When an individual suffers a stress fracture, they essentially have developed tiny cracks in the bone, often due to repetitive or prolonged pressure. There are a number of different symptoms that are characteristic of a stress fracture. Namely, if you suffer from a stress fracture, you may develop bruising on the skin in the affected area. Typically, this might involve discoloration of some sort around the skin. The skin, for example, may appear to have a red, blue, or purple tint. Additionally, stress fractures may create poignant, localized pain at the site of the fracture. This pain can be worse when putting weight on the feet. Many individuals suffer from stress fractures—if you are one of them, consult with a podiatrist today.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Scott Samera, DPM from Samera / Foot + Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                  
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

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

The feet can feel tired and achy while standing for the majority of the work day. Practicing good foot care may help to reduce aches and pains, and this can be accomplished by wearing shoes that fit properly. Wearing compression socks may be beneficial in providing comfort to the feet and ankles. Research has shown that specific work shoes can provide good arch support, which may help reduce weakness in the feet and ankles. It is beneficial to buy appropriate work shoes at the end of the day when the feet are at their largest. Many people feel better when they can stretch or walk for short periods during the day, and this can help to improve circulation. If the profession allows it, elevating the feet can help to reduce pressure on the ankles, and it often feels good when the foot is rolled on a tennis ball. It is important to stand on a stress mat as this is generally effective in diminishing existing foot pain. If you would like additional information about how to care for your feet while working, please consult with a podiatrist.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Scott Samera, DPM from Samera / Foot + Ankle. 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 office located in Lake City and Branford, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

If your child participates in sporting activities and complains of heel pain, it may be indicative of Sever’s disease. The heel plate becomes inflamed which may occur due to high-impact activities. Swelling and pain often accompany Sever’s disease, and it can develop in children and young teenagers. Children who develop this ailment may be affected psychologically. This may be noticeable if the child declines participation in specific activities because of chronic heel pain. Additionally, their athletic ability may suffer a setback in their chosen sport as a result of being omitted from participation. Sever’s disease is treated by stopping the activity that caused the pain, followed by performing specific stretches that can help to provide mild relief. If your child has heel pain, it is strongly urged that you contact a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose Sever’s disease and offer extended treatment options.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Scott Samera, DPM from Samera / Foot + Ankle. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lake City and Branford, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

Blisters are generally caused by excess friction that can come from wearing socks and shoes that do not fit correctly. The tissues and blood vessels can become damaged, and may result in a blister. It is defined as a small area that is filled with protective liquid, and forms over the damaged skin. It is the body’s natural healing process that allows new skin to form underneath the blister. It is a common ailment among runners, and a protective covering may have to be worn over it while running. When the skin has formed, the blister will gradually drain, as it is not needed any longer. A red spot where the blister forms often appears first, and this can be a warning sign to take proper precautions to protect the feet. Blisters may develop for other reasons, including having an allergic reaction, or possibly from a skin condition such as eczema or psoriasis. If you frequently get blisters on your feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can offer you correct treatment options, and discuss preventive methods with you.

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 Scott Samera, DPM of Samera / Foot + Ankle. Our doctor 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 Lake City and Branford, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Flat feet is a condition that occurs in an individual when they do not exhibit any natural arch in their feet. This is to say that their entire foot rests completely against the floor. It is true that many cases of flat feet are not particularly problematic. For example, many cases rarely cause other complications or preclude you from engaging in physical activities. However, some cases of flat feet can cause the individual pain. If you find that you are prone to foot or ankle injuries, you are having difficulty walking, or only one foot has lost its natural arch, it might be a good idea to consult a podiatrist. This foot specialist will help you identify and address the problem with your flat feet. Don’t take any chances with the health of your feet–visit a podiatrist today.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Scott Samera, DPM from Samera / Foot + Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

There are some people who refer to bunions as a bone disorder. This foot condition is the result of a foot structure abnormality, and can be caused by genetic factors. Additionally, patients who choose to wear shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in may notice a bunion is developing. It is defined as a bony protrusion on the side of the big toe, and in severe cases, may be large enough to shift the other toes toward each other. There may be existing medical conditions that may lead to getting a bunion. These can include having a low arch, rheumatoid arthritis, or possibly from having endured a foot injury. Common symptoms that affect many people with bunions can consist of redness, numbness, and there may be a burning sensation in the affected joint.  Mild relief may come from wearing shoes that are larger which can accommodate the protrusion, and it may help to place a protective covering over the bunion. If you have a bunion, it is advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer you effective treatment options.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Scott Samera, DPM of Samera / Foot + Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lake City and Branford, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Big toe arthritis is a form of osteoarthritis, and it causes the joints of the big toe to become inflamed. This usually affects the first metatarsophalangeal, or MTP joint. This condition can cause pain, numbness, and difficulty in walking. Risk factors can include being older, female, obese, and having muscle weakness or joint injuries. This affliction is often diagnosed with an X-ray to see the amount of space between the joints. Less spacing leads to more severe arthritis. The extent of pain, stiffness, and movement of the big toe are also used to gauge the severity of this condition. While one can try physical therapy, rigid orthotics, and cortisone injections to relieve pain, the most effective long-term treatment for this condition is surgery. Surgical treatments for big toe arthritis include a cheilectomy, which involves removing a portion of the bone within the big toe, or fusing the bones in the big toe, which is referred to as arthrodesis. If you suffer from big toe arthritis and have tried other remedies with little or no relief, please consult with a podiatrist to see if you are a candidate for one of these surgeries.

In certain cases, in which the patient suffers from extreme pain or damage in a joint, joint replacement surgery may be deemed useful. If you have constant pain in a foot joint, consult with Scott Samera, DPM from Samera / Foot + Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Joint Replacement Surgery?

Over time, joints wear down; this can be exacerbated by diseases and conditions. Joint replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty, is when a damaged joint is surgically removed and replaced with a prosthesis. Prostheses, which can be made of ceramic, plastic, or metal, act as joints in lieu of an actual joint. One of the most prevalent causes for joint replacement is arthritis.

Arthritis in the Foot

Arthritis can occur in any joint in the body, including in the feet. Common types of arthritis in the foot are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. The big toe is usually where arthritis occurs in the foot; this is known as hallux rigidus.

Joint Replacement Surgery in the Foot

The most common form of joint replacement in the foot is a first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint placement. MTP joint replacement surgery is designed to treat hallux rigidus. Surgery is not intensive, and recovery occurs within one to two months after the procedure has been done. Overall, joint replacement surgery is a safe and effective way to treat pain in the joint of the foot.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lake City and Branford, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Running is a cherished form of exercise that many people across the country engage in every day. However, if a runner is not careful, they may be at risk of developing certain foot conditions. For example, running can increase the risk of developing cracked heels. Also known as heel fissures, cracked heels occur when the skin on the back of the heel becomes significantly dry and hardened. The skin may even crack due to the lack of moisture. Running can lead to cracked heels because as an individual is running, they are repeatedly hitting their heels on hard surfaces. This pounding of the heel on the ground can lead to cracked heels. Although cracked heels may not always be a serious condition in runners, they can be unsightly and uncomfortable. If you are a runner, you may protect yourself from developing this condition by removing dead skin cells from your feet with a pumice stone. You might also choose to apply a heavy moisturizer to the heels to keep them from cracking. Contact a podiatrist for more tips and tricks about preventing cracked heels in runners.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Scott Samera, DPM from Samera / Foot + Ankle. 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 Lake City and Branford, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.