Items filtered by date: June 2024

A foot stress fracture is a small crack or severe bruising within a bone, often resulting from repetitive force or overuse rather than a single traumatic event. Common causes include high-impact sports, sudden increases in physical activity, and wearing inadequate footwear. Stress fractures frequently occur in the weight-bearing bones of the foot, such as the metatarsals. Symptoms include pain that worsens with activity and diminishes with rest, swelling, and tenderness at the fracture site. Recovery time for a foot stress fracture typically ranges from six to eight weeks, depending on the severity and adherence to treatment. Proper rest, wearing supportive footwear, and gradually returning to activities are essential for healing. In some cases, immobilization with a boot or crutches may be necessary. If your foot hurts, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat stress fractures.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Lawrence Fallat, DPM from Michigan. 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 offices located in Canton and Taylor, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

As women enter their 40s, specific foot care becomes important to maintain overall health and mobility. Common foot issues like plantar fasciitis, bunions, and arthritis can affect women more significantly due to factors like hormonal changes, pregnancy, and footwear choices over the years. To avoid exacerbating these issues, it is beneficial for women to steer clear of high heels and narrow-toed shoes, which can lead to foot deformities and chronic pain. Additionally, prolonged wearing of flip-flops or flats without proper support can strain the arches and contribute to plantar fasciitis. Instead, opt for supportive footwear with cushioning and roomy toe boxes to accommodate natural foot shape and reduce pressure points. Regular foot exercises and stretches can also help alleviate discomfort and maintain flexibility. If you are a female and experiencing problems with your feet as you age, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for personalized care and treatment for long-term foot health.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Lawrence Fallat, DPM from Michigan. 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)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

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 offices located in Canton and Taylor, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete's foot, medically known as tinea pedis, has a history dating back centuries. Its first documented mention dates to ancient Egypt, where papyrus scrolls described skin infections resembling the symptoms of modern-day athlete's foot. However, it was not until the 20th century that the condition garnered significant attention. The rise of urbanization, the use of closed shoes with socks that retained moisture, and the increased use of communal bathing facilities during the early 1900s contributed to the widespread occurrence of athlete's foot. Additionally, the damp and unsanitary conditions prevalent during World Wars I and II facilitated its rapid spread among soldiers in trenches and barracks. Despite advancements in hygiene and healthcare, athlete's foot remains a prevalent issue today. The fungus thrives in warm, moist environments such as locker rooms and swimming pools. If left untreated, it can lead to discomfort, itching, and skin breakdown. If you think you have athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for guidance in managing this condition.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Lawrence Fallat, DPM from Michigan.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Canton and Taylor, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Fashion trends often dictate footwear choices, but some styles can take a toll on foot health, particularly for women. High heels, revered for their elegance and sophistication, are notorious culprits in causing a myriad of foot problems. The elevated heel places excessive pressure on the forefoot, leading to issues like bunions, hammertoes, and neuromas. Moreover, prolonged wear of high heels can shorten the Achilles tendon, contributing to calf tightness and discomfort. The narrow toe box squeezes toes together, increasing the risk of ingrown toenails and corns. Additionally, high heels alter the body's natural alignment, leading to lower back pain and postural imbalances. Despite their allure, high heels can wreak havoc on foot anatomy and function. Opting for footwear with lower heels and adequate arch support can help reduce these risks while still maintaining style. Wearing high heels may cause foot pain, and there are a variety of foot conditions that can develop. If this applies to you, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can treat foot ailments from high heel use.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Lawrence Fallat, DPM from Michigan. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Canton and Taylor, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.