October 2022

A stress fracture of the foot can be painful, and it may cause challenges in completing daily activities. It is also known as a hairline fracture, and will gradually worsen if not treated promptly. This type of break is defined as a tiny crack in any of the foot bones, or it may occur in the lower leg. It is a common injury among people who enjoy participating in running and jumping activities, and the bones may gradually become weaker from repetitive use. Additionally, it may happen as a result of increasing speed or mileage too quickly while running. Patients who have nutritional imbalances or who have had previous stress fractures may be prone to having them occur again. This type of fracture is generally treated by resting the affected foot and temporarily stopping the activity that caused this condition. Research has indicated that a complete recovery generally takes approximately eight weeks, and may be accelerated by performing low impact exercises like swimming or cycling. If you have endured a stress fracture, please consider speaking with a podiatrist who can help you with the treatment plan that is correct for you.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Central Ohio Comprehensive Foot Care. 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 feel free to contact one of our offices located in Delaware and Westerville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A ganglion cyst is a non-cancerous lump filled with a gel-like fluid. Ganglion cysts typically develop along a tendon or joint, such as the ankle or on the top of the foot. It is generally not painful, unless it presses on a nearby nerve. This non-cancerous growth may appear round or oval, and its location may inhibit foot or ankle movement. A ganglion cyst usually develops over time, often as the result of repeated irritation. This causes fluid to leak out from a tendon tunnel and begin to swell under the skin. Formation of a ganglion cyst also may be the result of trauma or an underlying medical condition, such as arthritis. A podiatrist can draw fluid from a cyst as well as do imaging tests to determine what it is and what may be causing it. Often a ganglion cyst will simply go away on its own, but it can be treated if it is causing pain or irritation. Treatment options include drawing out the fluid and injecting anti-inflammatory medication, and removing the cyst entirely. If you think you may have developed a ganglion cyst, please consult a podiatrist for a diagnostic test and treatment plan.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Central Ohio Comprehensive Foot Care. Our doctors 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 Delaware and Westerville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The three most common kinds of arthritis are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid, and psoriatic, despite the fact that there are more than 100 various types. When arthritis affects the feet, there are methods that can be implemented which may help to diminish the pain that is associated with it. The muscles in the feet can become stronger when elastic resistance bands are used, and this may help to support the joints. Additionally, practicing aerobic exercises several times per week can add to the endurance and improve overall fitness. Research has indicated the joints may become flexible when consistent yoga stretches and pilates movements are practiced. Balance may be increased by partaking in tai chi, which may possibly help to strengthen the joints in the feet. Arthritis in the feet can be uncomfortable, and it is suggested that these types of exercises are performed that may help to obtain mild relief. For more information on arthritic pain, it is suggested you make an appointment with a podiatrist.  

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Central Ohio Comprehensive Foot Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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

Many professions require workers to stand on hard surfaces all day. Because of this requirement, it is no wonder their feet and ankles become tired and sore. The muscles and tendons of the feet and legs can become stiff and the tendons throughout the feet can become calcified, which can cause various health problems, including ligament damage, ankle sprains, and more. Standing on your feet all day can put stress on bones in the body and interfere with proper circulation that can lead to clogged arteries and heart disease. It should be uplifting to know there are some simple things that can be done to help alleviate discomfort. These things include taking regular rest breaks, breaking up routine movements by varying tasks throughout the day, and wearing well-fitting, supportive shoes, with good arch support. When the day is done, one can get relief from doing regular foot soaks, massaging the feet, stretching the legs and feet, and elevating them. Seeing a podiatrist can help with providing additional suggestions for how to deal with pressure that builds up in the muscles from prolonged standing.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Central Ohio Comprehensive Foot Care. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Delaware and Westerville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.