June 2022

If you are a runner and are experiencing some pain in one of your toes, look for the following signs that may indicate you have a broken toe. First, is the pain you are feeling intense and throbbing? Do you notice any deformity, lumps or bumps on the toe? Is it difficult to walk or run? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you may have a broken toe. Swelling and severe bruising may also be present with a broken toe, and the toenail may also be discolored. A podiatrist can examine your foot and run imaging tests to make an accurate diagnosis. There are many ways a podiatrist can help your broken toe to heal, depending on which toe it is, where it is broken, and how badly it is broken. You will, no doubt, be anxious to get back to training, but running on a broken toe is not suggested. Listen to your body and your podiatrist, who will advise you on when it is safe to begin running again. Ask if there are other exercises you can do in the meantime to stay active. 

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with one of our podiatrists from Integrative Foot & Ankle Centers of Washington. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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

When excess fluid gathers in the tissues of your feet and ankles and causes swelling, it is known as edema. Edema is an unpleasant side effect most women experience during pregnancy, becoming quite uncomfortable in the third trimester. Edema during pregnancy is caused by a number of factors. First, when a woman is pregnant, their body retains more fluids. Also, their growing uterus places pressure on veins in the lower extremities, which slows the rate of blood returning back to the heart. This can cause blood and fluid to pool in the tissues of their feet and ankles. Pregnant women dealing with edema would do well to make an appointment with a podiatrist. With exercise recommendations, compression stockings, custom orthotics, and other foot care, a podiatrist can be very helpful to any pregnant woman who is struggling with edema. 

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 Integrative Foot & Ankle Centers of Washington. 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 one of our offices located in Kirkland, Everett, and Renton, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-flops are perfectly fine and actually quite helpful when used sparingly and for good reasons, such as to avoid wet surfaces in public showers, pool areas, and locker rooms, or getting to and from the beach without burning your feet on the hot sand. However, flip-flops do not offer an adequate structure for your feet and ankles, nor do they support your heels properly. Wearing them regularly can lead to fallen arches, heel pain, back issues, sore muscles, and more. They can even make you more prone to slipping and falling. To beat the heat in the summer months, it is better for your feet if you choose well-structured sandals, instead of flimsy flip-flops. For more information on the perils of flip-flops, contact a podiatrist.

Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Integrative Foot & Ankle Centers of Washington. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops.  Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off; they're perfect for any summer beach goer.  However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.

How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?

• Ankle problems
• Hip problems
• Lower back problems
• Pain in the balls of the feet
• Problems with foot arches
• Changes in the way you walk

Are There Injuries Associated with Flip-Flops?

Yes.  Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops regularly are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections.  Common injuries and ailments include:

• Sprained ankles
• Blisters
• Infections
• Cuts and Scrapes

I like Wearing Flip-Flops. Are There Safe Alternatives?

When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and that are made of high-quality materials that will support for your feet.  These flip-flops will cost more but will also last longer as a result.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Kirkland, Everett, and Renton, WA .  We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

High heels came into being for some practical and vanity reasons. Men wore them so their feet fit better in stirrups when horseback riding and women wore them because they made their feet look smaller, their bodies look taller, and their legs more elongated and toned in appearance. When high heels are worn, the foot is put at a forward angle causing one to walk on their toes and changing body biomechanics, posture, and gait. This leads to a greater risk of injury and the development of painful chronic foot conditions. The higher the heel and the longer the wear, the greater the risks. When wearing high heels, one’s body struggles to stay balanced and various painful foot conditions can develop as a result, such as plantar fasciitis. If you want to continue wearing high heels, try to alternate them with other footwear, vary heel heights of shoes, and stretch calf muscles so they will not be shortened and tight. If your foot pain does not resolve, consult with a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Integrative Foot & Ankle Centers of Washington. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Kirkland, Everett, and Renton, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.