Tuesday, 04 February 2025 00:00

Fractures of the fifth metatarsal occur in various forms, depending on the location and cause of the break. The fifth metatarsal is a long bone located on the outer edge of the foot, connecting the midfoot to the base of the pinky toe. It plays an important role in maintaining balance, supporting weight, and enabling movement during activities such as walking, running, and jumping. Avulsion fractures, the most frequent type, happen when a tendon pulls a small piece of bone off the base of the fifth metatarsal. Dancer’s fractures, caused by twisting injuries, involve a diagonal break along the bone’s shaft. Stress fractures, resulting from repetitive activities like running, develop gradually and often affect the shaft or neck. Head and neck fractures of the 5th metatarsal typically occur from direct trauma to the bone. A podiatrist can use imaging tests to determine the type of fracture you have sustained. For guidance with a fractured foot bone, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Evan Young, DPM from Trinity Foot & Ankle . Our doctor 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 office located in Trinity, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment for a Broken Foot
Wednesday, 29 January 2025 00:00

Neuropathy is a condition that can lead to numbness or loss of sensation in the feet, but it can also cause pain. This condition is more likely to develop for those who are diabetic, obese, or with high blood pressure.

Tuesday, 28 January 2025 00:00

Proper foot care is essential for maintaining overall health in seniors. As people age, foot health can significantly impact mobility, balance, and quality of life. Regular foot care helps prevent common issues such as bunions, corns, calluses, and ingrown toenails, which can lead to pain and discomfort. Neglecting foot health can also contribute to more serious conditions like infections or falls, which can be particularly dangerous for elderly people. Seniors should focus on cleaning and moisturizing their feet regularly to prevent dryness and cracks. It is also important to trim toenails carefully to avoid ingrown nails and infections. Wearing well-fitting shoes that provide adequate support can prevent many foot problems. Additionally, paying attention to circulation and checking for signs of conditions like diabetes is vital. If you are a senior and have foot or ankle pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can effectively treat various foot conditions, and guide you on additional foot care tips.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Evan Young, DPM from Trinity Foot & Ankle . Our doctor 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 office located in Trinity, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Elderly and their Feet
Tuesday, 21 January 2025 00:00

Bathrooms are one of the most common places where seniors experience falls due to slippery surfaces, limited space, and poor balance. Key risk areas include the shower or bathtub, where wet floors and awkward stepping increase fall likelihood. Toilet areas can also pose risks, especially when sitting down or standing up without support. To reduce these hazards, install grab bars near the toilet, shower, and bathtub. Non-slip mats inside and outside the tub can provide added stability. Adequate lighting and removing loose rugs can enhance safety. Seniors should wear non-slip footwear when using the bathroom. If you incur a fall, especially one resulting in foot or ankle pain, swelling, or difficulty walking it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment. 

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 Evan Young, DPM from Trinity Foot & Ankle . 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 Trinity, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Falls Prevention

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