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An avulsion fracture in the foot occurs when a small bone fragment is pulled away by a tendon or ligament attached to it, often resulting from a sudden twist or impact. This type of fracture is common in sports or activities involving rapid direction changes. Unlike other fractures, which may break across the bone or completely separate it, an avulsion fracture only affects the area where the ligament or tendon attaches, often leaving the main bone intact. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight. Seeing a podiatrist is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment. They will likely use imaging…

Athlete's foot, a common fungal infection, primarily affects the skin between the toes and on the soles of the feet. It thrives in warm and moist environments, making communal areas like pools and locker rooms prime breeding grounds. The main causes include direct contact with the fungus, damp socks, and poor foot hygiene. Symptoms typically include itching, burning, and peeling skin, in additon to redness and cracking, which can lead to more severe complications if untreated. Individuals may also experience blisters and a persistent odor. A podiatrist can effectively diagnose and treat athlete's foot. They may prescribe antifungal medications, recommend…

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition affecting the foot, specifically involving a thickening of the tissue surrounding a nerve, often between the third and fourth toes. This condition can be caused by various factors, including wearing tight shoes, high heels, high foot arches, or engaging in repetitive activities that put pressure on the feet. Symptoms include sharp, burning pain in the ball of the foot, a sensation of having a pebble in the shoe, and tingling or numbness in the toes. These symptoms can worsen with activity and improve with rest. Initial treatment options include wearing wider shoes or using…

Foot and ankle injuries are common during workouts, especially in high-impact activities like running, jumping, and weightlifting. Common injuries include sprains, strains, stress fractures, and Achilles tendonitis. These occur due to improper form, overuse, or inadequate footwear. Ankle sprains, for example, happen when the ligaments are stretched beyond their limit, while stress fractures develop from repetitive stress on bones. Treatment depends on the severity of the injury. Minor injuries can be managed with rest. Severe cases may require immobilization or targeted stretching exercises. Preventing these injuries involves warming up properly, wearing supportive shoes, and focusing on strength and balance training.…

Lateral ankle injuries involve damage to the ligaments on the outer side of the ankle. They are often caused by rolling or twisting the foot during activities like running, jumping, or walking on uneven surfaces. Such ankle injuries are common in athletes but can happen to anyone, especially during sudden movements or improper foot placement. The most frequent type of lateral ankle injury is an ankle sprain, where the ligaments stretch or tear. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight on the injured foot. Diagnosis typically involves a physical exam and imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRI…

Achilles tendon tears occur when the tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone is overstretched or ruptured, often during activities that involve sudden movements or intense stress, such as jumping or sprinting. Common causes include sports injuries, falls, or sudden increases in physical activity without proper conditioning. Risk factors include aging, tight calf muscles, and certain medications that weaken the tendon. Symptoms of an Achilles tendon tear include a sharp pain in the back of the ankle, swelling, difficulty walking, and an inability to push off the foot or stand on tiptoes. Some may hear a pop sound…

Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!

Few things are as frustrating as foot pain. After all, our feet are the unsung heroes that carry us through each day, so it is difficult when they are not performing at their peak. The American Podiatric Medical Association reports that a whopping 77% of US adults have had foot problems. So, you are not alone. Suddenly, something as simple as going for a walk can turn into an uphill battle. Take plantar fasciitis, for example. This pesky condition inflames the tissue along the bottom of your foot, making those first steps in the morning feel like a walk on…

Congenital foot problems are deformities present from birth, affecting the structure and function of the feet. Metatarsus adductus causes the toes and the front of the foot to curve inward toward the other foot. It can be flexible, often correcting itself by six to 12 months of age, although surgery may be needed if it does not improve. Clubfoot, similar in appearance but with toes pointing downward and the bottom of the foot facing inward, is usually detected via prenatal ultrasound and treated with casting or surgery. Calcanevalgus involves a dislocation of the talus bone, causing the top of the…

