Constant care and regular evaluation are important for a foot or ankle fracture. If left untreated, foot or ankle fractures can worsen over time and create more serious problems.
Don't wait to be examined if you believe you've experienced a foot or ankle fracture.
Stress fractures are hairline cracks in bones caused by repetitive stress rather than a sudden injury. Stress fractures, which are common among runners and athletes like basketball players, frequently affect the metatarsals, heel bone, and other weight-bearing bones in the foot and ankle. Symptoms of stress fractures usually start as mild pain during activity and gradually worsen, potentially leading to discomfort, even at rest. Contributing factors include sudden increases in activity levels, wearing improper footwear, or poor bone health. A podiatrist can diagnose stress fractures through imaging tests like MRI scans, as they are difficult to detect with X-rays. Treatment often involves using a walking boot or cast to immobilize the area and allow the bone to heal. In some cases, crutches may be necessary to reduce weight-bearing. A podiatrist can provide guidance on preventing future fractures by addressing footwear, activity modification, and proper nutrition for bone health. If you have foot pain caused by stress fractures, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.
Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Raul Hidalgo DPM from South Texas Foot & Ankle Care. 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 San Antonio, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Nighttime foot cramps can be a distressing experience, as they interrupt sleep and can cause significant pain. These involuntary muscle contractions often occur due to muscle fatigue, inadequate potassium intake, or low magnesium levels. Wearing poorly fitting shoes, particularly high heels that restrict blood flow or lack proper support, can also contribute to these painful episodes. Unlike restless leg syndrome, which creates an urge to move the legs, foot cramps involve sharp pain and tightening of the muscles. A podiatrist can identify the underlying cause of nocturnal foot cramps and recommend appropriate treatments, such as improving footwear choices, addressing muscle fatigue, or identifying potential deficiencies. They may also suggest a series of exercises designed to strengthen foot muscles or enhance flexibility to prevent future cramps. If you regularly experience painful foot cramps at night, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Raul Hidalgo DPM from South Texas Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor 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)
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 our office located in San Antonio, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
