January 2019

Routinely going for runs offers an abundance of health benefits, but there are also some health risks to watch out for, especially regarding feet. One of the common ailments associated with running is stress fractures. Running results in repetitive pressure being applied to your foot, which can create a small break in the bone. This small break is called a stress fracture. Sadly, sometimes this fracture may not become apparent to the runner immediately and they could be put in a situation where they cause more damage. There could be a feeling of slight discomfort, but the fracture may not be obvious at first. Running on a stress fracture could result in a full-on fracture or full break, so paying attention to what your foot is feeling is important. If you feel that you may have a stress fracture or simply want more information in order to avoid getting one in the future, then it is suggested you consult with a podiatrist.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Kellvan Cheng, DPM from Elite Foot & Ankle. 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 feel free to contact our office located in Carrollton, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Specific foot conditions that are known as plantar fasciitis and heel spurs may be a result of shortened muscles in the lower legs and feet. Moderate relief may be obtained when these muscles are lengthened, and this may be accomplished by properly stretching the feet. An effective stretch for the plantar fascia consists of lowering your heel while standing on a step until a desired stretch is felt. Maximum results may be achieved by alternating feet and repeated several times per day. The towel stretch is an effective method in stretching this band of tissue on the bottom of the foot. A satisfying stretch may be achieved while sitting on the floor, wrapping a towel around the sole of the foot, while pulling inward. Hold this position for several seconds and repeat on the other foot. If you would like additional information about the importance of stretching your feet, please speak with a podiatrist who can recommend beneficial exercises.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Kellvan Cheng, DPM from Elite Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

• Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
• Similar to the previous one, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
• Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
• Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising and ice and rest the foot. It is advised to then see a podiatrist for help.

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

Research has shown that a baby’s foot is generally flexible and padded with fatty tissue until walking begins. Babies will typically begin walking at approximately 12 months of age and many toddlers are flat footed. This condition will generally disappear once walking has begun, and this may be a result of the increased strength of bones and muscles that are present in the feet. When the walking process starts, a soft soled shoe is ideal to begin wearing and this may enable the toddler to feel the ground while walking, in addition to protecting their feet. The correct shoe size may be determined by measuring your child’s feet frequently and this may aid in monitoring the speed of their growing feet. Please make sure there is plenty of room for the toes to move freely in, in addition to confirming the shoe is comfortable in width and length. It is suggested to consult with a podiatrist if you would like additional information about how to take care of children’s feet.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Kellvan Cheng, DPM of Elite Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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

Many people have experienced foot and ankle injuries and may be familiar with physical therapy as a form of positive foot therapy. It may contribute in providing the desired relief, which may be needed from uncomfortable foot conditions that may include plantar fasciitis or foot and ankle fractures. This type of therapy may be conducive in restoring joint mobility, much needed muscle strength, in addition to improvements in walking. These types of injuries may originate from overuse of the muscles and tendons in the feet and ankles. Additionally, foot therapy may be useful in recovering from foot or ankle surgery. If you have endured a serious injury to your foot, ankle, or surrounding areas, it is advised to seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can recommend the best form of therapy for you.

Foot therapy is often necessary for those recovering from either foot deformities or foot injuries. If you have concerns regarding therapy, Kellvan Cheng, DPM of Elite Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Most Common Injuries

People who are active or athletes are prone to a variety of injuries. Therefore, it is often important to take part in physical therapy in order to quickly get back on the right track. 

What to Do When Injured

Physical Therapy – This specialized treatment will focus on the affected area, speeding up recovery and the overall healing process. It is a proven method that has helped millions of people return from any injury.

During physical therapy you will undergo regimented training to get back into full form. Training is often very difficult, especially at first when the foot feels weak. Physical therapy often involves:

Basic stretching and twisting exercises – getting the feet’s mobility and flexibility up.

Massaging – the therapist will massage the injured area in order to activate the muscles and relax them.

Strengthening Exercises – this allows the muscles in the affected area to regain their full strength, a vital step towards full recovery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Carrollton, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

If you are experiencing pain, stiffness, or swelling in the joints of your feet, you may have what is known as arthritis. A common area of the foot where arthritis may appear are the toes, and severe pain and discomfort may be felt while lifting the toes to walk. You may notice a permanent bend in the joints of the toes, and this may make it difficult for the foot to lie flat on the floor. Some patients notice a bump developing on top of the toes, and this may possibly result from the joints rubbing together. Additionally, the toenails may separate from the nail bed, or pain may be felt in the rest of the foot. Possible treatment options can include injecting steroids, which may aid in reducing any inflammation that may be present. Having surgery performed, which may be helpful in reshaping the bones in the feet may be an additional option. It is advised to speak to a podiatrist who can assist you in determining which treatment is best for you.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Kellvan Cheng, DPM from Elite Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Carrollton, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.