Stephan J. LaPointe, DPM, PhD, FACFAS
Running is thought to be a good way to stay fit and healthy, but it also comes with risks. Foot and ankle injuries are all too common among runners. Overuse is a prevalent issue, usually stemming from pushing your body too hard or increasing your mileage too quickly. These actions can lead to problems like plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and stress fractures. Poor footwear choices also play a significant role in causing foot or ankle injuries. Worn-out or ill-fitting shoes fail to provide the necessary support and cushioning, increasing the risk of injuries. Ensuring your shoes are the right fit for your feet and running style is important. Inadequate warm-up routines can strain the muscles and ligaments, making them more susceptible to injuries. In addition, running on uneven terrain can increase the likelihood of twisting an ankle. Biomechanical issues, such as overpronation or supination, can place extra stress on your feet and ankles, making them prone to injury. If you experience persistent pain or discomfort as a result of your running activity, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.
All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Stephan J. LaPointe of Georgia Foot & Ankle Specialists . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
How to Prevent Running Injuries
There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.
More Tips for Preventing Injury
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Rome, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Gout, a form of arthritis, is a painful condition that can strike suddenly and severely. It happens as a result of the accumulation of urate crystals in the joints and often leads to inflammation and intense discomfort. Primary gout results from genetic factors. This can cause the body's overproduction of uric acid or a decreased ability to excrete it, which can affect joints like the ankle and big toe. Secondary gout is caused by underlying conditions, such as kidney disease, hypertension, or obesity. These hinder the body's ability to manage uric acid levels. Gout that occurs suddenly in a single joint is referred to as acute gout and generally affects the big toe. This form of gout is characterized by excruciating pain, redness, and swelling. If left untreated, acute gout can progress into chronic gout and lead to recurrent, long-lasting joint pain and deformities. Identifying the specific type and underlying causes of gout is essential for devising an effective treatment plan, which may include lifestyle changes, medications, and dietary adjustments. If you have had one or frequent gout attacks, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist. This type of doctor can accurately determine which type of gout is present and offer the correct treatment methods.
Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Stephan J. LaPointe from Georgia Foot & Ankle Specialists . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.
Symptoms
Risk Factors
Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Rome, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.
Ingrown toenails can be more than just a nuisance. They can cause considerable discomfort and pain. This common condition occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to inflammation. The causes of ingrown toenails can vary, ranging from improper trimming techniques to wearing ill-fitting shoes. Symptoms often include pain, redness, and swelling at the affected site. Additionally, pus or clear fluid may develop if an infection sets in. Certain risk factors heighten the likelihood of developing ingrown toenails, such as genetics, having curved nails, poor foot hygiene, and engaging in activities that put pressure on the toes. Understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms, and being aware of risk factors can empower individuals to take preventive measures and seek timely treatment for this uncomfortable condition. If you have an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can offer you treatment options that are correct for you.
Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Stephan J. LaPointe of Georgia Foot & Ankle Specialists . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.
Causes
You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.
Symptoms
Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.
Treatment
Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Rome, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
The structure of the foot comprises a fascinating network of bones and joints that enable us to walk, run, and stand. The foot has three major sections: the forefoot, midfoot, and hindfoot. The forefoot contains metatarsal bones forming the ball of the foot, while the midfoot houses various tarsal bones. The tarsal bones are responsible for maintaining arches and facilitating flexibility. The hindfoot houses the heel bone, or calcaneus, and is crucial for absorbing shock during movement. Other joints in the foot, like the ankle joint and the subtalar joint, allow for complex motions that include dorsiflexion and plantarflexion. Understanding this skeletal framework is essential for appreciating the importance of proper foot care and maintaining overall mobility and comfort. If you would like more information about the biomechanics of the feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can provide you with the knowledge you are seeking.
