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Foot and Ankle Injuries in Ballet Dancers
Foot and ankle injuries are sometimes an unavoidable part of a dancer’s life, and particularly so for ballet dancers. Overuse injuries are more common in ballet than traumatic injuries, as they can be attributed to repetitive movements and extraordinary stress on bones and soft tissue structures. Achilles tendinopathy is one example of this type of injury. This is often the result of excessive stress on the Achilles tendon due to exaggerated positions such as demi-plié, demie point, and en pointe. Flexor hallucis longus tendinopathy is an overuse injury that can occur from repeated pushing off from the big toe. The pirouettes ballet dancers perform put an incredible amount of pressure on the forefoot, which can cause a nerve disorder called Morton’s neuroma. Landing after jumps and rolling the foot down from demie point places repeated tension on the plantar fascia tissue on the sole of the foot. This can cause the tissue to become inflamed or torn (plantar fasciitis). A podiatrist has immeasurable experience in diagnosing and treating foot and ankle conditions of all kinds, and should be consulted for any such injury a dancer or athlete may incur.
Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Common Injuries
The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:
- Achilles Tendonitis
- Achilles Tendon Rupture
- Ankle Sprains
- Broken Foot
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Stress Fractures
- Turf Toe
Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.
Treatment
Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Arthritis in the Big Toe
The big toe plays an important role in our ability to walk and remain balanced. The place where the big toe connects to the foot is called the metatarsophalangeal joint (MTP). This joint, like many others in the body, is often the target of osteoarthritis because it gets a lot of wear and tear. Symptoms include pain (especially while active), stiffness, swelling, and a shifting of weight when you walk (change in gait). Occasionally, the big toe pushes toward the other toes, forming a bunion. Stiffness in the joint can result in a difficulty walking, which then can lead to the formation of calluses, corns, and hammertoes. The risk of developing osteoarthritis increases as you age, but other factors such as genetics, obesity, and prior joint injury can contribute to it. As with any progressive disease, osteoarthritis in the big toe can only become worse. Getting treatment from a podiatrist as early as possible is a good idea. X-rays can often detect the extent of the damage to the MTP joint and help the doctor to determine treatment options. Among them are certain prescription medications, changes in footwear, and in severe cases, surgery. For more information on osteoarthritis of the big toe, please consult a podiatrist.
Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M of Florida. Dr. Klein 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 feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Two Types of Foot Therapy
Foot massages are a common form of relaxation, and many people choose this type of foot therapy to find relief from aching feet. It may come from standing all day or from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. An additional method of therapy is reflexology and there are differences between the two. Reflexology is practiced by applying pressure to specific areas of the foot which can stimulate the central nervous system and can positively affect energy pathways. Different organs in the body are linked to pressure points on the feet and may have healing effects. Getting a foot massage involves massaging the entire foot without centering on certain areas. Some of the health benefits from either form of foot therapy can consist of improved circulation, relaxation, stress relief, and reduced muscle tension. Some patients find relief from headaches and back pain and can enjoy an overall sense of well-being. If you are interested in learning more about the benefits of different types of foot therapy, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can answer any questions you may have.
Foot therapy is often necessary for those recovering from either foot deformities or foot injuries. If you have concerns regarding therapy, Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M of Florida. Dr. Klein can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Most Common Injuries
People who are active or athletes are prone to a variety of injuries. Therefore, it is often important to take part in physical therapy in order to quickly get back on the right track.
What to Do When Injured
Physical Therapy – This specialized treatment will focus on the affected area, speeding up recovery and the overall healing process. It is a proven method that has helped millions of people return from any injury.
During physical therapy you will undergo regimented training to get back into full form. Training is often very difficult, especially at first when the foot feels weak. Physical therapy often involves:
Basic stretching and twisting exercises – getting the feet’s mobility and flexibility up.
Massaging – the therapist will massage the injured area in order to activate the muscles and relax them.
