Our Blog

Let’s get you back to the activities you love! At Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery, we’re dedicated to involving patients in their care. The VSON blog page offers the latest in orthopaedic, neurosurgery, and sports medicine education, news, and health tips.

Ankle Sprains vs. Strains: How to Tell the Difference and When to Seek Treatment

Ankle injuries are some of the most common orthopedic problems, especially in active mountain communities like Eagle and Summit County. Whether you twist your ankle on the trail, during a game, or just stepping off a curb, it can be difficult to know what’s actually injured. So, what is an ankle sprain vs strain, and how can you tell which one you have? Below, Dr. John Paul Elton , board-certified orthopedic surgeon and foot and ankle specialist at Vail-Summit Orthopaedics &

Nov 15, 20253 min read

Syndesmosis Injuries: The High Ankle Sprain Explained

Not all ankle sprains are created equal. While most involve the ligaments on the outside of the ankle, a syndesmosis injury, commonly referred to as a high ankle sprain, affects a different, deeper set of ligaments and typically takes longer to heal. For athletes and active individuals, proper diagnosis and treatment are critical. At Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery (VSON) , we see syndesmosis injuries regularly, especially in skiers, snowboarders, and field sport athl

Aug 1, 20253 min read

Choosing the Right Footwear for Flat Feet, Bunions, and Hammertoes

When it comes to managing chronic foot discomfort, footwear plays a critical role. At Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery (VSON), we often see patients dealing with pain from flat feet, bunions, or hammertoes — and in many cases, their shoes are making things worse. Supportive, properly fitted footwear can go a long way in alleviating pain and slowing the progression of these common foot conditions. Understanding which shoe features work best for your specific needs is ke

Jun 1, 20253 min read