Stress fractures are small cracks in bone that develop when repeated force exceeds the bone’s ability to repair itself. In the foot, certain bones are more commonly affected because they bear body weight with every step. The second and third metatarsals, which are the long bones that connect the toes to the midfoot, are frequent sites of stress fractures. The heel bone can also develop stress fractures due to constant impact from walking and playing sports. Another high-risk area is the navicular bone near the top of the midfoot, which plays a key role in maintaining the arch. Symptoms of stress fractures include pinpoint tenderness, deep aching pain, swelling, and discomfort that worsens with activity. A podiatrist can evaluate gait mechanics and use advanced imaging to confirm the diagnosis. If you have symptoms of stress fractures in the feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Ahmed Shoukry, DPM from The Foot Clinic. 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 contact our office located in Euless, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, most commonly affecting the big toe. It mostly affects men because they tend to have higher uric acid levels throughout adulthood, while women are partly protected by estrogen until menopause. After menopause, women can also develop gout as uric acid levels rise. Symptoms include sudden intense joint pain, redness, swelling, warmth, and tenderness. Risk factors include obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, certain medications, and diets high in red meat or alcohol. A podiatrist can diagnose gout, relieve pain, and recommend treatment to prevent future attacks. If you have pain in your big toe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Ahmed Shoukry, DPM from The Foot Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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