While running is a popular fitness exercise, it places repeated stress on the feet and ankles that can lead to pain. Common reasons for running pain include overuse, weak or tight muscles, and wearing shoes that no longer provide enough support. Previous injuries, such as ankle sprains, can also cause lasting weakness and make new injuries more likely. Running pain also may develop from Achilles tendon problems, plantar fasciitis, or stress fractures. Some runners feel pain in the heel, while others notice it in the arch, ankle, or along the side of the foot. A podiatrist can examine the foot and ankle to find the source of the pain. Treatment includes custom orthotics, bracing, and guidance on better running shoes. Surgery may be needed if the injury is severe. If you have foot or ankle pain while running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment. 

All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact the podiatrists of Issaquah Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.

More Tips for Preventing Injury

• Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
• Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
• “Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
• Cross-Training is Crucial
• Wear Proper Running Shoes
• Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause injury

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 care needs.

Compartment syndrome is a medical emergency that can develop in the foot after a severe injury, like a fracture or crush injury. The foot contains groups of muscles held within tight spaces called compartments, surrounded by a firm tissue known as fascia. When swelling or bleeding occurs, pressure can build inside these spaces and reduce blood flow. This limits oxygen to the muscles and nerves, leading to intense pain, swelling, and a tight or firm feeling in the foot. People may also notice numbness or tingling, often described as a pins-and-needles sensation. Pain may worsen with toe movement. If not treated quickly, compartment syndrome can lead to muscle damage, deformity, and long-term loss of foot function. A podiatrist can conduct a physical exam, order imaging, and perform surgery to relieve pressure. If you have symptoms of compartment syndrome, it is suggested that you make an immediate appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

Foot and ankle trauma is common among athletes and the elderly. If you have concerns that you may have experienced trauma to the foot and ankle, consult with the podiatrists from Issaquah Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Foot and ankle trauma cover a range of injuries all over the foot; common injuries include:

• Broken bones
• Muscle strains
• Injuries to the tendons and ligaments
• Stress fractures

Symptoms

Symptoms of foot and ankle injuries vary depending on the injury, but more common ones include:

• Bruising
• Inflammation/ Swelling
• Pain

Diagnosis

To properly diagnose the exact type of injury, podiatrists will conduct a number of different tests. Some of these include sensation and visual tests, X-rays, and MRIs. Medical and family histories will also be taken into account.

Treatment

Once the injury has been diagnosed, the podiatrist can than offer the best treatment options for you. In less severe cases, rest and keeping pressure off the foot may be all that’s necessary. Orthotics, such as a specially made shoes, or immobilization devices, like splints or casts, may be deemed necessary. Finally, if the injury is severe enough, surgery may be necessary.

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 care needs.

Foot pain can affect everyday movement and comfort. It can develop from poor foot alignment, flat feet, high arches, or repeated stress on the feet from standing, walking, or running. When the foot does not move in a balanced way, extra pressure can build in certain areas. This can lead to heel pain, arch soreness, aching in the ball of the foot, or discomfort in the ankles and lower legs. Some people may also notice swelling or fatigue after activity. Orthotic treatment can help by supporting the natural shape of the foot and improving alignment during movement. This support helps spread pressure more evenly and reduces strain on joints and soft tissues. With better balance, the body can move with less discomfort and improved stability. If foot pain is limiting your daily activity, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to see if orthotics are the right treatment for you.

Custom orthotics play an important role in preventing and treating foot and ankle injuries by providing personalized support that aligns with the unique structure of each foot. These specially designed devices help correct biomechanical imbalances, reduce pressure on sensitive areas, and improve stability during movement. When the feet are properly supported, the risk of developing conditions such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, and ankle sprains can be significantly reduced. Custom orthotics also help relieve discomfort caused by having flat feet, high arches, or uneven leg length, which may contribute to recurring injuries or pain.

Foot and ankle injuries can develop gradually from repetitive strain or occur suddenly during physical activity. Without proper treatment, these injuries can affect mobility and overall quality of life. Orthotics work to redistribute weight evenly across the foot, allowing joints and muscles to function more efficiently. This not only supports recovery from injury but can also prevent future problems by promoting better posture and alignment throughout the lower body.

Unlike over-the-counter inserts, custom orthotics are designed based on a detailed evaluation of each patient’s foot structure, gait, and medical needs. Podiatrists use advanced imaging and diagnostic tools to create orthotics that fit precisely and provide targeted correction. Whether used in everyday footwear or athletic shoes, custom orthotics can improve comfort, enhance performance, and support long-term foot health.

If you are experiencing foot or ankle pain or have sustained an injury that has not improved with rest, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. Call our office for more information or to make an appointment.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Issaquah, WA . 

Paying attention to your feet can help catch problems early and keep you comfortable. Start by looking at your feet each day. Check for color changes, swelling, cracks, or areas that feel warm or tender. Notice any thickened nails or changes in shape. Use a mirror, if needed, to see the bottoms. Clean your feet with mild soap and warm water, then dry them well, especially between the toes. Apply moisturizer to prevent dryness, but avoid the spaces between toes. Trim nails straight across and wear well-fitting shoes that do not rub or pinch. Additionally, replace worn footwear and choose socks that keep feet dry. Staying active can support circulation and overall foot health. If you notice ongoing changes or have foot discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist for a proper evaluation and appropriate care plan.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. 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.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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 care needs.

Ankle pain can occur when the bones, ligaments, tendons, or joints in the ankle become injured or irritated. The ankle joint connects the leg to the foot. It forms where the shin bone, calf bone, and a bone in the foot meet and move together. This type of joint allows the foot to bend up and down when walking, running, or standing. Strong bands of tissue called ligaments help hold the bones together and keep the joint stable. Tendons, which connect muscles to bones, also help control movement. When these tissues are stretched, torn, inflamed, or damaged, ankle pain can develop. One of the most common causes is an ankle sprain, which happens when the ligaments stretch too far or tear. Other causes include broken bones, arthritis that causes joint pain and stiffness, and tendinitis, which is irritation of a tendon. A podiatrist can identify the cause of ankle pain and provide appropriate treatment. If you are experiencing ankle pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with the podiatrists from Issaquah Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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.