What Are the Causes and Symptoms of a Broken Foot?
A broken foot, also known as a foot fracture, is a common injury that can occur due to various causes and manifests with distinct symptoms. Trauma from accidents, falls, or sports injuries is a primary culprit behind foot fractures, leading to cracks or breaks in the bones. Symptoms of a broken foot include pain, swelling, and bruising around the affected area, making weight-bearing difficult or impossible. Patients may also experience tenderness to touch, deformity, or an audible snap or pop at the time of injury. In severe cases, the broken bone may protrude through the skin, causing an open fracture. Recognizing these symptoms is vital for a prompt diagnosis and treatment, which may involve immobilization, pain management, and in some cases, surgical intervention to ensure proper healing and restoration of foot function. If you suspect you have broken your foot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can confirm the diagnosis, and offer treatment that is best suited for you.
A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact the podiatrists from Issaquah Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury.
Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:
- Bruising
- Pain
- Redness
- Swelling
- Blue in color
- Numbness
- Cold
- Misshapen
- Cuts
- Deformities
Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.
Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Issaquah, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment for a Broken Foot
The human foot has 26 different bones, and the foot is divided into three parts: the hindfoot, the midfoot, and the forefoot. Each section of the foot is composed of a different amount of bones. For instance, the forefoot is made up of 19 bones. The midfoot is composed of five smaller bones called the navicular, cuboid, and three cuneiform bones. Lastly, the hindfoot is made up of only the talus and the calcaneus. The feet tend to be vulnerable to slipping and twisting; consequently, fractured bones within the foot are common. When a bone gets crushed, bent, twisted, or stretched it may become broken.
Many foot fractures occur through an accident or trauma. More specifically, common causes for broken feet are car accidents, falls, missteps, or overuse. If you have a broken ankle or foot, you may have one or more of the following symptoms: throbbing pain, swelling, bruising, tenderness, deformities, and difficulty walking.
There are some factors that may put you at a higher risk of developing a broken foot. People who participate in high-impact sports are more likely to develop foot fractures because of the stresses, direct blows, and twisting injuries involved in gameplay. Additionally, those who suddenly increase their activity level are more likely to suffer a stress fracture.
Unfortunately, there are different complications that may arise because of a foot fracture. For instance, arthritis may be caused by fractures that extend into the joints. Bone infections are also possible in open fractures due to the bone being exposed to bacteria. However, there are ways you can help prevent yourself from breaking your foot. One way to avoid fractures is to wear proper footwear. If you plan on going on a run, you should wear running shoes. You should also replace your shoes if you notice that they are becoming worn out. For runners, it is best to replace shoes every 300 to 400 miles.
Treatment for foot fractures usually consists of rest, ice, elevation, and compression (RICE). If you plan on wrapping your foot, try not to wrap it too tightly because doing so may cut off blood supply in the foot. You should also avoid walking on the fractured foot.
If you suspect you have a broken foot, you should see your podiatrist right away. It is important that you have someone bring you to your doctor, since driving with a broken foot can be dangerous. You should especially seek urgent care if you are experiencing numbness, pain, or deformities in your foot.
Myths About Custom Orthotics
Custom foot orthoses have a rich history, dating back to the mid-19th century when Lewis Durlacher created molded leather devices to address foot issues for Queen Victoria. Over the years, several myths have emerged about the function and effects of custom orthoses. First, custom orthotics are personalized medical devices designed to optimize foot and lower extremity function by modifying ground reaction forces' timing, location, and magnitude. They do not force the foot into specific joint positions but work with their unique morphology, stiffness, and cushioning properties to achieve therapeutic goals. Custom foot orthoses serve various purposes, from relieving diabetic neuropathic ulcers to reducing tension stress in conditions like plantar fasciitis. They also redirect ground reaction forces to prevent bending moments responsible for stress fractures and other issues. That there is one best way to design custom orthoses is another myth. The flexibility of custom orthoses allows for tailored solutions for different pathologies. Lastly, the notion that custom foot orthoses weaken feet over time lacks scientific backing. In fact, research suggests that they can enhance foot muscle activation. If you would like to understand more about how custom orthotics might help you, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.
If you’re experiencing foot discomfort, have a history of foot and ankle injuries, or are interested in exploring Custom orthotics, don’t hesitate to contact the podiatrists at Issaquah Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors is dedicated to offering the care required to help you remain pain-free and stay on your feet.
