Aftercare for a Foot Fracture
A foot fracture can be a painful and distressing experience, disrupting daily life and mobility. However, the journey to recovery does not end with the diagnosis and proper aftercare is paramount. Immobilization, typically through a cast, splint, or walking boot, is essential to stabilize the foot and promote healing. Elevating the foot can help to reduce swelling and promote circulation. Pain management, as prescribed by a healthcare professional, ensures comfort during the healing process. Getting adequate rest is essential, and avoiding putting weight on the injured foot is advised. As healing progresses, gentle exercises can aid in regaining strength and mobility. Following your podiatrist's recommendations and attending follow-up appointments are vital for a smooth recovery. Patience, care, and adherence to the prescribed aftercare regimen are key to returning to normal activities with a healed foot. If you have broken your foot, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can guide you toward the correct recovery plan that is right for you.
A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Princeton Foot and Ankle Associates. 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 Princeton, and West Windsor, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment for a Broken Foot
The human foot has 26 different bones, and the foot is divided into three parts: the hindfoot, the midfoot, and the forefoot. Each section of the foot is composed of a different amount of bones. For instance, the forefoot is made up of 19 bones. The midfoot is composed of five smaller bones called the navicular, cuboid, and three cuneiform bones. Lastly, the hindfoot is made up of only the talus and the calcaneus. The feet tend to be vulnerable to slipping and twisting; consequently, fractured bones within the foot are common. When a bone gets crushed, bent, twisted, or stretched it may become broken.
Many foot fractures occur through an accident or trauma. More specifically, common causes for broken feet are car accidents, falls, missteps, or overuse. If you have a broken ankle or foot, you may have one or more of the following symptoms: throbbing pain, swelling, bruising, tenderness, deformities, and difficulty walking.
There are some factors that may put you at a higher risk of developing a broken foot. People who participate in high-impact sports are more likely to develop foot fractures because of the stresses, direct blows, and twisting injuries involved in gameplay. Additionally, those who suddenly increase their activity level are more likely to suffer a stress fracture.
Unfortunately, there are different complications that may arise because of a foot fracture. For instance, arthritis may be caused by fractures that extend into the joints. Bone infections are also possible in open fractures due to the bone being exposed to bacteria. However, there are ways you can help prevent yourself from breaking your foot. One way to avoid fractures is to wear proper footwear. If you plan on going on a run, you should wear running shoes. You should also replace your shoes if you notice that they are becoming worn out. For runners, it is best to replace shoes every 300 to 400 miles.
Treatment for foot fractures usually consists of rest, ice, elevation, and compression (RICE). If you plan on wrapping your foot, try not to wrap it too tightly because doing so may cut off blood supply in the foot. You should also avoid walking on the fractured foot.
If you suspect you have a broken foot, you should see your podiatrist right away. It is important that you have someone bring you to your doctor, since driving with a broken foot can be dangerous. You should especially seek urgent care if you are experiencing numbness, pain, or deformities in your foot.
Common Causes of Foot Pain in Seniors
Foot pain is a common complaint among seniors, affecting approximately 20 percent of older adults regularly. Among the most common causes of foot pain in seniors are stress fractures, heel pain, diabetic neuropathy, gout, and blood clots. Seniors are more susceptible to stress fractures due to age-related changes in bone density. Stress fractures are tiny cracks in bones that typically manifest as pain during activity, but subside with rest. Plantar fasciitis, characterized by irritation and inflammation of the plantar fascia ligament on the sole of the foot, can cause persistent heel pain. Diabetes frequently leads to neuropathy, which causes tingling, burning, or numbness in the feet. Regular foot monitoring and care are essential for individuals with diabetes to prevent complications. A podiatrist can help manage conditions such as corns, calluses, and nail care. Gout, a form of inflammatory arthritis, typically affects the big toe. Sudden and severe pain, especially at night, may indicate gout. Blood tests or joint fluid analysis can confirm the diagnosis. Deep vein thrombosis, or a blood clot, is often associated with leg swelling and pain, but it can also cause sudden and severe pain in the ankle or foot. Seniors, especially those who smoke, are overweight, or are sedentary, may be at a higher risk. If you are experiencing foot or ankle pain that persists or worsens, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment options.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Princeton Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
The Elderly and Their Feet
As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.
