A foot stress fracture is a small crack in a bone that develops due to repetitive stress rather than a sudden injury. It commonly occurs in athletes, especially runners, and individuals who engage in high-impact activities. Causes include overuse, sudden increases in physical activity, and inadequate rest between workouts. Symptoms often begin with mild discomfort that worsens with weight-bearing activities, progressing to persistent pain, swelling, and tenderness in the affected area. Risk factors include footwear that lacks adequate support and cushioning, poor biomechanics, and conditions like osteoporosis that weaken bones. Individuals with a history of stress fractures or nutritional deficiencies may also be more susceptible. If you have symptoms of a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat this condition.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Suncoast Podiatry Associates. Our doctors 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 Ocala, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Swollen feet are a common concern during pregnancy, often caused by increased fluid retention and pressure on the veins from the growing uterus. Hormonal changes can also contribute to swelling by affecting circulation. To reduce discomfort, elevating the feet whenever possible helps improve blood flow and decrease fluid buildup. Gentle exercises such as walking or ankle rotations encourage circulation and prevent stiffness. Wearing comfortable, supportive shoes reduces strain on the feet, while compression socks can help minimize swelling. Additionally, staying hydrated and reducing salt intake can prevent excess fluid retention. Soaking the feet in cool water provides relief and soothes discomfort. Swelling is usually harmless, but sudden or severe swelling should be discussed with a podiatrist to rule out any underlying concerns related to pregnancy. If you have developed problematic foot conditions during your pregnancy, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief remedies.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with one of our podiatrists from Suncoast Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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

Pain on the side of the foot, known as lateral foot pain, can make simply walking or standing difficult. Causes of lateral foot pain include stress fractures, cuboid syndrome, peroneal tendonitis, arthritis, a twisted ankle, and tarsal coalition. Stress fractures develop from repetitive impact, cuboid syndrome occurs when the cuboid bone is injured or dislocated, and peroneal tendonitis results from inflammation of the tendons along the outer ankle. Arthritis can cause joint pain and stiffness, and a twisted ankle may stretch or tear ligaments. Tarsal coalition, which is a congenital condition, can lead to foot pain and limited mobility. Symptoms include sharp or aching pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. Depending on the cause, a podiatrist may recommend rest, immobilization, custom orthotics, or in some cases, surgery, to relieve pain and restore foot function. Ignoring persistent foot pain can lead to further complications, so early evaluation is important. If you have pain on the side of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Suncoast Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Foot drop occurs when patients find it difficult to lift the front portion of their foot, resulting in dragging or slapping of the foot while walking. Known as steppage gait, this walking pattern involves raising the leg higher than usual to prevent the toes from catching on the ground. Foot drop may affect one or both feet, causing sensations of tingling, numbness, or weakness in the ankle, toes, or top of the foot. Several conditions can cause foot drop, including peripheral neuropathy, muscular dystrophy, nerve injury, diabetes, and neurological issues like stroke or multiple sclerosis. A podiatrist can assess symptoms through a physical examination, checking for muscle weakness or loss of function, and by performing nerve conduction studies, ultrasounds, or imaging tests to rule out other causes. Treatment of foot drop often involves nerve stimulation, or wearing braces or orthotics to support proper foot positioning. In some cases, surgery may be needed to repair nerve damage or reposition tendons. If you have trouble lifting your feet when walking, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Suncoast Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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