Items filtered by date: September 2023

A foot fracture, also known as a broken foot, can vary in severity, from small hairline cracks to complete bone breaks. The human foot is a complex structure comprising 26 bones, making it susceptible to a variety of fracture types. Foot fractures often result from traumatic incidents, such as falls, sports injuries, or accidents. They can also occur due to repetitive stress on the foot over time, especially in athletes or individuals engaged in high-impact activities. Common symptoms of a foot fracture include pain, swelling, and bruising, and it can also be difficult to walk. A diagnosis typically involves physical examination, X-rays, or other imaging tests to determine the type and extent of the fracture. Treatment options can vary depending on the fracture's severity and location. Mild fractures may heal with rest, immobilization, and pain management. Conversely,  more severe cases may require casting, surgery, or other interventions to ensure proper healing that can restore normal foot function. In conclusion, a foot fracture is a break in one or more of the foot's many bones, often resulting from trauma or repetitive stress. If you have broken your foot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can provide you with an accurate diagnosis and offer the treatment plan that is right for you.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact David A. Edmonds, DPM from Advanced Podiatry Associates. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Northampton and Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Many women wear high heels, which can lead to numbness in the toes. This common symptom is often overlooked, but it is essential to understand the potential consequences of wearing high-heeled shoes. The primary cause of toe numbness from wearing high heels is the pressure placed on the ball of the foot. As you elevate your heel, your body's weight shifts forward, concentrating the load on a small area. This excess force can compress nerves and blood vessels, and the resulting reduction in blood flow to the front of the foot can cause toes to go numb. Over time, this restricted blood flow can lead to numbness and tingling sensations, making each step more troublesome. Additionally, the unnatural arch in high heels can strain the muscles and ligaments, which adds to the problem. To minimize numbness in the toes, opt for lower heel heights, wear cushioned insoles, and take regular breaks from wearing high heels. If you are experiencing numbness in the toes and feet, which may be the result of wearing high heels, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact David A. Edmonds, DPM from Advanced Podiatry Associates. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Northampton and Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

When considering your workout routine, it is easy to overlook your feet and ankles. These often neglected body parts bear your body weight and support nearly all your movements. The foot and ankle complex is a marvel of anatomy, with 26 bones, numerous muscles, and countless nerve endings. During activities such as running and jumping, the foot and ankle endure significant forces, sometimes exceeding your body weight by several times. Moreover, they manage forces in multiple directions, contributing to their intricate biomechanics. Stretching and strengthening the foot and ankle complex is vital for overall physical health and injury prevention, as it can reduce the shockwave of force traveling into the shins, knees, and beyond. Neglecting this area can lead to common injuries. Stretching is also vital to maintain balance. An easy exercise to do for balance training consists of standing on one leg for 30 seconds, then repeat on the other side. Alternate between the two legs for three rounds. Once you can complete that with ease, repeat the progression on a soft surface such as a pillow. For advanced balance training, repeat the sequence above and close your eyes. If you would like to know more about various foot exercises you can do for balance, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide you with the knowledge you are seeking.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact David A. Edmonds, DPM from Advanced Podiatry Associates. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctor to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Northampton and Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Custom foot orthotics are designed to meet unique structural and biomechanical needs, but they often require a break-in period. This means getting used to them gradually. The adjustment period varies for each person as your body has adapted to moving a certain way over the years. When you first wear them, custom orthotics might feel unusual, like standing on a hard ball with pressure on your arches. Some may feel great right away, like walking on clouds. However, it is crucial to break them in properly. Some tips to get used to orthotics include starting off slowly and wearing them for a few hours at first and then increasing wear time by one or two hours daily over a week. Other tips include reducing wear time if you experience discomfort, wearing them in shoes with the appropriate width and depth, and waiting until they are entirely broken in before engaging in physical activity. Adjustments can possibly be made if discomfort persists. If you are interested in learning more about whether you are a good candidate for orthotics and how to adjust to them, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss this option.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact David A. Edmonds, DPM from Advanced Podiatry Associates. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Northampton and Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.