Foot stress fractures develop when repeated pressure on the bones of the feet builds faster than the body can recover. Risk increases with a sudden increase in activity, such as adding distance, speed, or training days too quickly. Moving from softer ground to harder surfaces raises impact through the toes, midfoot, and heel. Foot problems like bunions or blisters can change how weight is placed, forcing one bone to absorb extra stress. Shoes lacking adequate support, poor fit, stiffness, or heavy wear increase strain, especially during long-term walking or standing. Flip-flops can worsen this effect. Sports that involve running, jumping, or quick direction changes raise the risk of stress fractures, but extended walking on uneven ground can also lead to problems. Bone weakness and a prior stress fracture further increase risk. For help with foot problems, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Carrie Frame, DPM from West Virginia Foot & Ankle. 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 contact our office located in Charleston, WV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A broken toe is a common injury that can result from trauma, such as stubbing, dropping a heavy object on the foot, or sports related accidents. The toe may look swollen, bruised, or misaligned, and, in severe cases, it may appear deformed or out of place. It often feels painful, tender, or throbbing, particularly while walking, standing, or applying pressure. Additional symptoms can include difficulty in moving the toe, stiffness, or a cracking sensation at the time of injury. A podiatrist can begin by performing a thorough examination, assessing the degree of injury, and ordering imaging, such as X-rays, to confirm the break and identify any displacement. Treatment may involve buddy taping, protective footwear, pain management, or in more severe cases, surgical intervention to properly realign the bones. Because early professional care promotes healing, prevents complications, and restores mobility, it is suggested that you  promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment solutions.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Carrie Frame, DPM from West Virginia Foot & Ankle. Our doctor 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 Charleston, WV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cold feet are a common concern and may occur when blood flow or nerve function is affected. Exposure to cold temperatures can cause blood vessels to narrow, reducing warmth in the feet. Stress may also trigger vascular changes that limit circulation and contribute to a cold sensation. Poor circulation from vascular conditions can prevent enough warm blood from reaching the feet, leading to persistent coldness and discomfort. Additionally, nerve disorders may interfere with normal temperature sensation, making feet feel cold even when they are warm to the touch. Symptoms may include numbness, tingling, color changes, or an aching feeling in the feet and toes. A podiatrist can help by evaluating circulation, nerve health, and foot structure to identify the underlying cause. If your cold feet are accompanied by pain or numbness, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer effective relief tips.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Carrie Frame, DPM from West Virginia Foot & Ankle. 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 office located in Charleston, WV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A Pott’s fracture is a type of ankle fracture that can occur after a forceful twisting injury, especially when the foot turns inward while pointing downward. This movement is common among basketball and volleyball players. While an ankle sprain may be involved, the same force can also cause a fracture around the ankle along with the ligament damage. Because the outer side of the ankle is less stable, a Potts fracture may be overlooked and mistaken for a simple sprain. Symptoms include ongoing ankle pain, swelling, bruising, and trouble putting weight on the foot. Proper evaluation is important to identify whether a fracture is present. A podiatrist can examine the ankle, order imaging, and determine the best course of care to support healing and restore stability. If you are experiencing such ankle pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

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