occurs when a person missteps, loses balance, or fails to see a step clearly. The foot may twist, roll, or absorb direct impact, leading to damage in bones, ligaments, or soft tissues. Because stairs create uneven elevation changes, even a small miscalculation can result in injury.

Symptoms following a fall down steps vary depending on severity but often include sharp pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. Some individuals may notice instability in the ankle or an inability to bear weight. More serious injuries may present with deformity, grinding sensations, or persistent pain that worsens over time. Soft tissue injuries such as sprains or tendon strains are common, but fractures of the toes, heel, or ankle bones may also occur.

Risk factors for falling down steps include environmental hazards such as poorly maintained stairs, cluttered walkways, and inadequate lighting. Personal factors such as wearing improper footwear, rushing, or carrying heavy objects can also increase risk. Medical conditions that affect balance, coordination, or sensation in the feet further contribute to the likelihood of a fall. Reduced muscle strength or previous injuries may also make individuals more vulnerable to losing stability on stairs.

Foot conditions caused by falling down steps can range from mild to severe. Common injuries include ankle sprains, plantar fascia strain, metatarsal fractures, and ligament damage. In some cases, repeated instability may develop if injuries are not fully treated. Proper evaluation is important to prevent long term complications such as chronic pain or reduced mobility. If you have sustained a foot or ankle injury from falling down steps, it is suggested you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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 Dr. Lubrina Bryant from District Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctor 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 office located in Washington, D.C . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Chronic ankle instability develops after repeated lateral ankle sprains. These injuries lead to persistent weakness and can cause a feeling of the ankle giving way. This condition affects the stability of the ankle joint and can interfere with both athletic performance and daily activities. It often begins with an initial sprain that does not fully heal, resulting in ongoing ligament laxity. Eventually, the ankle becomes less reliable, increasing the risk of additional injuries and long-term joint damage.

Common symptoms of chronic ankle instability include recurring ankle sprains, ongoing discomfort, and swelling after activity. Individuals may notice difficulty maintaining balance or a sense that the ankle is unstable during movement. Pain may be mild or moderate, but can become more noticeable with increased activity. Limited range of motion and stiffness are also common. If they are not properly addressed, these symptoms can significantly impact mobility and quality of life.

Risk factors for chronic ankle instability include a history of untreated or poorly managed ankle sprains. Weak supporting muscles, poor proprioception, and inadequate rehabilitation all contribute to continued instability. Participation in high impact sports or activities with frequent directional changes can increase strain on the ankle. Improper footwear and uneven surfaces further elevate the risk of reinjury. Identifying these factors is important for preventing progression and improving joint support.

The causes of chronic ankle instability are linked to repeated damage to the lateral ligaments and insufficient healing. Each sprain weakens the structural integrity of the joint, making it more prone to future injury. Comprehensive treatment focuses on strengthening, stability training, and proper foot alignment. Early intervention can reduce recurrence and improve function. If you have ankle sprains or chronic instability, it is suggested you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Lubrina Bryant from District Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Washington, D.C . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A baby’s first steps are an exciting part of growth, and the right shoes can help support healthy foot development. Before children begin walking, spending time barefoot helps strengthen the feet and improve balance. Once walking begins, shoes should protect the feet while still allowing natural movement. Good walking shoes include flexible soles, lightweight materials, and non-slip bottoms to help improve stability. Shoes should fit securely without being too tight or too loose. Shoes that are too large can cause tripping and affect walking patterns, while tight shoes can place pressure on growing feet and toenails. Many parents choose shoes with Velcro straps because they are easy to fasten and remove. A podiatrist can examine your child’s feet, check walking patterns, and recommend shoes that match your child’s stage of development. If your child is starting to walk, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for guidance on footwear choices that promote foot health.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Dr. Lubrina Bryant of District Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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

A bunion results when a bony bump forms at the base of the big toe, as the tip of the toe pushes against the other toes. This deformity can cause pain, redness, and swelling. Bunions also make wearing certain shoes uncomfortable while walking or standing for long periods of time. Causes include inherited foot structure, arthritis, and shoes that squeeze the toes together. Some people develop bunions because of poor foot alignment or abnormal walking patterns. A podiatrist can examine the foot, check joint movement, and use X-rays to determine the severity of the bunion. Treatment options include custom orthotics, padding, and wearing supportive shoes with a wider toe box. More advanced bunions may require surgery to straighten the toe joint and improve alignment. Early treatment can help slow the condition and reduce discomfort. If you have pain from a bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and management tips.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Dr. Lubrina Bryant of District Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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