A foot stress fracture is a small crack in a bone, typically resulting from repetitive force or overuse. This injury commonly occurs in athletes or individuals who suddenly increase their physical activity without adequate preparation. Factors contributing to stress fractures include wearing improper footwear, inadequate training techniques, and sudden changes in exercise intensity. Symptoms often involve localized pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest. To prevent foot stress fractures, it is essential to gradually increase activity levels, choose supportive footwear, and incorporate proper warm-up and stretching routines. Strengthening exercises for the foot and lower leg can also help build resilience. If you have sustained a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can treat this condition.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Dr. Steven Shlonsky from Louisville, Kentucky. Dr. Shlonsky 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 Louisville, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Sesamoiditis is an irritation of the two sesamoid bones that are located beneath the first metatarsal head of the foot. It leads to pain that can be particularly bothersome during activities like walking or running. These tiny bones, each about the size of a kernel of corn, play a significant role in foot movement. They can become painful due to trauma, foot structure changes, or repetitive stress. Sesamoiditis is often seen in dancers, runners, and those who frequently wear high heels. Symptoms can include localized pain beneath the big toe, swelling, and tenderness that worsens with pressure. Diagnosis typically involves a clinical evaluation by a podiatrist, sometimes supported by imaging tests to rule out fractures or other conditions. Treatment focuses on reducing pressure on the sesamoids through footwear modifications, including supportive shoes and custom orthotics. If you have pain under the big toe, it may be related to the sesamoid bones, and it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Dr. Steven Shlonsky of Louisville, Kentucky. Dr. Shlonsky will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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

Recovering from foot surgery requires careful preparation to ensure a smooth healing process. Start by stocking up on essential groceries and easy-to-prepare meals to avoid frequent trips to the store. Having everything you need within reach will make daily life more manageable while you are less mobile. Additionally, it is important to move furniture and obstacles out of your path to create a clear, and safe environment. This prevents potential trips and falls that could hinder your recovery. Keep frequently used items within easy reach and set up a comfortable resting area where you can elevate your foot to reduce swelling. By planning ahead and creating a supportive environment, you can focus on healing and minimize the risk of complications during your recovery. If you have had any type of foot surgery, it is suggested that you schedule regular appointments with your podiatrist who can guide you on specific recovery methods for your type of surgery.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Dr. Steven Shlonsky of Louisville, Kentucky. Dr. Shlonsky will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Heel pad syndrome is a painful condition affecting the heel's fatty tissue, leading to discomfort and difficulty walking. This syndrome occurs when the heel's fat pad, which acts as a shock absorber, deteriorates or thins out, often due to excessive stress or injury. The condition can result from aging, repetitive high-impact activities like running or jumping, prolonged standing, or being overweight. Heel pad syndrome can affect anyone but is more common among athletes, older adults, and individuals with occupations requiring extended periods of time on their feet. Symptoms typically include a deep, bruised feeling in the heel, particularly noticeable during weight-bearing activities. This pain can be sharp or aching, worsening with activity and improving with rest. If you have painful heels, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who may prescribe orthotics, heel cups, specific exercises, and anti-inflammatory medication.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Dr. Steven Shlonsky of Louisville, Kentucky. Dr. Shlonsky 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 Louisville, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.