Items filtered by date: November 2024

A metatarsal stress fracture is a small crack in one of the five long bones in the foot, typically caused by repetitive pressure or overuse. Commonly seen in athletes, especially runners and dancers, these fractures can arise from sudden increases in activity, wearing improper footwear, or inadequate conditioning. Symptoms often include localized pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest, swelling, and tenderness in the midfoot area. Individuals may also experience difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected foot. Recognizing these signs early is essential for effective treatment and recovery. If left untreated, a stress fracture can lead to more severe injuries and prolonged downtime. If you have developed a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Ali Davis, DPM from The Foot Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Overland Park, KS . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis characterized by sudden and debilitating pain, swelling, and redness in the joints, often affecting the big toe. This condition arises from elevated levels of uric acid in the blood, leading to the formation of urate crystals in the joints. Several risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing gout, including a diet high in purines, which are found in foods such as red meat, shellfish, and alcohol. Obesity, certain medical conditions like hypertension and diabetes, and a family history of gout also contribute to risk. Common signs of gout include intense joint pain, particularly during the night, and tenderness or discomfort in the affected area. If you have had one or more gout episodes, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Ali Davis, DPM from The Foot Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Overland Park, KS . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.