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A foot fracture occurs when one or more bones break slightly or severely. Typical reasons why this type of injury may occur can include falling, having a heavy object land on your foot, or slight cracks may gradually form from standing on a hard surface for most of the day. There are several different types of foot fractures. If the bone should stay in place as it breaks, this is known as a non-displaced fracture. When the bone is fractured in two areas, a displaced break exists. If you have broken your foot in several places, this is referred to as a comminuted fracture. An open fracture exists when the bone is piercing through the skin, and may become infected. There are common symptoms that patients have when they have broken their foot. These can consist of severe pain and discomfort around the affected area, swelling, bruising, and it may be difficult to walk. If you have broken your foot, your podiatrist will perform a proper diagnosis, and can offer treatment solutions.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, 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 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 one of our offices located in Rome and Cedartown, GA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The Achilles tendon is found in the back of the calf, and it connects the calf muscles to the heel. This portion of tissue is instrumental in allowing the foot to point and flex, in addition to performing activities that include running, jumping, and walking. If the Achilles tendon becomes damaged as a result of a fall or injury, immediate and severe pain is often felt. There are common reasons why this type of injury may occur. These can consist of calf muscles that have not been stretched properly before beginning a new sport, wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, or increasing the intensity of a sporting activity. Many patients find the affected leg is painful in the morning upon arising, and it may become swollen as daily activities are pursued. There are specific stretches that can be performed which may bring moderate relief. If you are afflicted with an Achilles tendon injury, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist who guide you toward proper treatment options.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, 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.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Rome and Cedartown, GA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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New parents may notice their children are born with flat feet. This is a result of supporting muscles and ligaments that have not fully formed. The arch typically develops as the teenage years approach, and it is generally nothing to be concerned about. Additionally, it is common for children to walk with their toes in or out, and in most cases, will be outgrown. If children frequently participate in sporting activities, you may see blisters on their feet. This can come from wearing shoes and socks that do not fit properly. Children can be susceptible to bunions, especially if it is genetic. A large bump on the side of the big toe may form, and it may cause the second toe to overlap with the one next to it. If you notice anything unusual about your children’s feet, it is advised to consult with a podiatrist who can determine what the best course of treatment is.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, 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.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Rome and Cedartown, GA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.