The bones in the foot that connect the ankle to the toes are referred to as the metatarsal bones. A stress fracture can occur when one or more of these bones undergo extreme stress from frequently running or jogging. It can also happen from increasing speed and distance too quickly, and not warming up or cooling down properly before and after running. The pain that stress fractures can cause may expand over the entire foot, and it can feel better when the affected foot is rested. An X-ray is an effective method that can obtain a proper diagnosis, and this is successful in determining the severity of the stress fracture. Once this happens, proper treatment can begin. It generally takes approximately four to twelve weeks for this type of fracture to completely heal, and a special shoe may be worn, which can provide optimum support. It is important to temporarily stop the activity that caused the fracture, which will typically accelerate the healing process. If you have endured a stress fracture, please consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can determine what the best course of treatment is for you. 

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact James Pak, DPM from California. Our doctor 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 Anaheim, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An inflamed nerve found between the third and fourth toes is indicative of Morton’s neuroma. It is a benign condition, despite it causing severe pain and discomfort. This condition is often caused by wearing shoes that do not have enough room for the toes to move freely in. Women who frequently wear high heels may be afflicted with Morton’s neuroma and medical attention is often sought for pain relief. The pain comes from an irritated nerve that gradually becomes compressed, which can affect the entire foot. There may be existing medical conditions that lead to the development of Morton's neuroma. These can consist of bunions, hammertoes, or arch abnormalities. Additionally, participating in running and jumping sporting activities may put pressure on the ball of the foot, resulting in this type of neuroma. If you have pain in this area of your foot, please schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose and treat Morton’s neuroma.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact James Pak, DPM of California. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

Many people have chronic foot pain and find comfort in strengthening their feet. This is done by performing specific stretches and exercises that are simple to do. Increased foot strength can reduce the risk of injury and may improve existing foot structure. A tennis ball is an effective tool to strengthen the entire foot. An exercise using a tennis ball is simply done by rolling the foot from the toes to the heel over the tennis ball or similar object. This can help to keep the muscles and tendons surrounding the arch to remain strong, which may alleviate general foot pain. The heels and calf muscles can become stronger by standing on a step while lowering the heels one at a time until a gentle stretch is felt. Stretching the toes can be easy to do, and is done by picking up marbles that are on the floor with the toes. Additionally, this is also an effective stretch for the entire foot. If you would like more information about the benefits of exercising the feet, and how to perform specific stretches, please schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. 

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact James Pak, DPM from California. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctor to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

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