A hairline fracture, or stress fracture, is a small crack or severe bruise within a bone that is common among athletes that are involved in running and jumping. People with osteoporosis are also more prone to developing hairline fractures. These injuries typically result from overuse or repetitive stress, often worsened by inadequate healing time between activities. The bones in the foot are particularly susceptible to stress fractures due to their role in absorbing impact during physical activities. Within the foot, the second and third metatarsals are frequently affected, as well as the heel, ankle bones, and navicular bone. Symptoms primarily include pain that worsens with activity and subsides with rest, swelling, tenderness, and bruising. Factors that can increase the risk of developing a stress fracture include participation in high-impact sports, certain foot structures, and weakened bones due to conditions like osteoporosis. Previous fractures, nutritional deficiencies, and improper equipment or techniques are other risk factors. Diagnosing a stress fracture often involves a physical exam and may require imaging tests like MRIs or bone scans, as X-rays might not detect fractures. If ignored, a stress fracture can worsen into a complete break. If you are experiencing foot pain during exercise, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.
Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Michael Schwartzman, DPM from Illinois and Indiana . 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 West Chicago, ILand Whiting, IN. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Plantar fasciitis, or inflammation of the plantar fascia, often leads to heel pain. This condition affects approximately 10 percent of the population at some point, with a higher prevalence in women and individuals between 40 and 60 years old. The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that runs from the heel to the toes. It supports the foot's arch and absorbs shock. Plantar fasciitis is considered an overuse injury. It is caused by standing for long periods, engaging in high-impact sports, or wearing poorly supportive shoes. These actions can cause microtears in the tissue, resulting in inflammation and pain. Key treatment strategies include resting the feet, avoiding activities that contribute to the pain, and taking pain relievers. Stretching exercises for the calf muscles and plantar fascia, often recommended by a podiatrist, can enhance recovery by improving strength and flexibility. Custom orthotic inserts may also provide additional support and comfort. If you are experiencing heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Michael Schwartzman, DPM from Illinois and Indiana . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
Excessive running
Having high arches in your feet
Other foot issues such as flat feet
Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
Being on your feet very often
There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.
Prevention
Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
Maintain a healthy weight
If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain
There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in West Chicago, ILand Whiting, IN. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Sesamoiditis is an inflammation of the sesamoid bones, which are two small bones embedded in the tendons beneath the big toe joint. These bones help to absorb the weight placed on the ball of the foot and assist with movement. Sesamoiditis occurs when these bones are subjected to excessive stress or repetitive pressure, often seen in activities like running, dancing, or wearing high-heeled shoes. Athletes, dancers, and individuals with high foot arches are particularly prone to sesamoiditis. Symptoms include pain in the ball of the foot, swelling, and difficulty bending the big toe. The pain typically worsens with activity and improves with rest. Preventing sesamoiditis involves wearing properly fitting, supportive shoes, avoiding high heels, and using orthotic inserts to distribute pressure evenly across the foot. Diagnosis is typically made through a physical examination and imaging tests such as X-rays. Treatment options include rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and cushioning pads to alleviate pressure. In severe cases, a podiatrist may recommend a period of immobilization or even surgery. Complications from untreated sesamoiditis can include chronic pain and difficulty with movement. If you have pain in this area of your foot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and an effective treatment plan.
Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Michael Schwartzman, DPM of Illinois and Indiana . Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.
Sesamoiditis
Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.
Causes of Sesamoiditis
Sudden increase in activity
Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible
Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in West Chicago, ILand Whiting, IN. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
A hairline fracture, or stress fracture, is a small crack or severe bruise within a bone that is common among athletes that are involved in running and jumping. People with osteoporosis are also more prone to developing hairline fractures. These injuries typically result from overuse or repetitive stress, often worsened by inadequate healing time between activities. The bones in the foot are particularly susceptible to stress fractures due to their role in absorbing impact during physical activities. Within the foot, the second and third metatarsals are frequently affected, as well as the heel, ankle bones, and navicular bone. Symptoms primarily include pain that worsens with activity and subsides with rest, swelling, tenderness, and bruising. Factors that can increase the risk of developing a stress fracture include participation in high-impact sports, certain foot structures, and weakened bones due to conditions like osteoporosis. Previous fractures, nutritional deficiencies, and improper equipment or techniques are other risk factors. Diagnosing a stress fracture often involves a physical exam and may require imaging tests like MRIs or bone scans, as X-rays might not detect fractures. If ignored, a stress fracture can worsen into a complete break. If you are experiencing foot pain during exercise, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.
Sesamoiditis is an inflammation of the sesamoid bones, which are two small bones embedded in the tendons beneath the big toe joint. These bones help to absorb the weight placed on the ball of the foot and assist with movement. Sesamoiditis occurs when these bones are subjected to excessive stress or repetitive pressure, often seen in activities like running, dancing, or wearing high-heeled shoes. Athletes, dancers, and individuals with high foot arches are particularly prone to sesamoiditis. Symptoms include pain in the ball of the foot, swelling, and difficulty bending the big toe. The pain typically worsens with activity and improves with rest. Preventing sesamoiditis involves wearing properly fitting, supportive shoes, avoiding high heels, and using orthotic inserts to distribute pressure evenly across the foot. Diagnosis is typically made through a physical examination and imaging tests such as X-rays. Treatment options include rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and cushioning pads to alleviate pressure. In severe cases, a podiatrist may recommend a period of immobilization or even surgery. Complications from untreated sesamoiditis can include chronic pain and difficulty with movement. If you have pain in this area of your foot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and an effective treatment plan.