A broken foot can happen from a fall, a heavy object landing on the foot, or even repeated stress from activities that place too much pressure on the bones. Many people notice sudden pain, swelling, bruising, or difficulty putting weight on the foot right after the injury. In some cases, the discomfort may seem mild at first, but quickly worsens with walking. The area might feel tender to touch, and shoes may become uncomfortable due to swelling. Even small fractures can interfere with balance and everyday movement if they are not recognized early. Rest, elevation, and avoiding weight on the foot are usually important first steps until proper care is given. If you suspect a foot fracture because of persistent pain, swelling, or trouble walking, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Brian Doerr, DPM from Florida. 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 our office located in Fort Meyers, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout often announces itself with sudden, intense pain in a joint, most commonly the big toe. The affected area may become red, swollen, and warm to the touch, and even the light pressure of a sock or sheet can feel unbearable. Some individuals notice stiffness or lingering tenderness after the most severe discomfort eases. These episodes can appear without warning and may come and go over time. Because gout is linked to elevated uric acid levels, flare ups can become more frequent if the underlying issue is not addressed. Being aware of these signs allows for earlier care and helps prevent long-term joint damage. If you experience repeated bouts of sharp joint pain or swelling in your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this painful condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Brian Doerr, DPM from Florida. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Fort Meyers, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Peripheral artery disorders occur when circulation to the legs and feet becomes restricted because the arteries have narrowed or hardened. As blood flow decreases, the muscles and skin do not receive enough oxygen, leading to cramping during activity, fatigue in the calves, or a heavy feeling that improves with rest. Some people notice their feet feel cooler than usual or see wounds taking much longer to heal. These circulation problems often develop gradually and are influenced by aging, smoking, diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. Recognizing the early signs matters because untreated poor circulation can lead to infections or chronic ulcers. With proper diagnosis, treatment options can improve comfort and help protect long-term mobility. If you notice persistent foot discomfort, numbness, or slow-healing sores, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate care.

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with Brian Doerr, DPM from Florida. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

• Claudication (leg pain from walking)
• Numbness in legs
• Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
• Paleness of the skin
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
• Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Fort Meyers, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Stress fractures in female athletes often develop from repeated stress on the bones of the foot, such as the metatarsals or navicular, rather than from a single injury. These hairline fractures can result from overtraining, wearing shoes that lack adequate support, or low bone density, which is sometimes linked to hormonal changes. Symptoms of stress fractures often start as mild aching in the foot during activity and progress to sharp pain that worsens with continued exercise. Swelling or tenderness over a specific bone can also occur. A podiatrist can diagnose a stress fracture by assessing foot pain, ordering an MRI or bone scan, and identifying biomechanical issues that contribute to excess stress on the foot. Treatment may involve using a brace or walking boot, or in some cases, surgery to help the bone heal properly. If you are a female athlete at risk of stress fractures, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Brian Doerr, DPM from Florida. Our doctor 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 contact our office located in Fort Meyers, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.