A foot stress fracture is a small crack or break in a bone caused by repetitive force or overuse. This type of fracture often occurs in athletes, particularly runners, and people who engage in high-impact activities. The primary cause of a stress fracture is the accumulation of stress on the bone leading to tiny cracks. Common symptoms include localized pain, swelling, and tenderness, particularly during activity or when pressure is applied to the affected area. Finding relief from a stress fracture typically involves rest, avoiding weight-bearing activities, and elevating the foot to reduce swelling. A podiatrist may recommend wearing a walking boot or using crutches to minimize stress on the foot. If you have developed a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and effectively treat a foot stress fracture.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Charles Oehrlein, DPM from Hoover Foot Care. Our practitioner 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 office located in Hoover, Oneonta, and Munford, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Pregnancy brings many changes to the body, and the feet are no exception. As the body undergoes hormonal shifts, the ligaments in the feet become looser, which can alter foot structure and cause the arches to flatten. This leads to increased foot length and width, which may require a change in shoe size. Swelling, or edema, is another common issue, as the body retains more fluid during pregnancy, causing the feet and ankles to become swollen, particularly at the end of the day. This can result in discomfort and difficulty walking. Additionally, the extra weight gained during pregnancy places added pressure on the feet, contributing to heel pain and even conditions like plantar fasciitis. If you have foot pain during your pregnancy, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief and management solutions.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Charles Oehrlein, DPM from Hoover Foot Care. Our practitioner will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Hoover, Oneonta, and Munford, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

As people age, the feet undergo changes that can lead to discomfort and mobility challenges. Years of wear and tear, in addition to conditions such as arthritis or diabetes, can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness. The natural thinning of the fat pads that cushion the feet may increase foot pain when walking and standing. Furthermore, reduced bone density, particularly seen in post-menopausal women, can increase the risk of stress fractures. Joint inflammation and nerve damage, often associated with aging, can also affect balance and increase the likelihood of falls. Poor circulation, common in older adults, can delay healing and make the feet more susceptible to injuries or infections. A podiatrist can assess the type of foot pain you have and recommend custom orthotics, certain medication to relieve pain, or ways to enhance mobility. If you are a senior suffering from foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Charles Oehrlein, DPM from Hoover Foot Care. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Hoover, Oneonta, and Munford, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.