A stress fracture of the foot can be the result due to an an overuse injury. Many athletes are prone to developing stress fractures which can become worse if they are not treated. They can happen from increasing mileage and speed too soon, or possibly from training on uneven surfaces. Additionally, people who enjoy jogging may experience this type of injury, and often run through any pain and discomfort they may have. Appropriate treatment often begins with temporarily refraining from the activity that caused the fracture and resting the affected foot as often as possible. This is preceded by confirming the stress fracture, which is generally determined by having an X-ray performed. Many daily activities may be compromised with the onset of a stress fracture, and it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can begin effective treatment methods with you.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Howard Kimmel, DPM from Buckeye Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Brook Park and Willoughby, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Because the foot supports the body and is made up of a complex network of bones, ligaments and tendons, foot pain can be debilitating and needs medical care. Different conditions can lead to issues in different locations on the foot. Common issues that cause pain on the top of the foot include extensor tendonitis, a Lisfranc injury, a midtarsal joint sprain, a navicular stress fracture, or a Morton’s neuroma. While these injuries are all different and complex, there are a few indications that a podiatrist should examine your condition. These indications include severe pain and swelling, an inability to complete normal daily tasks or to put weight on the foot, a change in sensation of the foot (such as numbness), and pain and weakness in the area that lasts more than two weeks.    

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Howard Kimmel, DPM from Buckeye Foot Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Brook Park and Willoughby, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Sometimes an ankle sprain and an ankle strain can be difficult to differentiate. Ankle sprains occur when one or more ligaments in the affected ankle are overstretched or torn, usually during a single incident, like stepping off a curb and twisting your ankle. Ankle strains occur when the muscles or tendons of the affected ankle are repetitively damaged over time. Symptoms of an ankle sprain include localized pain, swelling, bruising, and limited mobility. At the time of the injury, you may also hear a popping sound or feel a popping sensation, and pain will usually be sudden and intense. Symptoms of an ankle strain include pain, swelling, redness, inflammation, muscle spasms, cramps, or weakness, and a limited range of motion. If you are suffering from ankle pain, please schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. 

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Howard Kimmel, DPM from Buckeye Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Brook Park and Willoughby, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Roughly 1 in 4 older adults fall annually, which is why it is important for people over 65 to practice various safety measures to reduce risks of falling. Exercises can be done to strengthen muscles and improve balance. Pharmaceuticals should be reviewed to eliminate any medicine that causes drowsiness or dizziness. Vision should be checked annually to update eyewear as prescriptions change. Homes should be made as fall-proof as possible by installing grab bars near toilets and in showers and railings on both sides of stairs. Clutter should be eliminated from walkways, bright lighting should be installed, and small rugs should be eliminated or taped down to avoid slippage. A trip to the podiatrist is also recommended for a thorough examination to ensure that feet and ankles are healthy. A gait analysis may also be performed to see if custom orthotics may help improve balance and mobility.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Howard Kimmel, DPM from Buckeye Foot Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Brook Park and Willoughby, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.