A Lisfranc injury affects the middle part of the foot, where the long bones of the toes connect to the arch. This type of injury can happen during sports, a misstep on uneven ground, or from a heavy object falling on the foot. A Lisfranc injury may involve stretched ligaments or broken bones, depending on how serious the impact is. Common signs include swelling on the top of the foot, bruising on the bottom of the arch, and pain that makes it hard to walk or put weight on the foot. These injuries are often mistaken for a simple sprain, but if left untreated they can lead to arthritis, ongoing pain, or changes in foot shape. A podiatrist can check for a Lisfranc injury with an exam and imaging tests, and recommend the right treatment, which may include immobilization or surgery. If you have symptoms of a Lisfranc foot injury, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Complete Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC. 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:

• 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 offices located in Bellefontaine, OH and Springfield, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Hammertoe is a condition where one or more toes bend abnormally at the middle joint, creating a curled or claw-like appearance. This often happens when muscles and tendons in the toe become imbalanced, pulling the joint into the wrong position. Wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or inherited foot structure can all play a role in its development. At first, hammertoe may cause only mild discomfort, but over time, it can lead to pain, corns, calluses, or difficulty wearing certain shoes. The affected toe may also become stiff, making it harder to move. Treatment depends on how advanced the condition is. Early care can include wearing shoes with a wide toe box, using pads or orthotics, and doing simple stretching exercises. In more severe cases, surgery may be needed to straighten the toe. If you are experiencing pain or changes in your toes, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for expert advice and guidance.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Complete Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC. our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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

Foot drop is a condition in which the foot drags or has difficulty lifting while walking, often caused by weakness in the muscles that raise the front of the foot and toes. This weakness can develop from problems in the muscles themselves, nerve damage that interrupts signals to the foot and ankle, or structural issues that affect movement. People with foot drop often change their walking style to avoid tripping, sometimes lifting the knee higher than normal to clear the toes from the ground. Over time, this can create additional strain on the joints of the foot and ankle. Causes include direct injury to the dorsiflexor muscles, nerve compression, diabetic neuropathy, or stroke-related changes. A podiatrist can identify the underlying reason for the problem and recommend supportive devices to improve mobility. If you have problems lifting your feet while walking, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Complete Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC. 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 offices located in Bellefontaine, OH and Springfield, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

When shoes fit correctly, it can be easier to complete daily activities. Wearing the right shoes may be helpful in protecting the body from injury, and the feet will generally feel comfortable. This is a result of proper support and adequate cushioning in the shoes. Research has indicated that it is beneficial to purchase shoes in the afternoon, when the feet are typically at their largest. It is important to ensure the toes have ample room to move freely, in addition to making sure your heels do not slip in the shoe. The type of shoes that are worn can influence the way you walk, and may affect the arches, joints, and foot muscles. If you would like to know more information about how to purchase properly fitted shoes, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist. 

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of one of our podiatrists from Complete Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC. our doctors will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

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