Items filtered by date: October 2023

Nighttime foot cramps are a common and disruptive issue, affecting up to 60 percent of adults. They can be caused by inactivity, poor posture, and sleeping positions that restrict blood flow and compress nerves. Overexerting foot muscles through excessive activity or fatigue can lead to muscle cramping, as can wearing improper footwear or working on hard surfaces. Dehydration, often from inadequate water intake or illness, can result in foot muscle cramps due to electrolyte imbalances. Nutrient deficiencies, particularly in vitamins B-12, thiamin, folate, magnesium, and potassium, can lead to nerve damage and cause cramps. Excessive alcohol use may cause nerve damage and alcoholic neuropathy that may contribute to foot cramps. Pregnancy, especially in the later stages, can bring on leg and foot cramps, possibly due to increased weight and nutritional deficiencies. Certain health conditions like peripheral arterial disease, kidney disease, anemia, and diabetes can also be associated with nighttime foot cramps. If your foot cramps occur frequently and do not improve even after making adjustments to your routine, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. This specialist in foot and ankle care can perform a thorough evaluation, provide you with a proper diagnosis, and recommend treatment options to alleviate your discomfort. 

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with our doctors from Foot & Ankle Center of Oklahoma. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

The way your foot and ankle move is really important for how your legs work. Your foot is the last part of your leg that touches the ground and pushes against any outside force. When your foot and ankle move properly, it helps your leg handle the weight of your body. During the part of walking where your foot is on the ground, it is important that your lower leg spreads out and manages different kinds of forces like pushing, pulling, sliding, and twisting. If these forces do not spread out evenly, it can put too much pressure on your muscles and tissues, leading to potential problems. When your muscles, bones, and foot movement all work together correctly, it makes your leg handle these forces efficiently. This helps protect your muscles and tissues from getting hurt. To keep your foot and ankle biomechanics in good shape, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an examination and recommendations of anything you can do to keep your lower legs healthy.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact our doctors from Foot & Ankle Center of Oklahoma. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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

Stress fractures are small, hairline cracks in bones, often resulting from repetitive or excessive force on the affected area. These fractures can occur in various parts of the body, but they are frequently seen in weight-bearing bones such as the feet. Recognizing the symptoms of a stress fracture is essential for early intervention. One common sign is localized pain, typically described as a deep, aching discomfort that worsens with activity and may improve with rest. Swelling and tenderness at the fracture site are also common, often accompanied by a pinpoint area of pain. Unlike acute fractures, stress fractures may not always cause noticeable bruising or deformity. Left untreated, stress fractures can lead to more severe injuries. If you suspect you have a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you seek medical attention from a podiatrist promptly to prevent further damage and ensure proper healing. 

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact our doctors from Foot & Ankle Center of Oklahoma. 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 office located in Oklahoma City, OK . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Properly caring for aging feet is crucial for maintaining a senior's health. Wearing properly fitted shoes, washing and moisturizing the feet daily, and conducting regular foot checks are all essential practices. Trimming the nails is also important, as well as seeking assistance from caregivers, family members, or other professionals for help if needed. Minimizing foot injuries is vital to prevent further issues. Participating in regular exercise will also keep the feet in good condition. Embracing nutritious diets promotes overall health. Resting the feet and avoiding high heels can further safeguard them. Special care is needed for seniors with diabetes to prevent complications. If you are a senior or you take care of one, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to obtain daily professional care. 

If you need your feet checked, contact our doctors of Foot & Ankle Center of Oklahoma. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

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

Heel pain is a common ailment that can be both uncomfortable and debilitating. To effectively address heel pain, it is important to understand its underlying causes, as they can vary widely. One prevalent culprit is plantar fasciitis, a condition marked by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. This condition often results from overuse, poor footwear choices, or excessive strain on the foot's arch. Achilles tendinitis is another leading cause of heel pain, stemming from inflammation of the Achilles tendon, located at the back of the heel. This condition can be triggered by intense physical activity, tight calf muscles, or inadequate warm-up routines. Heel spurs, bony growths on the heel bone, can also lead to discomfort, though they may not always be painful. Stress fractures, arthritis, nerve irritation, and obesity are additional factors that can contribute to heel pain. Wearing unsupportive shoes and making abrupt increases in physical activity levels can exacerbate these conditions. To effectively manage heel pain, it is essential to identify the specific cause through proper diagnosis. Treatment options may include rest, stretching exercises, orthotic devices, or, in some cases, medical interventions, depending on the severity and root cause of the pain. If you are experiencing heel pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can diagnose the cause and offer a treatment plan that is right for you. 

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact our doctors of Foot & Ankle Center of Oklahoma. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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