What are Custom Orthotics?
Custom orthotics refer to custom inserts designed for placement in different shoe types, including athletic and formal footwear, with the purpose of alleviating a spectrum of foot-related problems such as flat feet, heel pain, and overall foot discomfort. These inserts are instrumental in providing relief and comfort for a diverse range of foot conditions, including heel pain, and can also act as a proactive approach to injury prevention.
Medical Grade Shoe Inserts:
A diverse array of shoe inserts is available for addressing foot pain, heel discomfort, and minor issues. For instance, you can place arch supports in your shoes to rectify overarched or flat feet, and gel and cushioned insoles are frequently chosen for the comfort and relief they provide from foot and heel pain by reducing pressure.
If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Issaquah, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Investing in Custom Orthotics Means Investing in Foot Health
Custom orthotics offer a tailored approach to foot health, providing a host of benefits that extend far beyond conventional shoe inserts. One of the primary advantages lies in their ability to address specific biomechanical issues. Unlike off-the-shelf inserts, custom orthotics are crafted based on an individual's unique foot structure, gait, and any existing foot conditions.
The personalized design of custom orthotics ensures optimal support for the arches, promoting proper alignment and distributing pressure evenly across the feet. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals dealing with issues such as overpronation or underpronation, as custom orthotics help correct imbalances that may lead to discomfort or injury.
Beyond biomechanics, custom orthotics can alleviate a range of foot problems, including plantar fasciitis, bunions, and metatarsalgia. They provide targeted relief to areas under stress, reducing pain and inflammation. Additionally, for those with specific medical conditions like diabetes, custom orthotics can play a crucial role in preventing complications associated with poor foot health.
Comfort is another key aspect of custom orthotics. By accommodating the unique contours of an individual's feet, these inserts enhance overall comfort, making daily activities more enjoyable. Whether for athletes looking to optimize performance or individuals seeking relief from chronic foot pain, custom orthotics offer a versatile solution.
Investing in custom orthotics is an investment in long-term foot health. They not only provide immediate relief but also contribute to the prevention of future issues. With the ability to seamlessly integrate into various types of footwear, custom orthotics empower individuals to prioritize foot comfort without compromising on style. In essence, custom orthotics are a personalized prescription for happy, healthy, and pain-free feet.
Medical Procedures for Foot Corns
Corns, which are hardened skin areas caused by friction, can be treated through various methods, but it is important to know that they will not disappear overnight. Conservative treatments involve reducing friction by changing shoes and trimming toenails properly. These are often effective in resolving corns. Surgical removal is reserved for severe cases when other treatments fail, and it is not recommended to attempt this on your own due to the risk of infection. Whether or not you should remove a corn depends on its impact on your daily life and overall health. Mild corns that do not bother you can be left alone, while severe symptoms may require podiatric evaluation, especially if you have conditions such as diabetes affecting foot sensation. Surgical options, cortisone injections, or podiatrist-assisted shaving are available for severe cases, with specific aftercare instructions. If you have a bothersome foot corn and symptoms persist, worsen, or interfere with your daily life, or if you have underlying health issues, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for more advanced treatment.
Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact the podiatrists of Issaquah Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.
Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:
- Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
- Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
- Wearing only shoes that offer support
Treating Corns
Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Issaquah, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Understanding Corns and Calluses
Corns and Calluses are both hardened layers of thickened skin that develop because of friction. Both ailments are typically found on the feet and may be unsightly. Although they have similarities, corns and calluses are different from each other.
Some causes of corns and calluses may be wearing ill-fitting shoes and not wearing socks. If you wear tight shoes, your feet will constantly be forced to rub against the shoes, causing friction. If you fail to wear socks, you are also causing your feet to endure excess friction.
There are some signs that may help you determine whether you have one of these two conditions. The first symptom is a thick, rough area of skin. Another common symptom is a hardened, raised bump on the foot. You may also experience tenderness or pain under the skin in addition to flaky, dry, or waxy skin.
There are also risk factors that may make someone more prone to developing corns and calluses. If you are already dealing with bunions or hammertoe, you may be more vulnerable to having corns and calluses as well. Other risk factors are foot deformities such as bone spurs, which can cause constant rubbing inside the shoe.
