A foot stress fracture is a small crack in a bone caused by repeated stress. It is often called a hairline fracture because the crack can be narrow. Stress fractures often affect the long bones of the feet, called metatarsals. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and bruising. Pain often becomes worse during walking or exercise, and may improve with rest. As the injury progresses, discomfort can occur during activities.

Several factors can increase the risk of developing a foot stress fracture. Running, jumping, and repetitive activities place repeated force on bones. Suddenly increasing exercise intensity can give bones too little time to adapt. Wearing poorly supportive footwear may add stress to the feet. Low bone density, nutritional deficiencies, and previous stress fractures can further increase risk. Changes in foot structure may also create uneven pressure while walking.

A podiatrist will examine the foot and ask when the pain started and what activities make it worse. The examination may include checking for tenderness, swelling, and pain over a specific bone. X-rays may be used, although early stress fractures do not always appear on initial images. Additional imaging tests may be recommended when needed. Treatment focuses on protecting the bone and limiting activities that increase pain. A walking boot or other type of support may be recommended while healing occurs. The podiatrist will monitor progress and guide return to normal activity.

Ignoring a foot stress fracture can allow the crack to become larger and harder to heal. Continuing high-impact activity may prolong recovery. Rest and following your podiatrist's recommendations can help protect the injured bone. Seek care if foot pain persists, especially when swelling, tenderness, or bruising develops without a clear injury. If you have developed a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and effectively treat this condition.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Susan Yeager, DPM from Yeager Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Redding, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Cracked heels develop when dry, thickened skin around the heel loses flexibility and begins to split. These splits, also called heel fissures, may start as small lines and gradually become deeper. Symptoms can include itching, redness, and rough skin. More serious cracks may bleed and become painful during walking. Because the heels support much of the body's weight, repeated pressure can make the condition worse and interfere with comfortable daily activities.

Several everyday habits can increase the risk of cracked heels. Standing for long periods of time places repeated pressure on the heel and may cause dry skin to split. Walking barefoot offers little protection from rough surfaces and can increase friction. Being overweight may place additional pressure on the heels. Other risk factors include dry skin, wearing poorly fitting footwear, and prolonged exposure to dry environments. People who notice thick, callused skin should take steps to keep their heels protected and moisturized.

A podiatrist can examine the heels and determine how deep the cracks have become. The skin may be carefully reduced to remove thickened areas that contribute to pressure. A podiatrist may recommend a medical-grade moisturizer or protective dressing to support healing. Supportive footwear can also help reduce stress on the heels. If bleeding, infection, or another skin condition is present, additional treatment may be needed. Following podiatric guidance can help the skin heal safely and lower the chance of recurring fissures.

You can help prevent cracked heels by moisturizing regularly and wearing supportive shoes that protect the heel. Avoid walking barefoot on hard surfaces when possible. If standing is required for work, take opportunities to rest your feet throughout the day. Do not cut or aggressively scrape thickened skin at home. Persistent itching, redness, or bleeding should be evaluated promptly. If you have painful cracked heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Susan Yeager, DPM from Yeager Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor 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 office located in Redding, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cuboid syndrome can cause stubborn pain along the outside of the foot, especially after an injury or demanding activity. The cuboid is a small bone in the midfoot that helps connect the heel area with the front of the foot. When this bone becomes irritated or moves out of its normal position, discomfort can develop. People may notice tenderness, aching, or pain while placing weight on the foot.

One common cause is an ankle sprain. The force from an injury can affect the position of the cuboid and surrounding tissues. Repetitive stress can also contribute, particularly during running, jumping, or sports that require frequent changes in direction. Risk factors include ankle instability, sudden increases in exercise, and wearing shoes that do not provide enough support. Flat feet or high arches may also change pressure across the outer midfoot.

During an evaluation, a podiatrist will ask about the injury or activity that preceded the symptoms. The foot will be examined for tenderness, swelling, and changes in alignment. X-rays or other imaging may be used when a fracture or another problem needs to be excluded. Treatment may include rest from aggravating activities, padding, or taping. In some cases, the podiatrist may perform a careful cuboid manipulation to restore normal positioning.

Cuboid syndrome usually affects the outer portion of the midfoot, near the cuboid bone between the heel and smaller toes. The discomfort may feel like a deep ache or a sharp pain during forceful push-off movements. Some people notice symptoms more strongly while walking on an uneven surface or standing for long periods. Since foot pain can have several causes, it is important to obtain an accurate diagnosis. If symptoms of cuboid syndrome continue, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with Susan Yeager, DPM from Yeager Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

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

Ankle pain can make everyday activities difficult and can affect people of all ages. The discomfort ranges from a mild ache to severe pain that makes standing or walking difficult. Some cases begin after sports or other physical activity. Others develop after wearing shoes that are too tight or shoes that lack proper support. Ankle pain also develops after a twist, a fall, or another injury. Conditions like Achilles tendonitis, bursitis, and fractures also cause ankle pain. Achilles tendonitis affects the strong cord that connects the calf muscles to the heel. Bursitis is an irritation of a small fluid-filled sac that cushions nearby tissues.

Types of ankle pain include sharp, dull, or throbbing discomfort, depending on the cause. Swelling, bruising, and stiffness are also common. Some people notice redness or warmth surrounding the joint. Others hear a popping sound when the injury happens. Difficulty putting weight on the ankle or walking normally can point to a more serious injury. A fracture can cause severe pain, significant swelling, and an ankle that looks out of place. Ignoring these warning signs can allow the condition to worsen and delay proper healing. A careful examination helps determine exactly what is causing the pain.

A podiatrist evaluates ankle pain with a detailed medical history and a thorough examination of the foot and ankle. Imaging tests, like X-rays or ultrasounds, also help identify damaged bones or soft tissues. After finding the cause, the podiatrist creates a treatment plan based on the diagnosis and the patient's needs. Treatment options include supportive devices, custom orthotics, braces, or other medical care designed to improve stability and reduce pain. The goal is to restore comfort, improve movement, and help prevent future ankle problems. If you have consistent ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Susan Yeager, DPM from Yeager Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor 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 tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• 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 office located in Redding, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.