A broken heel bone, or calcaneus fracture, is a serious foot injury that often results from high-impact trauma, such as falling from a height or being in a car accident. In some cases, athletes who engage in repetitive stress, like long-distance running, may develop a stress fracture in the heel. Signs of a broken heel bone include intense heel pain, swelling, bruising, and an inability to walk. A podiatrist will perform a thorough exam, which may include imaging tests, to determine the severity of the fracture. If the bone fragments remain in proper position, casting and immobilization may be sufficient. However, when the bone is significantly displaced or if the fracture is open, surgery may be necessary. This typically involves repositioning the bone and securing it with plates and screws. In the most severe cases, a fusion between the heel and ankle bones may be required to stabilize the foot. If you have extreme heel pain and fear it may be broken, it is suggested that you make an immediate appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Edward Sharrer, DPM of Premier Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our podiatrist 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 office located in North Little Rock, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A broken toe can be painful and may limit movement in the foot or ankle, especially if left untreated. While some toe fractures may seem minor, many require medical attention to prevent complications. Common signs include swelling, bruising, pain when walking, and changes in toe alignment. A podiatrist can evaluate the broken toe through a physical exam and imaging tests to determine the type of fracture and what treatment is needed. Minor breaks may be stabilized with buddy taping, which involves taping the broken toe to a neighboring one. More severe fractures, such as displaced or complex breaks, might require a cast or walking boot to keep the toe straight during healing. In some cases, surgery is required to reposition the bones or insert pins that help maintain proper alignment. Healing can take up to two months, and returning to activity too soon can increase the risk of reinjury. A podiatrist can monitor the healing process and address complications, such as long-term pain or joint damage. If you have broken a toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Edward Sharrer, DPM from Premier Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our podiatrist will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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

Running outdoors and on a treadmill each place different demands on the feet, toes, and ankles. Treadmill running offers a flat, cushioned surface that may reduce impact and be easier on the joints, but it can also limit the engagement of stabilizing muscles in the ankles and feet. Because the treadmill belt assists forward movement, runners may experience shorter strides and reduced ankle flexing movement. In contrast, outdoor running requires the body to adapt to uneven terrain, which strengthens the smaller muscles in the feet and ankles, but may also increase the risk of sprains, stress fractures, and tendon strain. Foot positioning, stride length, and ankle alignment can vary significantly depending on the running surface, and these differences can affect the arches, toes, and heel strike. Plus, improper footwear or technique in either setting can lead to pain or injury over time. A podiatrist can evaluate foot mechanics, identify imbalances, and recommend running strategies or footwear to help prevent injuries for either running surface. If you have foot problems related to running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Edward Sharrer, DPM of Premier Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our podiatrist will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

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

A foot blister is a small, fluid-filled sac that forms on the skin due to irritation or damage. It is often caused by friction, which occurs when shoes or socks repeatedly rub against the skin. Heat and moisture can also contribute to blister formation, especially in warm environments where excessive sweating softens the skin. Allergic reactions to certain materials in footwear or socks may trigger blisters as well. Some medical conditions, such as diabetes, eczema, or infections, can make individuals more prone to developing blisters. Symptoms include redness, swelling, tenderness, and a sensation of warmth surrounding the affected area. Blisters can become infected and may cause difficulty in completing daily activities. If you have a blister anywhere on your foot, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who offers safe and sterile treatment before it becomes infected.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Edward Sharrer, DPM of Premier Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our podiatrist can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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