Common Conditions
- Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
- Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
- Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
- Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
- Shoes that don’t fit properly
- Pressure sores
- Loss of circulation in legs & feet
- Edema & swelling of feet and ankles
Susceptible Infections
Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Princeton, and West Windsor, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Many foot diseases and conditions become more serious and common among the elderly. Some of these conditions include diabetic ulcers, ingrown toenails, fungus, arthritis, corns, and calluses. Unfortunately, it may be harder for older adults to take care of their own feet, but there are some precautions they can take in order to avoid any serious conditions.
Dry, cracked heels tend to be a common problem for older people. In order to avoid this, you should always keep your feet clean and well moisturized. Special feet moisturizers should be used as average lotions might not provide enough moisture for dry and cracked heels. Daily foot inspections are crucial for the elderly to detect any irregularities in their earliest stages. During the aging process, blood circulation tends to slow down causing older people to not feel their feet as well as they used to. This often results in foot problems going unnoticed.
Fungal and bacterial conditions thrive on elderly feet because older adults are less likely to keep their feet clean and dry; this makes it easier for bacteria to take hold in their dry, cracked skin. Elderly people should be sure to thoroughly dry their feet, especially in between the toes, after bathing. This will help them avoid developing any fungal infections. Additionally, clean cotton socks should be worn after the feet are dried.
Cutting toenails straight across will help prevent ingrown toenails. When toenails are cut too lose, the nail might break through the skin resulting in an ingrown nail. Clippers should be used to cut the nails in order to make the cut even.
Elderly people who have diabetes are at risk of developing serious foot problems that may lead to amputation. Ulcers that are left untreated can lead to gangrene. Dry and cracked feet, fungus, and untended cuts under the nails may also lead to infections.
Fortunately, Medicare covers many different types of services for foot care. Elderly people with any of these foot conditions should seek the help of a podiatrist and perform daily foot inspections in order to ensure that they have healthy feet.
Arthritis Can Cause Pain in the Feet and Ankles
If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.
Alternative Therapies for Non-Healing Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Maggot therapy, also known as Maggot Debridement Therapy, MDT, or Larval therapy, has a long history in medicine and has gained recent recognition for its unique ability to save limbs. This biotherapy involves placing disinfected maggots, often the larvae of the greenbottle blowfly, on wounds, such as diabetic foot ulcers, to debride necrotic tissues. It is particularly effective when antibiotics fail to combat bacterial infections in non-healing wounds, potentially preventing limb amputations. Maggots work by secreting special enzymes, which break down necrotic tissue, making it easier to digest and absorb. They also produce antibiotic-like agents and release ammonia to inhibit bacterial growth in the wound. Administration involves placing sterile maggots within a dressing on the wound for 48 to 72 hours. This therapy has broad applications, including diabetic ulcers, vascular ulcers, pressure ulcers, and even malignant wounds. Studies have shown that maggot therapy accelerates wound healing, reduces necrotic tissue, and decreases wound odor. While this therapy is highly effective, it should not be used for wounds near vital organs or blood vessels and in septic patients. Additional research can further expand the applications of this therapy, however, it saves 40 to 50 percent of limbs when used as a last resort. If you have a non-healing diabetic foot wound and would like alternative treatments for healing, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss this further.
Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with one of our podiatrists from Princeton Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Wound Care?
Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic.
What Is the Importance of Wound Care?
While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.
How to Care for Wounds
The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Princeton, and West Windsor, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Wound Care
Diabetics must be wary of all wounds, regardless of depth or size. Diabetes, a chronic disease in which the body cannot properly use glucose the way it normally would, causes various complications that make wounds difficult to heal. Nerve damage or neuropathy will cause diabetics to have trouble feeling the pain of a blister or cut until the condition has significantly worsened or become infected. A diabetic’s weakened immune system can make even the most minor of wounds easily susceptible to infection. Diabetics are also more prone to developing narrow, clogged arteries, and are therefore more likely to develop wounds.
Wounds should be taken care of immediately after discovery, as even the smallest of wounds can become infected if enough bacteria build up within the wound. To remove dirt, wounds should be first rinsed under running water only. Soap, hydrogen peroxide, or iodine can irritate the injury and should be avoided. To prevent infection, apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover it with a bandage. The bandage should be changed daily. The skin around the wound may be cleaned with soap.
