Many people are aware when they have fractured a bone. The pain is sudden and often happens from an injury. This may not be true with stress fractures, as it develops over time. A stress fracture is considered to be a hairline fracture and is caused by repetitive movements. This is a common injury among people who enjoy running, or frequently participating in jumping activities. For example, osteoporosis can weaken the bones, which can make it easier for stress fractures to happen. Additionally, wearing shoes that do not fit correctly can gradually weaken the foot bones, possibly leading to developing a stress fracture. Mild relief may be found if sporting activities are temporarily stopped, and a supportive boot or cast is worn until complete healing has taken place. This can be followed by implementing specific stretches that can help to strengthen the foot. If you have a stress fracture, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose and treat this foot condition.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Philip C. Caswell, DPM from Family Foot & Ankle Care. 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 office located in Sparta, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Having dry skin on the heels is common. It can lead to a foot condition that is known as cracked heels, and be quite uncomfortable. Untreated cracks in the skin can develop into fissures, which may bleed and become infected. The feet do not have oil glands, and they can dry out quicker than other parts of the body. Cracked heels can be caused by weaning shoes that have an open back, such as flip-flops or sandals. These types of shoes may put additional pressure on the heels' fat pads, and the skin may dry out. There may be existing medical conditions that can lead to developing cracked heels. These can include psoriasis, eczema, diabetes, or thyroid disorders. Mild relief may be found when the feet are frequently soaked in warm water, followed by removing any dead skin, which is referred to as exfoliating. Additionally, applying a good moisturizer may help the skin to feel soft and cause any dead skin to naturally fall off. If you have cracked heels, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer you additional treatment methods.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Philip C. Caswell, DPM from Family Foot & Ankle Care. 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 office located in Sparta, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Poor circulation can cause tingling sensations, and the feet may feel cold. This generally occurs in the feet and may happen from sitting with the legs crossed for extended periods. Poor circulation can occur from medical conditions like high blood pressure, heart disease, and obesity. It may also happen from smoking, eating unhealthy foods, or from leading a sedentary lifestyle. Blood flow may be disrupted if there is an injury to the foot, and poor circulation may develop as the wound heals. This condition may be remedied when a healthy lifestyle is chosen, including engaging in a gentle exercise routine and eating foods that are low in fat. If you have symptoms of poor circulation, it is strongly suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Philip C. Caswell, DPM of Family Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness   
• Numbness or cramping in the legs 
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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