Corns tend to be smaller than calluses and they usually have a hard center surrounded by inflamed skin. They also tend to develop on the parts of the body that don’t bear as much weight such as the tops and sides of toes. Corns may also be painful for those who have them. On the other hand, calluses are rarely painful. These tend to develop on the bottom of the feet and may vary in size and shape.
Fortunately, most people only need treatment for corns and calluses if they are experiencing discomfort. At home treatments for corns and calluses should be avoided, because they will likely lead to infection. If you have either of these ailments it is advised that you consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for you.
Reduce Foot Pain With Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy treatments are administered outside the body and are non-invasive. A handheld transducer placed on the skin passes high-energy sound waves down into the injured tissue to increase blood flow. This activates the body’s natural healing process and reduces pain and inflammation. Shockwave therapy has provided fast results in treating heel pain, tendonitis, bursitis, and more with no needles or steroids.
Contact our office to learn more!
Swollen Ankles Can Signal Health Problems
Swollen feet can serve as an indicator of underlying health issues, primarily stemming from fluid retention in body tissues. This phenomenon, known as edema, results from disruptions in the intricate processes of the circulatory system that can lead to the accumulation of excess fluid, resulting in swollen feet. Various factors contribute to edema, such as prolonged periods of standing that may impede blood flow, pregnancy-induced physiological changes, and varicose veins. In cases of congestive heart failure, the heart's inability to pump blood efficiently leads to blood stagnation, commonly causing edema in the lower limbs. Lymphedema, a consequence of a malfunctioning lymphatic system, can result from surgical procedures or genetic disorders, leading to fluid accumulation. Thyroid disorders, menstrual hormonal fluctuations, and liver damage, particularly cirrhosis caused by long-term alcohol exposure, are additional contributors to edema. Kidney disorders, such as nephrotic syndrome, can cause inefficient water removal and subsequent edema. For help with swollen feet or ankles, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and diagnosis.
Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact the podiatrists of Issaquah Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:
- Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
- Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
- Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
- Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
- Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.
Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet.
Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Issaquah, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Swelling of the Feet
There are many reasons why patients experience swelling of the feet. It is rather common and may be a side effect of pregnancy or from sitting and standing for most of the day. Gravity could also play a role in the development of swollen feet. It is known that the weight of blood volume in our bodies is exerted on the veins in the legs and feet. The veins may not work as efficiently during the aging process, and this could make the blood flow backward causing swollen feet. Relief may be found when obese patients lose weight, and it may help to engage in compression therapy by wearing compression socks, stockings, or athletic sleeves. This method can release pressure on the feet and ankles which may help to reduce existing swelling. There are patients who have controlled their swollen feet by implementing healthy lifestyle changes. These can consist of reducing salt intake, incorporating a gentle exercise regime into the daily routine, and drinking plenty of fresh water. Swollen feet may be a temporary condition that affects people who travel via airplane or automobile, so it is beneficial to walk as frequently as possible even though it can be difficult. Swelling of the feet can also be indicative of other health issues so it is important to pay attention to any type of chest pain, mental confusion, dizziness, or fever. If you consistently have swollen feet, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can help determine the cause and how to effectively treat it.
How Custom-Made Orthotics Can Help You
Custom-made orthotics are specialized devices designed to support and improve the function of the feet and lower limbs, offering a personalized solution for individuals with various lower limb problems. These devices are meticulously crafted based on an individual's unique foot structure and specific health needs, providing targeted support where it is most needed. They work by aligning the foot and ankle into their most anatomically efficient position, thereby alleviating stress and strain on the lower limbs. This tailored approach can significantly help in managing conditions such as flat feet, plantar fasciitis, bunions, and arthritis, as well as in alleviating discomfort caused by long periods of standing or walking. By improving foot mechanics, custom orthotics not only address immediate pain and discomfort but also aid in preventing future musculoskeletal issues. They are often recommended by podiatrists, as a key component in a comprehensive treatment plan for lower limb ailments. If you would like to learn how custom-made orthotics can help you, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist today.
If you are experiencing discomfort in your feet and would like to try custom orthotics, contact the podiatrists from Issaquah Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Are Custom Orthotics?
Custom orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain.
Over-the-Counter Inserts
Shoe inserts come in a wide variety and are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.
Prescription Orthotics
If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality, custom inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.
If you're experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibility of using custom orthotics or shoe inserts. A podiatrist can determine which type of custom orthotic or shoe insert is right for you and help you take the first steps toward being pain-free.
If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Issaquah, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
