Paul Mayo, DPM
Kathan Shah, DPM
Kristopher Koelewyn, DPM
Visalia, CA (559) 636-3668
Porterville, CA (559) 615-0420
Paul Mayo, DPM
Kathan Shah, DPM
Kristopher Koelewyn, DPM
The long bones in the foot that connect to the toes are known as the metatarsals. They are common bones to fracture, and this may happen from participating in sporting activities or from dropping a heavy object on the foot. Osteoporosis is a medical condition that can cause the bones to become fragile, which may lead to incurring a broken foot. Common symptoms that can accompany this condition can consist of immediate pain, swelling, and bruising. It is often difficult, if not impossible, to walk on it, and crutches may have to be used that can provide mobility. A broken foot is generally diagnosed by having an X-ray taken, and it is followed by wearing a boot or cast, which can provide stability as the healing process occurs. The recovery period is approximately eight weeks before the patient can wear a normal shoe and bear the weight of the body. A full recovery may take longer if the patient is interested in pursuing high impact activities. If you have broken your foot, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can effectively treat a broken foot.
A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Central Valley Foot & Ankle. 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:
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 offices located in Visalia and Porterville, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Severely cracked heels are called fissures. Dry skin causes cracked heels, and fissures can bleed and become infected. There are many reasons to have dry skin on the heels. These can include wearing shoes that are backless, or from medical conditions such as a thyroid disorder or diabetes. The skin on the heels can crack as the aging process occurs, or from damaged nerves that are unable to sweat. Fissures can be painful, and medical treatment is often sought that may help to stop any infection. Many people enjoy soaking their feet in warm water for several minutes, followed by applying a good moisturizer on them. This process can be completed by wearing clean cotton socks, which can protect the heel. If you have heel fissures, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can prescribe medicated cream that can effectively treat cracked heels and fissures.
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 Central Valley Foot & Ankle. 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 our offices located in Visalia and Porterville, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
A fungal infection that develops on the feet may be classified as athlete’s foot. There are noticeable symptoms consisting of itchiness between the toes and on the soles of the feet. Additionally, the skin may become dry and can begin to flake. This fungus lives in warm environments, such as public swimming pools and shower room floors. Athlete's foot is contagious, so it is suggested that you wear appropriate shoes while in these communal areas. It is also wise to refrain from sharing shoes, socks, and towels as this may help to reduce the spread of Athlete’s foot. If you find that the bottoms of your feet are itchy, red, or irritated you may have developed athlete’s foot. It is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can treat this condition and prescribe medication for relief.
Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists from Central Valley Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.
What Is Athlete’s Foot?
Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.
Prevention
The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:
Symptoms
Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Visalia and Porterville, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Morton’s neuroma is a condition that involves the feet. The medical name for this is known as Morton’s metatarsalgia or interdigital neuroma, and it affects the nerve between the third and fourth toes. Wearing high heels that do not have adequate room in the toe area is the leading cause of Morton’s neuroma. Wearing these types of shoes may cause this nerve to become compressed and is often painful and uncomfortable. Additionally, it may happen to patients who frequently participate in running and jumping activities, or to people who have flat feet or high arches. Common symptoms that are associated with this condition can include a tingling sensation that may eventually become a sharp and shooting pain. Numbness can accompany this ailment, and relief may be found when looser shoes are worn. If you have this type of pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can provide treatment options, which may include wearing custom-made orthotics.
Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Central Valley Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.
Morton’s Neuroma
Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.
What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?
Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Visalia and Porterville, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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