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Simple Methods That Can Help Prevent Running Injuries
The importance of knowing how to prevent running injuries is crucial for people who enjoy the sport of marathon running or light jogging. Research has indicated that approximately 50 percent of injuries can happen every year to people who run regularly. An injury to the Achilles tendon is a common running mishap, and this can cause severe pain and discomfort. It often happens as a result of increasing speed and intensity too quickly, which may rupture or inflame the Achilles tendon. An effective prevention technique is to warm up and cool down for several minutes, and gradually increase the force of the running. Many people develop and suffer from plantar fasciitis, causing severe heel pain. It can occur from not stretching the calf muscles before running, and prevention can be increased when range of motion is expanded in the overall foot. An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments and tendons in the ankle become overstretched from rolling the ankle beyond its normal limitations. When the muscles are strengthened surrounding the ankle, the chance of incurring an ankle sprain may be decreased. If you would like more information about how running injuries affect the feet, and how to prevent them, please consult with a podiatrist.
All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Kevin Davis of Davis Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
How to Prevent Running Injuries
There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.
More Tips for Preventing Injury
- Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
- Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
- “Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
- Cross-Training is Crucial
- Wear Proper Running Shoes
- Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause injury
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Springfield, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Big Toe Fusion May Help Arthritic Patients
Patients who have arthritis in their big toe may find relief by having toe surgery performed. A big toe fusion can help relieve stiffness, swelling, and inflammation that often accompanies arthritis. Some of the benefits that are associated with this type of surgery include a general feeling of well-being, permanent reduction in big toe pain, and stability due to the use of screws, wires, pins, and metals. Additionally, wearing shoes will gradually become a comfortable experience. Some patients refrain from having this type of surgery performed. This may be because of the inability to push off with the big toe while taking a step and the nerves can be affected which may cause numbness. A condition that is referred to as a malunion occurs when the toe heals in the wrong position. Despite the cons of having this type of joint replacement surgery performed, many patients are satisfied with the result. If you have arthritis in your big toe, please confer with a podiatrist who can determine if this surgery is right for you.
In certain cases, in which the patient suffers from extreme pain or damage in a joint, joint replacement surgery may be deemed useful. If you have constant pain in a foot joint, consult with Dr. Kevin Davis from Davis Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Joint Replacement Surgery?
Over time, joints wear down; this can be exacerbated by diseases and conditions. Joint replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty, is when a damaged joint is surgically removed and replaced with a prosthesis. Prostheses, which can be made of ceramic, plastic, or metal, act as joints in lieu of an actual joint. One of the most prevalent causes for joint replacement is arthritis.
Arthritis in the Foot
Arthritis can occur in any joint in the body, including in the feet. Common types of arthritis in the foot are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. The big toe is usually where arthritis occurs in the foot; this is known as hallux rigidus.
Joint Replacement Surgery in the Foot
The most common form of joint replacement in the foot is a first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint placement. MTP joint replacement surgery is designed to treat hallux rigidus. Surgery is not intensive, and recovery occurs within one to two months after the procedure has been done. Overall, joint replacement surgery is a safe and effective way to treat pain in the joint of the foot.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Springfield, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Achilles Tendinopathy: A Common Sports Injury
The Achilles tendon attaches the heel bone with the calf muscles and helps make plantar flexion possible (bending your foot downward at the ankle). Tennis players, dancers, and runners in particular engage their Achilles tendon constantly, and can sometimes suffer an overuse injury known as Achilles tendinopathy. Achilles tendinopathy usually develops when tiny repeated injuries (micro-traumas) to the Achilles tendon occur and never fully or properly heal. This repeated wear and damage compounds over time and eventually causes the Achilles tendon to become swollen, stiff, and painful. Poor training habits can also be a precursor to Achilles tendinopathy, such as training on hard/sloped surfaces, using improper technique, wearing inadequate footwear, and increasing the intensity or frequency of your workouts too rapidly. If you believe you have Achilles tendinopathy, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist as soon as possible. A podiatrist can relieve your symptoms while helping to heal the Achilles tendon properly with various techniques and therapies, exercises, painkillers, orthotics, and more.
Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Dr. Kevin Davis of Davis Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries
Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Plantar Fasciosis
- Achilles Tendinitis
- Achilles Tendon Rupture
- Ankle Sprains
Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Springfield, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Do Your Child's Feet Hurt?
Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.
