A hairline fracture is another name for a stress fracture. It often happens in the foot and generally affects the second metatarsal bone. The majority of stress fractures occur from overuse, and are a common injury among people who frequently participate in running and jumping activities. Some people can have this type of injury from an accident, or if something heavy drops on the foot. The pain can be worse while walking or standing, and treatment starts by resting and elevating the affected foot. Many patients have an X-ray or other imaging test taken, which is an effective method for determining the severity of the fracture. A cast or a walking boot may be prescribed to stabilize the foot as the healing process occurs. People who have flat feet or an abnormal foot structure may be more prone to developing stress fractures, and it is beneficial to wear shoes that fit properly that can protect the feet. Complete healing takes approximately four weeks, and running can be gradually increased as the foot becomes stronger. If you have incurred a stress fracture, please consult a podiatrist who can offer you treatment options that are best for you.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Stephen Boykins, DPM from SoCal Podiatry, P.C.. 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 Downey and Moreno Valley, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cracked heels are a condition that occurs when the heels of the feet do not receive sufficient moisture. As a result, the skin on the heels can grow hard and develop cracks or fissures. There are many treatments that your podiatrist might recommend to treat your cracked heels, which largely depends on your case. One potential remedy that your medical professional might suggest to treat your cracked heels is known as petroleum jelly. This substance will be able to lock moisture into the damaged skin on the cracked heels. The substance is gelatinous in texture and can be used on the skin. One might apply petroleum jelly to the feet by rubbing the jelly onto the feet at night and then wearing socks over the feet to lock in the moisture. If you are unsatisfied with the condition of your feet, contact a podiatrist today. 

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Stephen Boykins, DPM from SoCal Podiatry, P.C.. 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 Downey and Moreno Valley, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The heel bone, or calcaneus, is the largest of the 26 bones in the foot. Too much stress on the heel, such as repeatedly pounding the feet on hard surfaces, can cause soreness. The most common cause of heel pain is plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the band of tissue that runs from the toes to the heel along the sole of the foot. Other sources of heel pain are wearing shoes that lack ample cushioning and shock absorption, running too far, and landing awkwardly on the feet. Tightness in the Achilles tendon, as well as biomechanical difficulties like flat feet and overpronation can also be causes of heel pain. Additional causes of heel pain include heel spurs, arthritis, and stress fractures. Depending on the cause, symptoms include pain, tenderness, swelling, numbness, and stiffness. If you are experiencing regular bouts of heel pain, it is a good idea to consult a podiatrist for an examination, a diagnosis, and an appropriate course of treatment. 

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Stephen Boykins, DPM of SoCal Podiatry, P.C.. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Downey and Moreno Valley, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Research has shown that approximately half of the working population spends their day standing. This can include professions such as restaurant employees, retail workers, and people who are employed in the medical profession. Foot pain is a common ailment that people have who work on their feet for the majority of the day. This may be a result of the feet absorbing the weight of the body, and pain can be targeted in the heels. Plantar fasciitis and heel spurs are common foot conditions that can happen from standing, and discomfort may often radiate to the entire foot. There are effective preventive methods that can be implemented which may help to lessen heel pain. These can consist of standing on a stress mat provided by the employer and wearing shoes that have additional cushioning in the heel. Having foot pain can compromise the ability to perform to the best of one’s ability. If this applies to you, it is strongly suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can help you to alleviate the pain, and guide you toward choosing the best shoes to wear while working.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Stephen Boykins, DPM from SoCal Podiatry, P.C.. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

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