Strengthening Exercises – this allows the muscles in the affected area to regain their full strength, a vital step towards full recovery.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Extra Weight May Equal Foot Pain
If you are obese, which is classified as having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, you may be putting undue stress on your feet and ankles. Studies show that obese individuals are more likely to have foot pain than those who are not obese. Some conditions that obesity may contribute to include flat feet, plantar fasciitis and other heel pain, hammertoes, and bunions. Also, being obese can increase your chances of having certain diseases that can negatively impact your feet such as gout and diabetes. Aside from trying to lose weight, you can relieve pain and reduce the negative effects of obesity on your feet by choosing better footwear and using custom orthotics in your shoes. Custom orthotics can help to relieve pressure points, support your arch, and distribute your body weight more evenly across your feet. A podiatrist can help you with these proactive measures as well as treat any painful conditions that excess weight may have caused in your feet.
Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Obesity and Your Feet
Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.
Problems & Complications
Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.
Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.
Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
3 Tips for Preventing Running Injuries
Running is a widespread recreational activity. However, a large portion of those who engage in running can suffer from running-related injuries at some point in their lives. Injuries to the feet can be common among these running-related injuries. There are several steps that you might take to prevent running injuries to your feet. First, you can be diligent about stretching your feet both before and after your runs, focusing also on the lower calves. This serves to loosen the muscles in your feet, effectively reducing tension and strain. Second, you might consider receiving some kind of regular foot massage treatment to further relax the muscles in your feet. This might be particularly effective if you notice that muscles in your feet or lower legs are becoming sore. Third, you might avoid running on uneven surfaces. This is recommended because uneven terrain can increase the likelihood of falls, which can wreak havoc on your feet. If you engage in running, it is a good decision to consult with a podiatrist about how to proactively prevent running injuries.
Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M of Florida. Dr. Klein will treat your foot and ankle needs.
How to Prevent Running Injuries
Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.
What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.
Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Beyond Fashion in Shoe Shopping
Many of us want the shoes we wear to be fashionable, but it is important to look beyond fashion to function when wanting to keep our feet in good shape. There are steps you can take to find shoes that fit well. Though it might sound strange, it can help to take a tracing of our feet with us when we go shoe shopping. Before even trying shoes on, place shoes under consideration on top of the tracing and notice if the shoe is shorter or narrower than it should be. Shop for shoes in the afternoon as the feet naturally expand during the day. Wear the same type of socks or hose to the store as you plan on wearing with the shoes to be purchased. Have a salesperson measure your feet every time you buy new shoes as your feet change with age, often becoming flatter and wider. If one of your feet is bigger than the other, opt for the larger size in shoe selection. Try on the shoes, wiggle your toes to make sure there is enough room in the toe box, pay attention to the shoe’s width on your foot, and press on the top of the shoe to see if you have about a half an inch of space between the longest toe and the end of the shoe. Walk around in the shoes to see how they feel, if they are comfortable, and whether there are any areas of friction from the start. Shoes should not have to be broken in. Feel around the inside of the shoes to see if there are tags or seams that might irritate your foot. Finally, examine the soles of the shoes to see if they provide protection from sharp objects and have enough cushioning. For more advice on selecting the best shoes for your feet, consult with a podiatrist who is trained in everything related to the health of your feet and ankles.
Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Getting the Right Shoe Size
There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.
- When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
- Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
- Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
- Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
- If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes
As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Compression Socks and a Cold Foot Soak
There are many people who have jobs that require standing and working on their feet. Foot pain is a common ailment among people who are in this category and it can be reduced or diminished when the proper footwear is worn. It is beneficial to wear a shoe with a small heel and weakness and soreness can be reduced when work shoes have proper arch support. It is important that shoes fit correctly as this may prevent poor circulation and blisters from developing. Some people choose to wear compression socks, which can be helpful in reducing blood flow to the feet, and redirecting it toward the heart. When the workday is finished, the feet will feel better when they are soaked in cold water followed by massaging them. This is beneficial in reducing inflammation and swelling that can happen during the work day. If you would like additional information about how your feet can feel better at the end of the day, please speak with a podiatrist who can offer you effective foot care tips.
