A hairline fracture that happens in the foot is known as a stress fracture. It can occur in one or more of the 26 bones in each foot and causes difficulty walking. A stress fracture happens gradually, and a common reason is from increasing speed and distance too quickly while running. After a proper diagnosis has been performed, which is generally done by having an MRI taken, treatment can begin. The foot has a better chance of making a complete recovery by keeping weight off of it, and crutches can be useful in accomplishing this. Many patients find it helpful to wrap the affected foot with an elastic bandage, which can help provide the necessary stability as the healing process occurs. If you have foot pain and think you may have a stress fracture, it is strongly urged that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can provide you with the correct medical treatment.
Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Corinne R. Kauderer, DPM from Dyker Heights Foot & Ankle. 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 Brooklyn, NY and Old Bridge, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Arthritis often strikes the joint connecting the big toe to the ball of the foot and can cause significant pain. This affliction is more common as one ages and cartilage wears away between the bones. A surgery can be performed where the bones are fused together with metal plates, but this can limit the flexibility of the toe. Another option is a type of implant that can be inserted between the bones and can cushion the aching joint. Such an implant can be as small as a miniature marshmallow. It is made of saline solution and polyvinyl alcohol, like that used in soft contact lenses. This material compresses a bit under pressure, much like real cartilage. If you suffer from arthritis in the big toe, consult with a podiatrist to see if surgery is a treatment that is right for you.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Corinne R. Kauderer, DPM of Dyker Heights Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:
Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
Cosmetic reconstruction
What Types of Surgery Are There?
The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:
Bunionectomy for painful bunions
Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage
Benefits of Surgery
Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.
Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Brooklyn, NY and Old Bridge, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Most people who have diabetes are aware of the importance of taking proper care of their feet. This often begins with checking the bottom of the feet for existing cuts and scrapes and can be done by using a mirror. A caregiver or family member may be able to help with this task if the patient is unable to perform this. Many diabetic patients develop neuropathy, which is the inability to feel sensations on the feet. This can happen from nerve damage, which may occur from having elevated blood glucose levels. An additional complication of diabetes is poor circulation, which may increase the risk of developing a foot ulcer. Effective management advice for diabetic patients consists of refraining from walking barefoot, trimming the toenails correctly, and implementing a gentle exercise and stretching regime. If you have diabetes, it is strongly urged that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can monitor and 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 Corinne R. Kauderer, DPM from Dyker Heights Foot & Ankle. 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 one of our offices located in Brooklyn, NY and Old Bridge, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek the professional help of your podiatrist and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.
