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Differences Between Bruised and Broken Toes

A bruised toe and a broken toe can cause pain and discomfort, but they have distinct differences. A bruised toe occurs when direct impact or pressure damages the small blood vessels under the skin, leading to discoloration, tenderness, swelling, and mild difficulty in movement. The pain is usually manageable, and mobility is often preserved. A broken toe results from a more severe injury, such as heavy impact or sudden force, causing a fracture in the bone. Symptoms include severe pain, swelling, bruising, difficulty moving the toe, and sometimes a visible deformity. A popping sound may be heard at the time of injury. While bruised toes typically heal with rest, broken toes often require medical evaluation. If you have injured your toe, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose bruised and broken toes, and offer appropriate treatment solutions.
A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Peter Siroka, DPM from Connecticut. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What to Know About a Broken Toe
Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
- Throbbing pain
- Swelling
- Bruising on the skin and toenail
- The inability to move the toe
- Toe appears crooked or disfigured
- Tingling or numbness in the toe
Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.
Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Stamford, CT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
The Many Sources of Heel Pain

Heel pain is a common issue that can be caused by numerous conditions like plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, or bursitis. Arthritis and gout can also play a role. Plantar fasciitis causes sharp pain in the bottom of the heel, especially with the first steps in the morning. Achilles tendonitis results in pain and swelling in the back of the heel due to overuse or strain on the Achilles tendon. Bursitis involves inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs around the heel, causing pain and swelling. Arthritis and gout can lead to joint pain, swelling, and redness, often in the heel area. The causes of heel pain vary but often involve repetitive stress, poor footwear, obesity, or underlying health conditions like arthritis or gout. The pain can range from mild to severe and can significantly impact mobility. A podiatrist can diagnose the underlying cause of heel pain and recommend treatment, such as targeted exercises, orthotics, medication, or, in severe cases, surgery. If you are dealing with heel pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.
Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Peter Siroka, DPM of Connecticut. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Causes of Heel Pain
Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.
Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.
Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.
Why Might Heel Pain Occur?
- Wearing ill-fitting shoes
- Wearing non-supportive shoes
- Weight change
- Excessive running
Treatments
Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Stamford, CT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
The Link Between Foot Conditions and General Health

Your feet can provide important clues about your overall health. Changes in their appearance, sensation, or function may indicate underlying medical conditions. Cold feet could suggest poor circulation, while persistent swelling might be a sign of heart, kidney, or venous issues. Discoloration, sores that do not heal, or numbness may point to diabetes or nerve damage. Brittle or discolored toenails can indicate fungal infections or nutritional deficiencies. Foot cramps or muscle weakness could be linked to dehydration or vitamin imbalances. Additionally, dry, cracked heels may suggest thyroid problems. If you notice persistent discomfort, swelling, or unusual changes in your feet, it is suggested that you seek a medical evaluation from a podiatrist who can offer you advice and appropriate treatment.
When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Peter Siroka, DPM from Connecticut. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.
Systemic Diseases of the Feet
Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable. Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.
Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.
Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.
Diabetes of the Feet
Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.
Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet.
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Stamford, CT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Involved in Breaking Your Ankle?

Breaking an ankle is a painful and serious injury that happens when one or more of the ankle bones, the tibia, fibula, or talus, fracture due to trauma like a fall or accident. The pain is immediate, often accompanied by swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. In severe cases, the ankle may look deformed. Treatment depends on the severity. A simple break may heal with a cast or walking boot, while complex fractures often require surgery with plates and screws to hold the bones in place. Recovery takes weeks to months, followed by performing specific exercises to restore mobility. Leaving a broken ankle untreated can lead to long-term problems, such as instability or arthritis. If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and the right treatment to get back on your feet safely.
Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Peter Siroka, DPM from Connecticut. 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 Stamford, CT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.