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Metatarsal stress fractures, affecting the long bones in the foot, can vary in severity and type. Stress fractures, common in athletes and runners, result from repetitive impact or overuse, causing tiny cracks in the bone. These types of fractures typically develop gradually, causing pain, tenderness, and swelling that worsen with activity. Overuse, such as prolonged walking or running on hard surfaces without adequate rest, increases the risk of foot stress fractures. Proper diagnosis through imaging and treatment, including rest, immobilization, and sometimes surgery, is essential for recovery and preventing long-term complications associated with metatarsal fractures. If you have foot pain and believe you may have a stress fracture, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat this type of foot injury.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Institue. Our doctors 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 contact one of our offices located in St. George, Hurricane, and Cedar City, UT and Mesquite, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

An Achilles tendon injury involves damage to the tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. This tendon plays a vital role in walking, running, and jumping by enabling movement of the foot and supporting the body’s weight. Injuries typically arise from excessive stress or sudden movements, often due to overuse, especially in sports, or from sudden increases in activity levels. Other contributing factors include poor footwear or inadequate warm-up routines. Common symptoms of an Achilles tendon injury can include sharp pain at the back of the ankle, swelling, and difficulty while walking or standing on tiptoe. If you have endured this type of injury, it is strongly suggested that you promptly visit a podiatrist who can offer you effective treatment solutions.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Institue. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in St. George, Hurricane, and Cedar City, UT and Mesquite, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Diabetic foot is a term used to describe various complications that arise in the feet of individuals with diabetes. Due to prolonged high blood sugar levels, diabetic patients often experience nerve damage, neuropathy, and poor circulation. This can lead to a loss of sensation in the feet, making injuries and infections more likely and harder to detect and heal. Common issues include ulcers, infections, and, in severe cases, gangrene, which can necessitate amputation. To manage and prevent diabetic foot complications, daily foot care is crucial. Inspect your feet daily for cuts, blisters, redness, or swelling. Keep feet clean and moisturized, but avoid applying lotion between the toes to prevent fungal infections. Wear well-fitting shoes and avoid walking barefoot. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you make regular appointments with a podiatrist to monitor your foot health.

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 one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Institue. Our doctors 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 St. George, Hurricane, and Cedar City, UT and Mesquite, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle sprains are a common injury that can affect anyone, with athletes being particularly susceptible due to their physical activities. However, even non-athletes can suffer ankle sprains, just by missing a step or from wearing high heels. Ankle sprains vary in type and severity. The most common type is the inversion ankle sprain, where the foot twists inward, overstretching the outer ligaments of the ankle. It is a common issue for basketball players and other athletes who frequently jump. Less frequent is the eversion sprain, where the foot turns outward, typically affecting gymnasts. The rarest is the high ankle sprain, involving the ligaments between the tibia and fibula bones of the calf. Sprains are classified into three grades. Grade 1 involves minor stretching and swelling, and grade 2 includes partial ligament tears with significant swelling and pain. Grade 3 is the most severe, with complete ligament tears and substantial loss of motion. Whether the sprain is mild or severe, seeing a podiatrist is essential for an accurate diagnosis and treatment to prevent future ankle injuries. If you believe you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Institue. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in St. George, Hurricane, and Cedar City, UT and Mesquite, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.