August 2023

A Jones fracture occurs in the fifth metatarsal, which is the long bone located on the outside of the foot. The name derives from Sir Robert Jones, who first reported the injury in 1902.  A Jones fracture occurs at the base of the part of the metatarsal nearest the ankle. It can be the result of stress on the bone from repeated movement, as well as from overuse or a traumatic injury. The fifth metatarsal differs from the other four metatarsals, in that the base juts out slightly. The metatarsals are used mainly for balance while standing and walking, and as a result, they get more use than other bones in the foot. A Jones fracture may be slow to heal and sometimes may not heal at all. Chances of a recurrence are high with this type of injury. The healing period may take up to two months, but pain may be experienced for three to six months. A brace or cast may be prescribed, and in a limited number of cases, surgery may be needed to repair the bone. For more information about a Jones fracture, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, 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.

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 Kirkland, Everett, and Renton, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Toenail fungus is a stubborn and unsightly foot condition. It often begins on the nail of the big toe and may travel to the other nails if treatment is not received. It is caused by a fungus that lives in warm and wet environments, such as public swimming pools, gym locker rooms, and similar places. The fungus can enter the body through tiny cracks that are on the skin of the feet. It is easy to prevent this from occurring by wearing flip-flops or water shoes while in these areas. There may also be existing medical conditions that can lead to the development of toenail fungus. These can include diabetes, poor circulation, or illnesses that can affect the immune system. It is beneficial to limit wearing pantyhose, which may cause the feet to sweat and be at risk of developing toenail fungus. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer prescribed medication or other viable treatment options.

For more information about treatment, 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.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

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 tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

New parents experience a mix of excitement and nervousness as they welcome their baby. They diligently observe their child's movements to monitor developmental progress. One crucial aspect of this assessment is the Babinski reflex, also known as the plantar reflex, which doctors use to evaluate a baby's neurological development. These reflexes are spontaneous responses triggered by touch or loud sounds, which play a vital role in a baby's survival. When the baby's foot is stroked from heel to toe, the Babinski reflex causes the big toe to flex upward while the other toes fan out. This response indicates effective communication between the brain and spinal cord. Unlike other newborn reflexes, the Babinski reflex persists longer, typically vanishing between six months to one or two years of age. If you are a new parent and would like to learn more about the significance of your baby’s feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can educate you and answer any questions you might have.

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

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 Kirkland, Everett, and Renton, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

People who fall or who have a fear of falling may benefit from having regular physical examinations done. This can help monitor existing medicines, as dosages may need to be adjusted as the body changes. It can also help to have regular eye examinations performed that can manage eyeglass prescriptions. Many elderly patients like to exercise and can feel their bodies becoming stronger. Exercising is an important fall prevention technique, and it may also help to increase balance. Many seniors enjoy practicing Tai Chi, which can make their legs stronger. Vitamin D may be added to the diet which may help improve bone, muscle, and nerve health. Additionally, there are methods that can be implemented in the home that can make it safer. These can include installing grab bars in the toilet and shower area and improving lighting in the living area. Falling can impact the feet, and can cause havoc in completing daily activities. If you would like to learn more about fall prevention techniques, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can provide you with useful information.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Integrative Foot & Ankle Centers of Washington. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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.

The biomechanics of the feet are interesting to learn about. The ankle is a complex part of the body, and each part of the ankle joint is responsible for different functions. The 26 bones in each foot are categorized into three sections, consisting of the tarsal and metatarsal bones, in addition to the phalanges. There are joints that are located between the tarsal bones and various areas of the metatarsal bones. There are two groups of muscles that are found in each foot, and the toes can be extended by using the dorsal foot muscles. The muscles in the sole of the foot are referred to as the plantar muscles and are divided into groups. The lateral plantar muscles are connected to the fifth toe, and the other four toes are linked to the central plantar muscles. If you would like additional information about the workings of the foot bones and muscles, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can provide you with the information you are seeking.

If you have any concerns about your feet, 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.

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

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

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 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.