Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek professional help and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.
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Have I Fractured My Toe?
A toe fracture is a break in one or more of the bones in the toes, often caused by direct trauma such as stubbing the toe or dropping a heavy object on the foot. Repeated stress or overuse can also lead to a fracture, especially in active individuals. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected foot. In some cases, the toe may appear misaligned or deformed. Diagnosis is usually made through a physical examination and confirmed with imaging studies, like an X-ray. Prompt recognition of a toe fracture is important for proper healing. If you have symptoms of a broken toe, it is strongly suggested that you make an immediate appointment with a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, supporting a quicker return to normal activity and long-term foot health.
Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Practice Name. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is a Broken Toe?
A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
- Swelling
- Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
- Stiffness
- Nail Injury
Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Fair Lawn, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?
Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!
What Is a High Ankle Sprain?
A high ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments above the ankle that connect the two bones in your lower leg, the tibia and fibula, are stretched or torn. This type of sprain is less common but often more severe than an ankle sprain that affects the ligaments surrounding the ankle joint. High ankle sprains are usually caused by a twisting injury or direct impact, often seen in sports like football, basketball, or skiing. Symptoms include pain above the ankle, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected foot. The pain is often sharp and may worsen with activity or when the foot is rotated. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity of the sprain through a physical exam and imaging, offering treatments such as rest, elevation, immobilization, and, in some cases, targeted exercises. In more severe cases, surgery may be required. If you have a painful ankle sprain, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.
Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact one of our podiatrists from Practice Name. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?
Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.
What Are the Symptoms?
- Pain at the sight of the tear
- Bruising/Swelling
- Ankle area is tender to touch
- In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
- Skin discoloration
Preventing a Sprain
- Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
- Stretching before exercises and sports
- Knowing your limits
Treatment of a Sprain
In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.
It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Fair Lawn, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Excessive Supination Affects Your Foot Health
Supination occurs when the body’s weight is placed along the outside of the foot during walking or running, and excessive supination can lead to strain on the ankles, feet, and toes. People with high arches or inherited structural differences in the legs and feet are more likely to experience excessive supination. It increases the risk of ankle sprains, stress fractures, plantar fasciitis, and other painful foot problems. Wearing improper footwear, poor body alignment, and previous injuries can also contribute to an unstable gait. A podiatrist can diagnose excessive supination by analyzing shoe wear patterns, conducting a gait analysis, and evaluating foot structure. Treatment options include prescribing custom orthotics to support the arch and improve foot alignment. In some cases, surgery may be suggested to correct severe structural problems. Choosing appropriate footwear with cushioning and stability features can also be part of the overall plan. If you have foot pain related to your gait, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.
If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Practice Name. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Biomechanics in Podiatry
Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.
A History of Biomechanics
- Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
- In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.
Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.
Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Fair Lawn, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