Arthritis in the toes is caused by inflammation that affects the joints, particularly the big toe, though others may also be involved. Early symptoms often include pain, which can vary from a dull ache to a sharp, stabbing sensation when moving the toe. Arthritic toe pain can make even simple daily activities, like walking, challenging. Over time, stiffness can develop as the cartilage between the joints wears away, leading to reduced flexibility and mobility. Swelling, warmth, and redness around the affected toe joints are also common, making it difficult to wear shoes comfortably. You might hear clicking or popping sounds…

Gout is a type of arthritis that results in sudden and intense pain in the joints, most commonly affecting the big toe. It is caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints, due to high levels of uric acid in the blood. The primary sign of gout is sudden, severe pain in a specific joint, often accompanied by swelling, redness, and warmth. The affected area may feel tender and extremely sensitive to touch. Attacks can occur abruptly, often at night, and can last for several days. Other signs include difficulty moving the joint and lingering discomfort after…

Cycling is a fantastic way to stay active, but it can often lead to foot pain, particularly in the ball of the foot where pressure and friction occur. Whether you are a casual rider or a serious cyclist, you might experience burning sensations, numbness, or sharp pains during or after a ride. These issues are frequently caused by improper footwear that compresses the foot and increases pressure on sensitive areas. To minimize foot pain, consider choosing cycling shoes with a wider toe box and adjustable straps. This allows for better movement and reduces pressure points. Stiffer soles, while often preferred…

If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.

Plantar fasciitis is a common condition characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot from the heel to the toes. This inflammation typically results from excessive strain or repetitive stress on the tissue. It can be caused by factors such as prolonged standing, wearing improper footwear, or excessive physical activity. Symptoms of plantar fasciitis can include sharp, stabbing pain in the heel, particularly noticeable with the first steps taken in the morning or after periods of rest. The pain may also worsen with increased activity or prolonged standing. This…

Toe injuries are common among runners, often caused by the repetitive impact and friction involved in the sport. Runner’s toe, or toenail trauma, typically results from the toenail repeatedly hitting the inside of the shoe, causing pain and potential bruising. Bruised toenails occur when blood collects under the nail due to direct impact or pressure, leading to dark discoloration. Black toenails, a more severe form of bruising, may be indicative of more significant trauma and can sometimes lead to the toenail falling off. To prevent these issues, ensure that running shoes fit properly with adequate room for toe movement and…

The heel, the largest bone in the foot, plays an important role in walking and weight-bearing, absorbing shock and providing stability. Heel pain is a common issue with various causes. Plantar fasciitis, characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, leads to sharp, morning heel pain. Heel spurs, which are calcium deposits on the heel bone, can cause discomfort with prolonged standing or walking. Sever's disease, prevalent in growing children, results from inflammation of the heel growth plate. These conditions necessitate professional assessment. If you or a family member suffers from heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist…

As people age, they often encounter various foot problems due to changes in foot structure and overall health. Common issues include bunions, painful bumps at the base of the big toe caused by joint misalignment, and arthritis, leading to joint pain and stiffness. Other frequent problems are plantar fasciitis, which results in heel pain from inflammation of the foot's connective tissue, and corns or calluses, which are caused by pressure and friction. These conditions can be made worse by reduced skin elasticity, poor circulation, and weakened foot muscles. Additionally, wearing improper footwear can contribute to discomfort and deformities. If you…

Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.

A sprained foot can vary in severity, with common signs including pain, swelling, and bruising surrounding the affected area. Mild sprains involve stretching or slight tearing of ligaments, causing minimal swelling and discomfort. Moderate sprains result in more significant pain, swelling, and difficulty in bearing weight. Severe sprains, characterized by complete ligament tears, often cause intense pain, extensive swelling, and instability in the foot. Relief methods for sprained feet typically involve resting the foot, compression with a bandage to support the injured area, and elevating the foot above heart level to minimize swelling. Pain relievers can help to manage pain…