Ankle & Foot Trauma Treatment in Thousand Oaks
Most people will experience a foot or ankle injury at some point in their lives, and even a seemingly minor injury can make everyday activities painful and difficult. At Performance Foot & Ankle, our podiatrists provide comprehensive, fast, and effective care for foot and ankle trauma in Thousand Oaks, CA , using advanced diagnostics and proven treatments to help you heal properly and return to your routine as quickly as possible.
Request an AppointmentCommon Causes of Foot and Ankle Trauma
We frequently treat patients who were injured from:
- Sports and recreational activities
- Wear and tear from overuse
- Uncomfortable or poorly fitting footwear
- Car accidents, falls, and other accidents
- Ruptured or torn tendons
- Foreign bodies such as splinters, glass, or metal
Symptoms That Require Professional Treatment
Many minor injuries heal on their own, but some need professional care to heal correctly. Athletes especially cannot afford to leave foot injuries untreated, because placing strain on an injured foot before it fully heals can lead to long-term or even permanent problems. You should see a podiatrist if you experience any of the following after an injury:
- Pain that worsens when walking or moving
- Swelling or bruising
- Difficulty moving the foot or bearing weight
- Tenderness at the back of the heel
- Pain when wearing shoes
- A visible deformity or open wound
How Our Podiatrists Treat Foot and Ankle Trauma
Evaluation and Diagnosis
Your podiatrist will examine the injured area, review your medical history, and assess the severity of the injury. Our office offers in-house digital x-ray and diagnostic ultrasound to identify fractures, tendon tears, and foreign objects quickly. MRI may be recommended for more complex injuries.
Individualized Treatment Planning
Based on your diagnosis, we create a treatment plan tailored to your specific injury, activity level, and goals. We will explain each option so you can make an informed decision about your care.
Immobilization and Support
Some injuries require immobilization to heal properly. Your podiatrist may use a cast, splint, walking boot, or brace to limit movement and protect the injured area.
Pain Management and Healing Therapies
We may prescribe medication to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, or prevent infection. Advanced therapies such as MLS laser therapy and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) can also help reduce inflammation and speed tissue healing.
Wound Care
If your injury involves open wounds or lacerations, we will clean, dress, and monitor the wound to reduce the risk of infection.
Rehabilitation and Follow-Up Care
After the initial healing phase, we guide you through exercises and physical therapy to restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion. Follow-up visits allow us to track your progress and adjust your treatment as needed.
Surgery as a Last Resort
Surgery should only be considered when conservative treatments cannot fully restore function. Many patients find relief through physical therapy, custom orthotics, and other noninvasive treatments. When surgery is needed, such as for a ruptured tendon or displaced fracture, our board-certified surgeons offer advanced foot and ankle surgery.
If you have injured your foot or ankle, call (805) 273-1415 to schedule an appointment with Performance Foot & Ankle.
Frequently Asked Questions About Foot and Ankle Trauma
Can I still exercise with a foot or ankle injury?
Depending on the severity of your injury, some exercise may be possible and even beneficial. Your podiatrist can create a modified plan that may include low-impact activities like swimming or cycling while your injury heals.
How long does it take to recover from an ankle sprain?
Mild ankle sprains often heal within two to four weeks, while moderate to severe sprains can take six weeks to several months. Proper treatment and rehabilitation help prevent re-injury and chronic ankle instability.
How do I know if my foot is broken or just sprained?
Sprains and fractures can have similar symptoms, including pain, swelling, and bruising. An x-ray is the most reliable way to tell the difference, and we offer digital x-rays in our office.
Should I see a podiatrist or go to urgent care for a foot injury?
A podiatrist specializes in the foot and ankle and can diagnose, image, and treat most foot injuries in the office. For life-threatening injuries or severe open fractures, go to the emergency room.
What should I do immediately after injuring my foot or ankle?
Rest the injured foot, apply ice, use compression, and elevate it above heart level to reduce swelling. Avoid putting weight on it if walking is painful and schedule an evaluation as soon as possible.
Can a podiatrist remove a splinter or foreign object from my foot?
Yes. Our podiatrists can safely locate and remove splinters, glass, metal, and other foreign bodies, often using imaging to find objects that are deep in the tissue.
Will I need surgery for my foot or ankle injury?
Most foot and ankle injuries heal with conservative care. Surgery is typically reserved for ruptured tendons, displaced fractures, or injuries that do not respond to other treatments.