If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Stephan J. LaPointe from Georgia Foot & Ankle Specialists . Our doctor 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
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 Rome, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
A bone fracture, such as an ankle fracture, occurs when a bone cracks or breaks due to high-force impact or stress. Even minor impacts can result in ankle fractures, especially in individuals with osteoporosis or bone cancer. An ankle fracture involves a complete or partial break in the ankle bone. Closed fractures spare surrounding tissue, while compound fractures break through the skin, raising infection risks. Fracture variations encompass avulsion, comminuted, compression, and more. Symptoms of a broken ankle differ based on age and injury severity and manifest as pain, swelling, bruising, and deformity. Causes of ankle fractures include trauma, overuse, and medical conditions. Age-related bone weakening and heightened disease susceptibility elevate fracture risk. Natural healing involves aligning and stabilizing the ankle bone with casts, plates, or rods. Healing duration depends on the fracture's severity and potential complications. Preventive measures include cautious exercising, proper diet, and addressing bone health, particularly during menopause. If you believe you have suffered a broken ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for essential tests and treatment.
Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Stephan J. LaPointe from Georgia Foot & Ankle Specialists . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.
When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.
Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle
If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Rome, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, is a condition that affects the blood vessels in the extremities. It is caused by a buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries, which narrows the blood vessels and reduces blood flow to the lower limbs and feet. Common symptoms of peripheral artery disease include hair loss on the feet and legs, intermittent pain in the muscles when walking, and cold sensations in the feet or lower legs. Numbness, slow toenail growth, and non healing sores or ulcers on the legs and feet can also occur. In some cases, finding a pulse in the leg or foot becomes difficult. The primary cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, or clogging of the arteries. Risk factors that play a role can include diabetes, smoking, obesity, and high blood pressure. Engaging in physical activity may help to improve symptoms and reduce the risk of developing PAD. Peripheral artery disease is a significant risk factor for heart attacks and strokes, and an early diagnosis is crucial in preventing severe consequences. If you suspect you may have PAD that has begun to affect your lower legs and feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment plan.
Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with Dr. Stephan J. LaPointe from Georgia Foot & Ankle Specialists . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.
Symptoms
Symptoms of PAD include:
It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.
Diagnosis
While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.
Treatment
Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Rome, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.
As parents, we cherish every moment of our children's growth and development. When it comes to their footwear, making the right choices is crucial. Shoes play a significant role in supporting their feet as they explore the world around them. There are essential tips to look for while buying children’s shoes. Having a proper fit can ensure there is adequate room for growth. Wearing shoes that are soft and flexible can encourage natural foot movement. Having ample arch support can help to aid in proper foot development. Additionally, choosing shoes that are made of breathable materials like mesh or leather can help to keep the feet dry and comfortable. Children's feet grow rapidly, and having regular checkups can help to ensure the right fit. By prioritizing the health and comfort of our children's feet, we empower them to enjoy every step of their journey toward a bright and active future. It is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can provide you with additional information about shoes for children.
Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Dr. Stephan J. LaPointe of Georgia Foot & Ankle Specialists . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...
Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.
Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.
Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.
As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’.
As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.
Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.
Be watchful for any pain or injury.
Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.
Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Rome, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
The feet are often taken for granted until foot pain develops. Foot pain can happen for several reasons which may cause difficulty in completing daily activities. Each foot has 26 bones and numerous joints, tendons, ligaments, and muscles. This complex system works together to provide stability and balance, and therefore it is helpful to maintain proper foot care. Wearing shoes that fit correctly may help to prevent a multitude of foot conditions, such as hammertoes, bunions, and ingrown toenails. Athlete’s foot and toenail fungus are common conditions that can cause discomfort. These can occur when frequenting places like public swimming pools, shower rooms, or similar areas. A small tear to the plantar fascia may cause debilitating pain, and arthritic conditions like gout can cause the joints in the big toe to become inflamed. For any type of foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and an effective treatment plan.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Stephan J. LaPointe from Georgia Foot & Ankle Specialists . Our doctor 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:
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 Rome, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