While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Working on Your Feet
Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.
Positive Changes
Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.
Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.
Eliminate Pain
Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.
Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen.
With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Simple Methods for Proper Diabetic Foot Care
Foot problems can easily develop in diabetic patients. A diabetic person may experience neuropathy, which is the inability to feel cuts or scrapes on the foot because of nerve damage. Elevated blood sugar levels also can cause the feet to become numb. Existing cuts can become infected, which may lead to developing a foot ulcer. If immediate treatment is not received, gangrene can develop and, in severe cases, amputation may become necessary. It is beneficial for diabetic patients to take proper care of their feet. This often starts with checking the feet daily for cuts and bruises, and many people use a mirror to do this. The toenails need to be trimmed properly, and this is often done by visiting a podiatrist. Glucose levels may be improved by quitting smoking, and eating a healthy, balanced diet daily. Additionally, the feet will feel more comfortable when the shoes that are worn fit properly, and this may prevent unnecessary foot conditions from developing. It is strongly advised for diabetic patients to be under the care of a podiatrist who can properly treat and manage this condition.
Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.
The Importance of Caring for Your Feet
- Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
- Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
- Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.
Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.
It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Types of Metatarsal Fractures
Of the 26 bones in the foot, the five long bones that connect the heel to the toes are the most frequently broken. These long bones, called metatarsals, can be injured in two ways: acute fractures and stress fractures. Acute metatarsal fractures can be caused by direct trauma to the foot, such as dropping something heavy on it or kicking a heavy object. Acute fractures are breaks in the bone. Stress fractures, on the other hand, are hairline cracks in the metatarsal, usually caused by repetitive use or overuse. They are common among runners, basketball players, dancers, and people who carry heavy packs while walking long distances. People with osteoporosis are also at risk for developing stress fractures. Symptoms felt with an acute metatarsal fracture are typically more severe than those from stress fractures. You may actually hear the crack as the bone breaks, and pain is immediate and specific. Movement of the foot will be difficult at best. With stress fractures, the symptoms develop gradually, starting out with general pain over a widespread area, which then becomes more and more noticeable. With either an acute metatarsal fracture or a stress fracture, it is imperative to see a podiatrist as soon as possible for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury.
Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:
- Bruising
- Pain
- Redness
- Swelling
- Blue in color
- Numbness
- Cold
- Misshapen
- Cuts
- Deformities
Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.
Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Benefits of Custom Orthotics
Scores of factory shoe inserts are readily available, but sometimes it becomes necessary to have insoles made specific to your feet. A podiatrist can make a mold for an insole that mirrors the exact contours of your foot. Slipping this into your shoe can increase your stability and balance while also reducing the pressure on the bottom of the foot when you take a step. These pressure points can have a negative effect on plantar fasciitis, poor circulation, and other causes of foot pain. Your podiatrist can also examine your gait–how your foot reacts when you stand or walk–to determine what additional adjustments may be needed to correct things like overpronation, flat feet, high arches, bunions, or metatarsal pressure. Custom orthotics may improve your foot health and keep you on your feet with minimal pain. If you frequently experience foot pain or have ongoing foot problems, it is a good idea to make an appointment with a podiatrist for more information.
If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Are Orthotics?
Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.
Over-the-Counter Inserts
Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.
Prescription Orthotics
If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.
If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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Select the Running Shoe That Is Best for Your Feet
Runners depend strongly on the shoes they wear to help them run efficiently, effectively, and safely. But it’s not enough to simply go out and buy a pair of running shoes, because they may not work well with your specific foot type. Three categories of running shoes are motion control shoes, stability shoes, and neutral or cushioned shoes. If you have no discernible foot problems, comfort is key. The best choice for normal feet is likely to be a stability shoe, which will provide both adequate motion control and cushioning. High arched feet have a narrow band between the forefoot and heel, reducing natural shock absorption with each step. Therefore, experts suggest wearing cushioned running shoes. For the runner who has flat feet, a high-stability or motion-control shoe is believed to be most beneficial. Harder and stiffer midsoles lessen the chance of the foot rolling inward. If you are unsure about which running shoe is best for your foot type, please consult a podiatrist who can examine your feet and offer guidance.