Ingrown Toenails in Children
Ingrown toenails or onychocryptosis is a common nail disorder that can affect children. With this condition, the toenail grows into the skin surrounding the nail. Since the nail cuts the skin, the area can become inflamed or irritated, and an infection may develop. Not only can the child feel pain when pressure is applied to the toenail, but it may also be painful to walk and participate in activities. An ingrown toenail is often the result of toenails being cut improperly or shoes that compress a child’s big toe. Other causes may be abnormalities in nail formation causing the toenail to grow inward instead of outward, a sports injury, or genetics. If your child has an ingrown toenail, especially if it appears infected or there is drainage, make an appointment with a podiatrist to have their foot checked and the proper treatment administered.
Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Dr. Kevin Davis of Davis Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...
Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.
Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.
Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.
As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’.
As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.
Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.
Be watchful for any pain or injury.
Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.
Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Springfield, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Several Reasons for Cuboid Syndrome to Occur
Patients that have cuboid syndrome often experience an injury that can lead to this condition. It occurs when the surrounding ligaments of the cuboid bone become inflamed, which can cause pain and discomfort. The cuboid bone is found on the outside of the foot, and is one of the seven tarsal bones. This foot condition can be common among athletes and ballet dancers, and can be the result of repetitive movement. The cuboid bone helps to stabilize the foot, and enables comfortable walking. Additionally, it aids in the ability to point and flex, and this is necessary in completing daily activities. It can become injured for a variety of reasons. These can include enduring a severe foot injury, having a sprained ankle, or possibly from running barefoot. People who are overweight or wear shoes that do not fit correctly may be prone to developing cuboid syndrome. Mild relief may be found when the affected foot is rested, and this may help to heal the tissues surrounding the cuboid bone. If you have pain on the outside of your foot, please schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat cuboid syndrome.
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 Dr. Kevin Davis from Davis Foot & Ankle Centers. 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 Springfield, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Ankle Fractures in Children
An ankle fracture in children involves at least one bone break in your child’s ankle. Common symptoms of an ankle fracture include pain, tenderness, swelling, bruising, and trouble moving or putting weight on the ankle or foot. This type of injury is diagnosed with an X-ray, ultrasound, CT, or MRI. A podiatrist will usually treat a child’s ankle break with a supportive device, such as a cast or brace, and crutches are often provided to help keep weight off the affected ankle. If the fracture is severe, surgery may be needed. Resting the ankle, applying ice, compressing, and elevating the ankle should all help in healing. If you think your child has a broken ankle, it is suggested you visit a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and a treatment plan that best suits your child’s injury.
Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Kevin Davis from Davis Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.
When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.
Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle
- Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
- Swelling around the area
- Bruising of the area
- Area appears to be deformed
If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Springfield, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Arthritis May Increase the Chances of Falling
Experts have found that people with osteoarthritis, which affects three or four joints, are 75 percent more likely to fall. It is thought that lack of mobility, as the result of pain, causes muscles to weaken, affects the gait, and throws off your balance. Also, certain medications may affect your stability. Ways to help prevent falls at home include removing loose wires, small rugs, and other clutter from floors and walkways. Place non-skid mats and grab bars in showers and tubs. Improve lighting in hallways, and install handrails on staircases inside and out. Taking vitamin D may help to increase muscle strength and reduce fall risks if you are deficient. Finally, wear shoes that fit properly and have non-skid soles. Avoid high heels, slippers, and leather-soled shoes that can be slippery or affect your balance. For further guidance, please consult a podiatrist about specific measures that can be taken to keep you on your feet safely.
Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Dr. Kevin Davis from Davis Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.
Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.
How to Prevent Falls
Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:
- Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
- Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
- Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
- Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
- Utilizing a walker or cane
- Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
- Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness
Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Springfield, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Seniors and Falls
Everyone can stumble but older people have a higher propensity to falling. In fact, one in four seniors fall each year and the chances of falling double after falling once. Falls can be serious and cause broken bones or a head injury. They can greatly interfere with one’s ability to function and do so independently. Even if a fall is avoided, an older person can become fearful of falls and limit their participation in daily activities. This can further lead to weakness and increased chances of falling. Physical conditions that can make one more prone to falling include lower body weakness, vitamin D deficiency, difficulty with walking or balance, use of certain medications, vision problems, and foot pain. Other issues that lead to a greater risk of falls are poorly fitting footwear or home hazards, such as broken or uneven steps or throw rugs that can be tripped over. Tending to physical and other conditions, getting regular strength and balance exercise, and seeing a podiatrist for evaluation of risk for falling can help as well. As one ages, regular visits to a podiatrist are encouraged as a preventative health measure.
Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Dr. Kevin Davis from Davis Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.
Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.
How to Prevent Falls
Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:
- Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
- Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
- Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
- Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
- Utilizing a walker or cane
- Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
- Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness
Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Springfield, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Wounds That Don't Heal Need to Be Checked
Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.
