A broken foot involves a crack or complete break in one or more of the bones, usually caused by a fall, a heavy impact, or repetitive stress on the foot. Pain from a fracture is often sharp and constant, and swelling or bruising may appear quickly. In some cases, the foot may look deformed, and putting weight on it can be extremely painful. A sprained foot, however, affects the ligaments that hold the bones together and occurs when the foot twists or turns awkwardly. Sprains often cause tenderness and mild to moderate swelling but without bone displacement. Because both injuries can cause similar discomfort, it is difficult to know which has occurred without proper testing. A podiatrist can evaluate the injury, order imaging studies, and provide the appropriate treatment to promote full recovery. If you have seriously injured your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact One of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Medical Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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

A hammertoe forms when a toe bends upward at one joint and downward at another, creating a curled or raised appearance that can make shoes feel tight or uncomfortable. This change often develops gradually as muscles and tendons lose their usual balance, sometimes due to genetics, arthritis, past injuries, or footwear that does not allow the toes enough room. Many people notice rubbing on the top of the toe, the formation of corns, or increasing stiffness that makes straightening the toe difficult. Walking may become uncomfortable as pressure shifts to areas that are not meant to carry extra weight. Early attention helps prevent the deformity from becoming rigid or more painful. If you see changes in toe shape, have difficulty moving a toe, or develop irritation from shoe pressure, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact One of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Medical Center. Our doctors 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 feel free to contact our offices located in New Port Richey and Spring Hill, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel pain is a common concern that can interrupt daily movement and make each step feel heavier than the last. One frequent cause is plantar fasciitis, which develops when the band of tissue along the bottom of the foot becomes irritated. Other sources include Achilles tendon strain, inflammation in the heel pad, nerve irritation, or bursitis that forms from repeated pressure. Some individuals notice discomfort after long hours on hard surfaces, while others develop pain from sudden increases in activity or shoes that lack support. Early attention helps prevent the condition from becoming chronic. Resting the foot, improving footwear, gentle stretching, and targeted care can ease symptoms and encourage healing. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact One of our podiatrists of Foot and Ankle Medical Center. Our doctors 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 feel free to contact our offices located in New Port Richey and Spring Hill, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.