Items filtered by date: April 2022

The long bones that are found in the midfoot are referred to as the metatarsals. A stress fracture is a hairline crack in the bones, and these specific bones can be affected. This type of fracture can happen as a result of overuse, and is common among patients who enjoy running. Many people increase their running speed and mileage too quickly, and this can put extreme pressure on the bones of the feet. Additionally, excess pressure exerted on the feet may come from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. It is important for stress fractures to be properly diagnosed, and this is generally done by having an X-ray taken. Relief can be found when the affected foot is elevated, and a cast or a boot may be worn for stability. If you have a stress fracture of the foot, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Eugene Little, DPM from Foot and Ankle Centers of Ohio. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                  
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Sidney, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

People who have diabetes should understand the importance of inspecting their feet every single day. This is an effective method to check for any cuts, bruises, or wounds that may have developed. Patients who have this condition can have neuropathy, which is a loss of feeling in the feet, and checking the bottom of the feet with a mirror is important to do too. Diabetes occurs as a result of elevated glucose levels in the blood. It is imperative that tests are performed daily which can check sugar levels. Additionally, it can help when cholesterol levels are monitored, and smoking is stopped. It may help to control glucose levels by eating foods that are healthy and becoming physically active. Many diabetic patients find it helpful to have their podiatrist trim their toenails and check their feet. If you have diabetes, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to 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 Eugene Little, DPM from Foot and Ankle Centers of Ohio. Our doctor 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 Sidney, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

If you sometimes experience redness and burning in your feet, as well as other body parts, you may have a disorder known as erythromelalgia. Flare-ups, which can last for days, usually start out as itching, which then becomes burning pain, redness and mottled skin. Erythromelalgia can affect your ability to stand, exercise and sleep. Its symptoms may be triggered by an increase in body temperature after exercising, wearing warm socks, being dehydrated, or even eating spicy food. The cause for most people is unknown, but erythromelalgia has been linked to several underlying conditions, including peripheral neuropathy, rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. It also may be triggered by taking certain medications. Self-treatment is not recommended, as it may lead to more serious problems. Instead, if you think this condition is affecting your feet, as well as limiting your daily activities, it is wise to seek the counsel of a podiatrist for analysis and possible treatment options. 

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly.  If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Eugene Little, DPM from Foot and Ankle Centers of Ohio. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable.  Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Sidney, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.