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Osteoporosis weakens bones, making them more prone to fractures, including those in the feet, toes, and ankles. A stress fracture in the foot, especially one that occurs with minimal impact or no clear cause, may be an early warning sign of this condition. Since osteoporosis, more common among women, reduces bone density, routine activities like walking or standing for long periods can lead to small, repetitive injuries that result in foot fractures. Women with this condition are particularly vulnerable to stress fractures in the metatarsals, which are the long bones in the foot that bear weight. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. A podiatrist can assess the extent of the injury and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include immobilization, supportive footwear, or surgery in severe cases. Identifying osteoporosis-related fractures early can help prevent further complications and support long-term foot health. If you have incurred a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Clinics, PA. 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 Woodbury, West St. Paul, and Edina, MN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Laser treatment for fungal toenails is an advanced therapy that uses focused light to target and destroy fungal infections under the nail. The procedure is non-invasive, meaning there is no need for cuts or incisions, making it a more comfortable alternative to traditional treatments. It is also largely painless, with most patients reporting only mild warmth or slight discomfort during the session. One of the key benefits of laser treatment is that it carries little to no risk of side effects, unlike some oral medications that can cause adverse reactions. However, the success of the treatment depends largely on the severity of the infection. In mild cases, a single session may be enough, but more extensive infections could require multiple treatments to achieve optimal results. If you have toenail fungus and are considering this form of treatment, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist to assess your specific condition and determine the most appropriate course of action.

Laser treatment can be an effective way to get rid of toenail fungus. If you have any questions about laser treatment, consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Clinics, PA. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment for fungal nails.

What Are Toenail Fungal Infections?

Onychomycosis, or fungal infection of the nail, is a relatively common and non-serious condition. Around 10 percent of U.S. citizens are afflicted with fungal nails. Common forms of fungus that infect the nail include dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds.

Symptoms of Toenail Fungal Infections Include:

• Nail thickening
• Brittleness of the nail
• Discoloration of the nail

Diagnosis for Fungal Nails

Fungal infections are diagnosed by fungal culture and microscopy. This will rule out any other conditions such as nail trauma, psoriasis, lichen planus, and onychogryphosis.

What Is Laser Treatment?

Laser treatment is a non-invasive, safe, quick, and painless procedure that uses the heat from a laser to kill fungus in the nail. Each infected nail is targeted with a laser for several minutes. The treatment is usually utilized several different times over a select period. During this time, a podiatrist will keep an eye on the infection.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Woodbury, West St. Paul, and Edina, MN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Keeping your feet strong and flexible is essential for preventing pain and injuries. Regular foot exercises can improve circulation, build muscle strength, and maintain mobility. Toe taps are a simple way to get started. Sit with your feet flat on the floor and tap your toes while keeping your heels down. This boosts blood flow and flexibility. Another effective exercise is arch rolls, where you use a small ball, like a tennis ball, to roll under the arch of your foot, relieving tension and toning muscles. Heel raises are also great for strengthening. Stand and slowly lift your heels off the ground, balancing on your toes, then lower down gently. Repeat 10 to 15 times for the best results. If you experience persistent foot discomfort or pain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for expert advice and personalized care to keep your feet healthy.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Clinics, PA. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Great ways to stretch your feet:

• Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
• Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
• Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Woodbury, West St. Paul, and Edina, MN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pain in the bottom of the foot can result from various causes, including plantar fasciitis, Morton’s neuroma, or flat feet. Symptoms often include sharp or burning pain, swelling, or discomfort in areas like the arch, ball, or sole of the foot. These issues may stem from repetitive activities, improper footwear, or structural foot problems. A podiatrist can examine the bottom of your foot to determine the underlying cause and provide ways to alleviate the pain. This foot doctor may recommend custom orthotics to improve foot alignment, offer advice on proper footwear, or prescribe other treatments targeted to your specific condition. Left untreated, pain in the bottom of the foot may interfere with daily activities and lead to long-term issues, like altered walking patterns or chronic discomfort. If you have pain in the bottom of your foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Clinics, PA. 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 offices located in Woodbury, West St. Paul, and Edina, MN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Circulation problems in the feet occur when blood flow to the feet, toes, or ankles is restricted due to narrowed arteries. Poor circulation is often the result of atherosclerosis, where plaque builds up in the blood vessels. A result of poor circulation is peripheral arterial disease, or PAD. Patients with PAD may experience symptoms like numbness, tingling, burning sensations, or cramping in the feet or lower legs during activity. Additional signs include cool, pale skin, hair loss on the feet, slow-healing sores, and a diminished pulse. People with diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or a history of smoking are at increased risk of developing PAD. A podiatrist can assess your circulation issues through non-invasive tests, such as the ankle-brachial index, or ABI, or a Doppler ultrasound to determine blood flow and identify any blockages. Timely diagnosis and treatment by a podiatrist can help reduce symptoms and prevent complications, like non-healing foot wounds or infections. If you have circulation problems in the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our podiatrists of Foot and Ankle Clinics, PA. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Woodbury, West St. Paul, and Edina, MN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Sesamoiditis is a type of tendonitis that affects the two sesamoid bones that are located beneath the big toe joint. This condition occurs when the tendons surrounding these bones become inflamed, typically due to overuse or repetitive pressure. Symptoms of sesamoiditis include pain beneath the big toe, swelling, and tenderness, especially when walking, running, or bearing weight on the affected foot. You may also have trouble moving the toe or experience discomfort when wearing shoes. The primary cause of sesamoiditis includes activities that place repetitive pressure on the big toe, such as running, ballet, or jumping. Wearing ill-fitting shoes or high heels can also contribute to the condition. A podiatrist can help diagnose sesamoiditis through physical exams and imaging. Treatments may include rest, anti-inflammatory medications, custom orthotics to relieve pressure, or specific exercises to strengthen the foot. In severe cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery may be considered. If you have any of the above symtpoms, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot and Ankle Clinics, PA. Our doctors will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Woodbury, West St. Paul, and Edina, MN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that causes pain in the heel and bottom of the foot. The primary cause of plantar fasciitis is repeated stress or strain on the fascia, often due to excessive walking, running, or standing. Other factors like wearing poor footwear, tight calf muscles, or being overweight can also contribute. The most noticeable symptom is sharp pain in the heel, especially when taking the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. As the day progresses, the pain may lessen but can return with prolonged standing or walking. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination where a podiatrist may palpate the heel and foot, and sometimes imaging tests to rule out other conditions. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists  from Foot and Ankle Clinics, PA. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Woodbury, West St. Paul, and Edina, MN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a common condition caused by fungal infections affecting the nail. Different types include distal subungual, white superficial, and proximal subungual onychomycosis. Distal subungual onychomycosis is the most common, causing thickened, yellow nails that separate from the nail bed. White superficial onychomycosis appears as white, chalky spots on the nail surface, which can become brittle. Proximal subungual onychomycosis is rarer, starting at the nail base and spreading outward, often linked to weakened immune systems. Risk factors include warm, moist environments, trauma to the nail, and conditions like diabetes. Left untreated, fungal infections can cause discomfort and damage. If you suspect some type of foot fungus, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment, including advanced options for stubborn nails.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot and Ankle Clinics, PA. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Woodbury, West St. Paul, and Edina, MN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.