September 2022

The foot is made up of tiny bones, called metatarsals. A metatarsal stress fracture is an acute fracture of one of these little bones. This usually occurs from overuse or poor foot mechanics. When bodies break down, they generally break down at the weakest point. In sports, stress fractures are caused by repetitive force over a long period of time. Metatarsal fractures can happen from wearing the wrong shoes, training on hard pavement and poor nutrition. These factors puts one at higher risk for developing stress fractures. Symptoms of metatarsal stress fractures are dull, underlying pain, that can be intermittent. One should not ignore pain of any sort. In fact, catching and treating pain early can help metatarsal stress fractures heal quicker than if ignored. If you feel you have sustained a stress fracture or have any other pain in your feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can diagnose the problem and get you back to full functioning as soon as possible.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Integrative Foot & Ankle Centers of Washington. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                  
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

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.

People who have the foot condition known as tarsal tunnel syndrome often have symptoms that consist of numbness or a sensation that feels like pins and needles in the heel of their foot. This feeling may spread to the arch of the foot and can cause pain and discomfort. The condition is defined as the posterior tibial nerve becoming compressed and trapped inside the ankle. Patients who have flat feet may experience tarsal tunnel syndrome and this may result from the foot rolling. Specific medical conditions like osteoarthritis and diabetes may contribute to the onset of this ailment. Mild relief may come from taking certain medications including anti-inflammatory pills, which are typically prescribed. Performing exercises that can strengthen the foot once the inflammation has subsided may help to make it easier to accomplish daily activities. If you suffer from this ailment, please confer with a podiatrist who can guide you toward the best treatment techniques for you.       

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact one of our podiatrists of Integrative Foot & Ankle Centers of Washington. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

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.

Cuboid syndrome is a foot condition that can occur when the cuboid bone moves out of alignment. This can happen as a result of an acute injury or can gradually become misplaced as the aging process occurs. It can be more common among athletes and dancers than in the rest of the population and is generally triggered by physical activity. Pain and discomfort with cuboid syndrome are felt on the outside of the foot and the pain may be relieved when the weight is taken off the foot. Additional symptoms of this condition can include a limited range of motion in the foot and ankle and there may be bruising and swelling on the sole of the foot. People who have an abnormal foot structure like flat feet may be prone to developing cuboid syndrome. Additionally, patients who are obese, people who run on uneven surfaces, and wearing shoes that do not fit correctly may be possible causes of cuboid syndrome. Mild relief can come frequently resting the foot, and temporarily stopping the activity that may have caused this condition. This is a foot condition that is treated by a podiatrist, and it is suggested that you contact one for permanent treatment options if you are afflicted with cuboid syndrome.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, 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.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

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.

Cracked heels, or heel fissures, can look quite unattractive and can feel uncomfortable. This condition can affect a wide variety of individuals and it occurs when the skin on the back of the heels becomes so incredibly dry that the skin breaks or cracks. There are several steps that you might consider taking to prevent the onset of cracked heels. For example, you may try to keep your bare feet from being exposed to extreme hot or cold weather by covering your feet with appropriate dry socks and footwear. Additionally, to try to prevent cracked heels, one could be diligent about checking the ingredients in the soap used to clean one’s body, as soap can often dry out the skin. For instance, sodium lauryl sulfate and artificial fragrances are two main ingredients often used in soap products that can sometimes dry the skin out. Lastly, one could consider not using extremely hot water when taking a bath or shower. If you have heel fissures or are concerned about developing this condition, contact a podiatrist who can help you with this affliction. 

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, 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.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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.