Stress fractures can be common among athletes. They can happen as a result of the consistent pressure that the bones of the feet endure during the athlete’s chosen sport. Stress fractures are defined as small, hairline fractures in the bones which may make walking and running difficult. Common symptoms can include pain surrounding the affected bone, which may improve when the foot is resting and elevated. Some patients experience bruising and swelling, accompanied by achiness. Additionally, stress fractures may gradually develop as a result of wearing shoes that do not fit properly, and this may weaken the foot bones. If you have pain in your foot, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat stress fractures. 

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our specialists from Dr. Lee S. Cohen Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Marlton, NJ and Ridley Park, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Poor circulation in the feet can cause coldness, numbness, swelling, and fatigue that make daily movement uncomfortable. Improving blood flow begins with simple habits that encourage the vessels to work more efficiently. Regular movement helps tremendously, even gentle activities like walking, ankle rotations, or stretching throughout the day. These actions activate the muscles that naturally push blood back toward the heart. Warm water foot soaks can also provide temporary comfort by relaxing tight tissues. Wearing shoes that fit well, avoiding long periods of sitting or standing, and elevating your feet while resting can further support healthier flow. People who smoke, have diabetes, or live with vascular concerns may notice circulation improves when these underlying issues are better managed. Compression socks can be useful for some individuals, but they are not right for everyone. If you experience persistent coldness, color changes, or slow-healing wounds on your feet, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an evaluation and tailored care.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our specialists of Dr. Lee S. Cohen Associates. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness 
• Numbness or cramping in the legs
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

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 Marlton, NJ and Ridley Park, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is caused by compression of the posterior tibial nerve as it travels through the tarsal tunnel, a narrow passageway in the ankle. This tunnel, similar to the carpal tunnel in the wrist, allows tendons, nerves, and blood vessels to reach the foot. When the nerve is compressed, motor function can be affected, leading to weakness of the intrinsic foot muscles and difficulty with normal movement. Symptoms may include burning, tingling, numbness, or sharp pain along the ankle or bottom of the foot. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition, relieve pressure on the nerve, and improve function through custom orthotics, and targeted treatment. If you have any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment and relief solutions.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact one of our specialists of Dr. Lee S. Cohen Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Marlton, NJ and Ridley Park, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Gout is a form of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to sudden, severe pain and inflammation. It most commonly affects the big toe because uric acid crystals form more easily in cooler areas of the body, such as the extremities. The pain is often described as distinctive and unlike anything felt before, with redness, swelling, and tenderness so intense that even light touch can be unbearable. A podiatrist can confirm the diagnosis, recommend dietary and lifestyle changes, prescribe medication to reduce inflammation, and provide long-term management strategies. If you have developed gout, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can guide you in dealing with this often debilitating condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our specialists from Dr. Lee S. Cohen Associates. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Marlton, NJ and Ridley Park, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition that affects the ball of the foot, most commonly between the third and fourth toes. It occurs when the tissue surrounding a nerve becomes thickened due to irritation or compression. It is often caused by wearing tight shoes, high heels, or engaging in repetitive activities that put pressure on the forefoot. Symptoms include sharp, burning pain, numbness, tingling, or the sensation of standing on a pebble. The affected area may look normal but can feel tender or sensitive to touch. Walking or standing for long periods of time often increases the pain. A podiatrist can diagnose Morton’s neuroma through a physical examination and imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or MRI scan, to confirm nerve involvement. Treatment options include footwear modifications, anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroid injections, and, in some cases, surgery. Early intervention can prevent worsening symptoms. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is   suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat Morton's neuroma. 

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our specialists of Dr. Lee S. Cohen Associates. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Marlton, NJ and Ridley Park, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.