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Recovery From a Foot Stress Fracture

Recovery from a foot stress fracture requires patience, diligence, and strategic care to facilitate optimal healing and prevent further injury. Begin by prioritizing rest and minimizing weight-bearing activities to alleviate stress on the affected foot. Elevate the foot above heart level to reduce swelling and promote circulation, aiding in the healing process. As symptoms improve, gradually reintroduce gentle stretching and strengthening exercises to rebuild muscle strength and flexibility. Consider incorporating low-impact activities like swimming or cycling to maintain cardiovascular fitness while avoiding undue strain on the healing fracture. Ensure proper nutrition, including adequate calcium and vitamin D intake, to support bone health and expedite healing. If you have a stress fracture that has affected your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can help you properly manage this condition.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Kutchback Podiatry. Our doctors 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 contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

The Functionality of Foot Arches

The biomechanics of the human foot comprises three primary arches, which are the medial longitudinal arch, the lateral longitudinal arch, and the transverse arch. These arches, constructed of bones, ligaments, and tendons, play a vital role in providing support, stability, and shock absorption during weight-bearing activities. The medial longitudinal arch, running along the inner edge of the foot, acts as a natural spring, absorbing the impact of each step and distributing the body's weight evenly. Its counterpart, the lateral longitudinal arch, assists in maintaining balance and stability by bearing weight on the outer edge of the foot. The transverse arch, situated across the midfoot, adds further structural integrity to the foot and facilitates weight transfer during movement. Together, these arches work harmoniously to adapt to various surfaces, absorb shocks, and propel the body forward efficiently. If you are interested in learning more about how the arches of the foot work in harmony with the bones, ligaments, and muscles, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can provide you with interesting information.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Kutchback Podiatry. 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 The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about The Importance of Biomechanics in Podiatry

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!

Selecting Proper Running Footwear for Women

Selecting the right running shoes for women is essential for a comfortable injury-free running experience. When considering footwear, it is important to understand one's foot type and running style. Women should prioritize shoes that offer adequate support and cushioning, tailored to their unique needs. Assessing factors like arch height, pronation, and foot width helps to make the best selection. For individuals with low arches stability shoes provide support, while neutral shoes suit those with normal arches. Additionally, women with high arches benefit from shoes that offer extra cushioning and flexibility. The shoe's fit should feel snug yet allow room for natural foot movement. Investing in quality footwear that aligns with your specific biomechanics enhances comfort and reduces the risk of injury, enabling women to enjoy their runs to the fullest. If you are purchasing running shoes, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to select the appropriate pair.

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Kutchback Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

  • Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
  • Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
  • Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

Indications of Toe Arthritis

Toe arthritis, a condition causing inflammation in the joints of the toes, has a range of symptoms, offering insight into its presence. Most commonly, individuals experience pain, swelling, and stiffness in the affected toes, often intensifying with movement. As arthritis progresses, the joints may lose flexibility, impeding regular toe movements. A notable sign is the development of a grinding sensation or audible cracking when the affected toes are in motion. The condition can also lead to changes in the toe's appearance, such as deformities or the formation of bunions. As arthritis takes its toll, daily activities, like walking or standing, may become increasingly challenging. Recognizing these subtle yet significant indicators enables individuals to seek timely medical attention. If you have toe pain, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose toe arthritis and offer appropriate treatment options.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Kutchback Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Trauma
  • Sports injury
  • Wearing shoes that are too tight
  • Arthritis
  • Gout
  • Corns and calluses
  • Hammertoe
  • Bunions
  • Blisters
  • Ingrown toenails
  • Sprains
  • Fractures (broken bones)
  • Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

  • Severe pain
  • Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
  • Signs of infection
  • Continued swelling
  • Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Toe Pain
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