You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type
Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.
Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe
- Make sure you have a thumb’s width of wiggle room between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
- There should be little to no slipping at the heel
- Don’t assume your size in one shoe brand will be your size in another
- Do not lace up your shoes too tightly
- Walk around in the store with your new shoes before you buy them
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Ankle Pain That Is Not From an Injury
If your ankle hurts and you cannot recall doing anything that might have caused it, it could be a result of a type of arthritis, an autoimmune condition, or an infection. Obviously, the best treatment will depend on the root cause of the pain. Osteoarthritis is when the cartilage cushion between two bones gradually wears away, causing the bones to rub against each other. This might be painful, particularly upon arising, and it can come on suddenly. Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease when your body’s immune system begins attacking healthy tissue, including the lining of your ankle joints. This type of arthritis also causes pain, in addition to swelling and stiffness that begin in the toes and move toward the ankles. Fallen arches are when the tendons supporting the arches of the feet get damaged, the arches lose support and fall. An infection starting in a different part of your body may settle in the ankle joint. Any one of these ailments can cause ankle pain. If you feel such pain and believe you have not sustained an ankle injury, it is important to consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment for the underlying cause.
Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.
Causes
The most common causes of ankle pain include:
- Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
- Ankle sprains
- Broken ankles
- Achilles tendinitis
- Achilles tendon rupture
- Stress fractures
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome
- Plantar fasciitis
Symptoms
Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.
Diagnosis
Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Seniors and Plantar Fasciitis
Elderly people often develop foot problems and one of the most common is plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia ligament that connects the heel to the front of the foot is damaged by tiny tears. It is caused by repetitive injury or excessive strain which causes pain in the heel area of the foot and is most unbearable when first rising or after prolonged sitting. As with any disorder, this ailment can be prevented to some degree. There are a variety of things seniors can do to help ward off painful food disorders. Getting a gait analysis so that if there are issues with posture or the way one walks, they can be detected and corrected. Regularly stretching the calves and ankles can help prevent tight muscles and tendons that cause small tears in the heels of the feet. Wearing well-fitting, supportive shoes, with proper cushioning and arch support can reduce pressure on feet and help make walking and performing other activities more comfortable. Placing inserts that have deep heel cups and elongated cradles for the arches into regularly worn shoes can be used to assist with a flatter foot as one ages. If you are a senior or taking care of a senior who suffers from painful foot conditions like plantar fasciitis, it is suggested you see a podiatrist to have the feet evaluated and effective treatment prescribed.
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
- Excessive running
- Having high arches in your feet
- Other foot issues such as flat feet
- Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
- Being on your feet very often
There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.
Prevention
- Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
- Maintain a healthy weight
- If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain
There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
An Effective Stretch for an Achilles Tendon Injury
The Achilles tendon is considered to be the thickest and strongest tendon in the body. It connects the calf muscles to the heel and enables the patient to point and flex the foot. The Achilles tendon can become injured in an accident or due to improper warming up and cooling down before exercising. Some of the symptoms associated with an Achilles tendon injury can consist of heel pain while running and the back of the calf may feel stiff and tight. It is important to stop running when this type of injury occurs, as ample time is needed for the tendon to heal. It may be beneficial to perform stretches that can help to improve flexibility and range of motion of the Achilles tendon. An effective exercise is known as the eccentric heel drop. This is practiced by standing on a step and lowering the heel until a gentle stretch is felt. It can also be done facing a wall like the picture shows. If you have incurred an Achilles tendon injury it is strongly advised that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer you the correct treatment options.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M of Florida. Dr. Klein can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is the Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.
What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?
There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.
Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms
- Inflammation
- Dull to severe pain
- Increased blood flow to the tendon
- Thickening of the tendon
Rupture Symptoms
- Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
- Total immobility
Treatment and Prevention
Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:
- Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
- Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.