When runners develop stress fractures, they typically occur in the lower fibula and parts of the tibia. Stress fractures are a type of bone injury that occurs as a result of repetitive mechanical stress. Activities such as jumping and running can result in a stress fracture. If you are looking to treat your stress fracture, you should start by ceasing any high-impact activities and start to participate in cross-training activities. Cross-training is an exercise regimen that incorporates several modes of training to avoid overuse injuries. People who experience pain from walking with a stress fracture should look toward wearing a cast, boot, or crutches. Most athletes who suffer from stress fractures may gradually return to running within six to eight weeks. Training schedules, diet, and menstrual history are all factors that may increase your risk of developing a stress fracture.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. 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 feel free to contact our offices located in Port St. Lucie, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete’s foot is a common foot condition that many people experience. It typically affects the area between the toes in addition to the bottom of the feet. There are several symptoms that are associated with this ailment. These may include redness, dry areas in the affected portions of skin, or extreme itchiness. This contagious fungal infection is generally found in public places, which may include community pools, shower room floors, and surrounding areas. Patients who have certain existing medical conditions may have an increased risk of getting athlete’s foot. These include a weak immune system, eczema, or certain allergies. Mild relief can be found while using an anti-fungal spray. For stubborn and severe cases of athlete’s foot, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can properly treat your condition.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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

The medical condition known as hammertoe typically affects the second toe. It is defined as a bone deformity that causes the toe to bend in a downward position. The affected joint can become stiff and enlarge if it should rub against the shoes. A common reason why hammertoe would develop can include wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. The tendons in the toe may become shortened as a result of wearing these types of shoes, and the patient may experience muscle balance. Mild relief may be found when stretching exercises are frequently performed. This is beneficial in lengthening the tendons that may be tight. Some patients find it can help to wear orthotics, which aid in supporting the arch. If you have developed hammertoe, it is advised that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can guide you in beginning the correct treatment.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Port St. Lucie, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Research has indicated that cracked heels affect more than fifty percent of the world's population. This condition may be a result of wearing shoes that have an open back, or from standing for long periods of time throughout the day. The skin may lose its elasticity, and can gradually develop deep cracks, which are also known as fissures. It may be beneficial to stretch the Achilles tendon before the day begins. This may help to ease the amount of weight the heels absorb as walking occurs. Patients may find relief when their feet are washed and thoroughly dried, followed by applying a good moisturizer. Additionally, cracked heels may be prevented when shoes are worn that offer adequate support for the heels. If you have any questions about effective remedies for this condition, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Port St. Lucie, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The majority of impact the body feels while running is absorbed by the feet. Many people who enjoy running stretch before and after a run is completed, and research has shown it is just as important to perform stretching techniques for the feet. There are a variety of stretches that can be practiced which may help in preventing unwanted foot conditions from developing. These can include stretching the Achilles tendon which is done by standing on a step, and gently lowering one heel at a time. Toe stretches are performed by grabbing a towel with your toes while standing, and this helps to strengthen the entire foot. The sole of the foot can feel better when the plantar fascia is stretched by rolling the foot on a tennis ball. For additional information about the importance of stretching your feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

• Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
• Similar to the previous one, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
• Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
• Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising and ice and rest the foot. It is advised to then see a podiatrist for help.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Port St. Lucie, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.