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Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!
Runners May Be Prone to Stress Fractures
Patients who enjoy running marathons are familiar with the possibility of getting stress fractures. They can happen as a result of increasing mileage and speed too soon and not warming up properly before running. A stress fracture is defined as a hairline fracture in the bones that can gradually develop over time. The symptoms that patients experience include pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. Additional reasons why this type of injury can occur include wearing shoes that do not fit correctly or frequently changing running surfaces. After a proper diagnosis is performed, which generally consists of having an X-ray taken, treatment can begin. Treatment options can include wearing a protective boot for approximately six weeks. If you have endured a stress fracture, please speak with a podiatrist as soon as possible.
Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM from Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors 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 Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and AnkleRisk Factors for Cuboid Syndrome
Cuboid syndrome occurs when the cuboid bone in the foot moves down and out of alignment with the calcaneus bone. This can happen due to sudden injury or from repetitive overuse from activities and sports that involve a lot of jumping, changing directions, or sprinting. Symptoms of cuboid syndrome include foot pain, swelling, tenderness, weakness, and a decreased range of motion. Certain risk factors can make cuboid syndrome more likely. These include being overweight or obese, having pronated feet, wearing poorly-fitted shoes, training on uneven surfaces, and having a previous or concurrent ankle or foot sprain. If you are experiencing the symptoms of cuboid syndrome, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.
Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM from Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.
Causes
The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:
- Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
- Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
- Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.
Symptoms
A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Why Live with Pain and Numbness in Your Feet?
Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.
Athlete's Foot Symptoms
Athlete’s foot refers to a fungal infection of the skin on the feet. While the infection is common among athletes, you don’t have to be one to get it. Athlete’s foot is contagious and spreads through direct contact between the fungus and your skin. You can pick up this infection from walking barefoot in public spaces, particularly in warm, moist environments such as locker rooms and swimming pools, or from sharing personal items such as towels and socks. Athlete’s foot has several noticeable symptoms, including an itching, stinging, or burning sensation between the toes or on the soles, and dry, cracking, peeling, or raw skin on the feet. Often this infection can spread to the toenails, causing them to become discolored, thick, and crumbly. If you have symptoms of athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for treatment.
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 Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM from Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors 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 office located in Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
What Does Sever's Disease Look Like?
Sever’s disease is an overuse injury common in younger children and adolescents who participate in running or jumping activities. This condition is caused by repetitive injury to the growth plate in the heel. If your child has Sever’s disease, they will often exhibit heel pain that begins gradually and worsens with exercise, affects both feet, and improves with rest. They may also exhibit tenderness in their heel when it is touched, pain when the ankle is raised upward, and mild swelling in the heel. In cases that have lasted for a longer period of time, your child may also have an enlarged heel bone. If your child complains of heel pain, it is recommended that you seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat Sever’s disease and other foot and ankle conditions.
Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM from Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.
Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.
Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.
Symptoms
Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.
Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
Plantar Warts Can Be Treated!
Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!
Can Obesity Cause Flat Feet?
Obesity has become increasingly common worldwide in recent years. This condition has implications for the health of the whole body, including foot health. Prevalence of flat feet, a condition characterized by a lack of an arch at the midfoot, appears to be higher in obese people. While many cases of flat feet are caused by genetics, flat feet can also be an acquired condition that occurs when the arch of the foot weakens and collapses over time. Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of the arch flattening, as the feet bear the weight of the entire body. This can be a problem, as flat feet can cause foot pain in the heel and arch areas. For more information about the connection between your weight and your foot health, please consult with a podiatrist.
The more you weigh, the harder your feet must work to support your body. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM from Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Obesity and Your Feet
People who are overweight are putting more pressure on their ankles, knees, and hips as well as their feet. This unfortunately can lead to variety of different issues.
Problems & Complications Stemming from Obesity
- When the body is overweight, it tries to compensate by changing the way that it moves. An obese person may lean forward and put extra weight on the wrong part of the foot. This puts unnecessary stress on the feet.
- Obese people are also more likely to develop type II diabetes which is a condition that causes a lot of foot problems. People with diabetes often don’t feel the cuts and sores that they may have on their feet, which can lead to more complicated and severe issues.
- Plantar fasciitis is another foot condition that can be caused by obesity. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot, which causes pain and stiffness while walking and climbing stairs.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Possible Reasons for Cracked Heels
Cracked skin on the heels of your feet is a common foot condition. Usually, it is caused by environmental or lifestyle factors, such as wearing shoes that have open backs, wearing shoes that rub against your heels, standing for extended periods of time, using harsh soaps, taking long, hot showers, or living in a climate that is cold or has low humidity. If your cracked heels are caused by any of these factors, you can make small changes to heal cracks and prevent new ones from forming. For example, you could choose to wear shoes with a closed back, take shorter showers, and moisturize your feet regularly. Occasionally, cracked skin on the heels could be the first sign of more serious problems, like diabetes or neuropathy. If you notice any open sores or reduced sensation in the feet, or if the cracks on your heels become deep and painful, it is recommended that you see a podiatrist for treatment as soon as possible.
Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM from Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Cracked Heels
Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.
How Do You Get Them?
Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.
Promote Healing
Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.
Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.
Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.
Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin.
Change in Diet
Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.
Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
How to Care for a Broken Toe at Home
A broken toe is a common injury. Severe cases that cause the toe to be crooked, involve the big toe, or lead to an open wound should be seen by a medical professional as soon as possible. Once a doctor has looked at your toe and prescribed a treatment plan, you can help your toe heal by following home care instructions. Rest your toe by not doing any physical activity that causes pain. It may be best to keep your foot immobile whenever possible. For the first day after your injury, ice your toe for 20 minutes every hour that you are awake, and then 2-3 times a day during the following days, but do not put ice directly on the skin. Keep your foot raised when possible to decrease swelling. If pain persists, ask your podiatrist about possible pain medications, such as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug. For more advice on how to help care for your broken toe at home, please consult with a podiatrist.
A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM from Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What to Know About a Broken Toe
Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
- Throbbing pain
- Swelling
- Bruising on the skin and toenail
- The inability to move the toe
- Toe appears crooked or disfigured
- Tingling or numbness in the toe
Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.
Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
More...
Arthritis Can Cause Pain in the Feet and Ankles
If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.
When Should My Child See a Doctor for Ingrown Toenails?
An ingrown toenail is a condition in which the corner of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin. It occurs most frequently on the big toe, and can affect both children and adults. This condition can be very painful, and may also cause redness, swelling, and tenderness around the affected nail. There are several things you can do to care for your child’s ingrown toenail at home, including soaking the affected toe in warm water and elevating the corner of the nail. However, if home care methods are ineffective, or if your child gets ingrown toenails frequently, then you should take them to a podiatrist for treatment.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM of Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.
Causes
- Bacterial infections
- Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
- Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
- Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
- Genetic predisposition
Prevention
Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.
Treatment
Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Helpful Techniques for Running Safely
Running is an excellent form of physical activity, however it can also cause injury if improper training is practiced. There are a few useful techniques you can follow to help prevent running injuries. Regularly switching between the different types of surfaces you run on can be beneficial in keeping your leg muscles strong and avoiding straining your muscles. Wearing shoes that are specific to the type of running you enjoy can also help to prevent injury. Another technique that should be followed is tracking your mileage. By tracking your mileage, you’ll be able to get a good idea of when your shoes should be switched out to avoid running in worn out footwear. For more advice on how to avoid running injuries, please speak with a podiatrist.
Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM of Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
How to Prevent Running Injuries
Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.
What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.
Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Gout Pain Can Be Managed
Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.