To prevent further exacerbation, see a doctor—especially if you have diabetes. Minor skin conditions can become larger problems if not properly inspected. As the wound heals, make sure to avoid applying pressure to the affected area.
Do Not Ignore Ingrown Toenails
Even if it does not cause pain, it is recommended that one does not ignore an ingrown toenail. Ingrown toenails happen when the corner or side of the toenail grows into the surrounding flesh, leading to pain, discomfort, inflammation, and sometimes infection. Initially a minor annoyance, untreated ingrown toenails can escalate into a recurring and serious issue. Treatment methods depend on the ingrown toenail's severity, the presence of infection, and previous treatments that were attempted. Routine podiatry care, including toenail trimming and addressing underlying issues, can help prevent infected ingrown toenails. Options range from daily foot soaking and antibiotics to more invasive nail avulsion procedures, which involve removing the affected toenail. If you have an ingrown toenail, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.
Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Princeton Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.
Causes
- Improper toenail trimming
- Genetics
- Improper shoe fitting
- Injury from pedicures or nail picking
- Abnormal gait
- Poor hygiene
You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.
Symptoms
Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.
Treatment
Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Princeton, and West Windsor, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Ingrown Toenail Care
An ingrown toenail is a nail that has curved downward and grows into the skin. This typically occurs at the nail borders, or the sides of the nail. As a result, pain, redness, swelling, and warmth may occur in the toe. If a break in the skin forms due to the ingrown nail, bacteria may enter and cause an infection in the area; this is typically characterized by a foul odor and drainage.
Ingrown toenails have multiple reasons for developing. In many instances, the condition is a result of genetics and is inherited. The most common cause, however, is improper trimming; cutting the toenails too short forces the skin beside the nail to fold over. An ingrown toenail can also develop due to trauma, such as stubbing the toe, having an object fall on the toe, or participating in activities that involve repeated kicking or running. Wearing shoes that are too tight or too short can also cause ingrown toenails.
Treatment for an ingrown toenail varies between patients and the severity of the condition. Milder cases that don’t involve infection or other medical conditions can benefit from soaking the feet in room-temperature water and gently massaging the side of the nail. In most cases, however, it is best to see your podiatrist for thorough and proper treatment. After examining your toe, your podiatrist may prescribe oral antibiotics to clear the infection if one is present. Surgical removal of either a portion of the nail or the entire nail may also be considered. In some cases, complete removal or destruction of the nail root may be required. Most patients who undergo nail surgery experience minimal pain afterward and can return to normal activity the following day.
Ingrown toenails can be prevented with proper nail trimming and by avoiding improper-fitting shoes. When cutting the toenails, be sure that you are cutting in a straight line and avoid cutting them too short. Shoes should not be too short or tight in the toe box.
Extensor Tendonitis
Extensor tendonitis in the feet can occur due to overuse, resulting in pain and discomfort. Extensor tendons play crucial roles in the movement of toes but are vulnerable to injuries. Foot extensor tendonitis typically presents as pain on the top of the foot, often affecting one foot more than the other. It can weaken the tendons, affecting toe movement and push-off ability. Common causes of this condition include wearing tight shoes and running excessively. Diagnosis involves having physical exams and, in some cases, imaging tests such as X-rays, ultrasounds, or an MRI. Treatment includes rest, stretching, and strengthening exercises. Steroid injections may be necessary for severe cases, with surgery reserved for rare instances. Recovery times can vary. Proper care and prevention can effectively manage extensor tendonitis, allowing a return to regular activities. If you think you may have this affliction, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Princeton Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Causes Toe Pain?
Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.
Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
- Trauma
- Sports injury
- Wearing shoes that are too tight
- Arthritis
- Gout
- Corns and calluses
- Hammertoe
- Bunions
- Blisters
- Ingrown toenails
- Sprains
- Fractures (broken bones)
- Dislocations
When to See a Podiatrist
- Severe pain
- Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
- Signs of infection
- Continued swelling
- Pain that prevents walking
Diagnosis
In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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
Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Princeton, and West Windsor, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
