A foot stress fracture is a small crack in a bone, typically resulting from repetitive force or overuse. This injury commonly occurs in athletes or individuals who suddenly increase their physical activity without adequate preparation. Factors contributing to stress fractures include wearing improper footwear, inadequate training techniques, and sudden changes in exercise intensity. Symptoms often involve localized pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest. To prevent foot stress fractures, it is essential to gradually increase activity levels, choose supportive footwear, and incorporate proper warm-up and stretching routines. Strengthening exercises for the foot and lower leg can also help build resilience. If you have sustained a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can treat this condition.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Bangor Podiatry. 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 our offices located in Bangor, Gilbert, and Bethlehem, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Hiking in flip-flops offers some benefits, such as breathability and convenience, making them a quick choice for casual, short walks. They are easy to slip on and off, which can be practical in warm climates. However, the drawbacks far outweigh these benefits. Flip flops provide minimal support and cushioning, leading to increased risk of foot strain and injuries. They offer little protection from sharp rocks, uneven terrain, or potential hazards like insects. The lack of a secure fit can result in slips and falls, especially on rugged or slippery trails. If you enjoy hiking while wearing flip-flops and have endured a foot injury, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions.

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 Bangor Podiatry. 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 our offices located in Bangor, Gilbert, and Bethlehem, PA .  We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Preventing falls both at work and in the home is vital for safety and well-being. In the workplace, maintaining a clean, clutter-free environment and ensuring that all walkways are well-lit can significantly reduce fall risks. Employees should be encouraged to use proper footwear with slip-resistant soles and to secure any loose cables or cords. At home, keeping floors tidy and free from obstacles is essential. Use non-slip mats in bathrooms and secure rugs to prevent slipping. Ensure adequate lighting in hallways and staircases to improve visibility. Installing handrails on stairs and in bathrooms can provide additional support. Additionally, regularly checking and repairing any worn or uneven flooring can also help prevent accidents. Various foot and ankle injuries can happen from falling. If this applies to you, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can effectively treat these types of ailments, and guide you on additional fall prevention techniques.

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 Bangor Podiatry. 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 our offices located in Bangor, Gilbert, and Bethlehem, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle muscle strength is important for maintaining stability, balance, and overall mobility. Strong ankle muscles support daily activities such as walking, running, and jumping, and help prevent injuries by providing support and absorbing shock. Ankle muscle testing evaluates the strength and functionality of the muscles surrounding the ankle joint. This assessment helps to identify weaknesses or imbalances that may contribute to instability or increased injury risk. Testing typically involves exercises and movements that challenge the ankle's range of motion and strength, such as resistance tests and functional tasks. Poor ankle strength can result from injury, inactivity, or medical conditions like arthritis. If ankle strength is found to be poor, targeted exercises, and strength training can help improve muscle function. Addressing underlying causes, such as correcting biomechanical issues or treating injuries, is also essential to restoring optimal ankle strength and function. If you have ankle pain and feel weakness in your ankles, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and treatment options.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Bangor Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Bangor, Gilbert, and Bethlehem, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Engaging in windsurfing or kitesurfing can be exhilarating, but it also exposes participants to potential foot injuries and cuts caused by beach pollution. Debris like sharp shells, broken glass, or discarded objects can pose hazards, leading to cuts or puncture wounds on the feet. Immediate first aid is critical, involving cleaning the wound with fresh water and applying an antiseptic to prevent infection. Removing any embedded debris from the affected foot carefully is essential before covering the laceration with a sterile bandage. Prevention strategies include wearing water shoes or protective footwear to minimize direct contact with hazardous materials. Surfers should also familiarize themselves with the beach conditions and inspect the area for potential dangers that can happen to the feet before launching into the water. If you enjoy either form of surfing and you endured a foot injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat any foot injury you may have.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Bangor Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bangor, Gilbert, and Bethlehem, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.