Skating is a beloved activity for many, but foot and ankle injuries can hinder both enjoyment and performance. Improperly fitted skates often lead to corns, calluses, bunions, and bunionettes, causing discomfort and negatively affecting skating ability. Additionally, ankle pain and weakness are prevalent among skaters, making them susceptible to sprains and overuse injuries like Achilles tendonitis. Skaters with biomechanical imbalances, such as flat feet or high arches, are at further risk of developing plantar fasciitis and heel pain. One way to avoid these issues involves wearing properly fitting footwear and attentive foot care. Investing in well-fitted skates and footwear tailored to individual foot needs is essential. Plus, seeking prompt treatment for persistent foot pain from a podiatrist ensures optimal skating performance and long-term foot health. By taking proactive measures to prevent injury, skaters can continue enjoying their favorite activity without discomfort or limitations. If you have skating-related foot or ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.
Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Dr. James D. McAlexander from Gig Harbor Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Common Injuries
The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:
Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles Tendon Rupture
Ankle Sprains
Broken Foot
Plantar Fasciitis
Stress Fractures
Turf Toe
Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.
Treatment
Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Gig Harbor, WA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Usually, toes point forward. When one of your toes (usually the 2nd or 3rd toe) bends downward, hammertoe is present. There are many reasons you may develop a hammertoe, such as having bunions, certain injuries, high arches, or you may have a genetic proclivity that makes you more likely to develop them. However, the most common reason hammertoe develops is from wearing shoes that are too tight and pointy, which cause your toes to squeeze together if you wear them for a prolonged period of time. You can help avoid developing a hammertoe by choosing shoes that fit properly, have a wider toe box, soft uppers, and plenty of arch support. Contact a podiatrist who can treat your hammertoe and may suggest certain footwear that will help prevent hammertoes from occurring.
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.
Symptoms
Pain in the affected toes
Development of corns or calluses due to friction
Inflammation
Redness
Contracture of the toes
Causes
Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible
Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur
Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe
Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe
Treatment
Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it
Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used
Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Gig Harbor, WA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Football places intense strain on the feet and ankles, and the push-off forces used for sprinting or sudden direction changes can damage the thick tendon behind the heel. The Achilles tendon, which links the calf muscles to the heel bone, allows a player to jump, run, and accelerate. Quick bursts of speed, tackling, and uneven fields increase tension in this tendon, making a tear more likely, especially when a player lands awkwardly or the ankle twists. A rupture causes sharp pain, swelling, and difficulty standing on the toes. A podiatrist can assess the tendon, order imaging, discuss footwear that provides support, and recommend treatment such as bracing, therapy guided exercises, or surgery when needed to restore strength and mobility. If you have Achilles tendon pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and safe, sterile treatment.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. James D. McAlexander of Gig Harbor Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is the Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.
What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?
There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.
Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms
Inflammation
Dull to severe pain
Increased blood flow to the tendon
Thickening of the tendon
Rupture Symptoms
Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
Total immobility
Treatment and Prevention
Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:
Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Gig Harbor, WA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!
When the foot lies completely on the floor while standing barefoot, it may indicate a condition known as pes planus, or flat feet. The gap that is normally found between the arch and floor is nonexistent, which may affect the natural gait. Flat feet can occur from genetic reasons or possibly from an injury. In addition, certain medical conditions may cause flat feet to develop. These include cerebral palsy, diabetes, or obesity, which may affect the nerves. Symptoms typically associated with flat feet include pain in the heel and arch area, foot fatigue, and difficulty stand for long periods. A podiatrist can prescribe custom orthotics for arch support, along with stretches that can help to strengthen the feet. If you have flat feet that are causing problems, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a exam and treatment options.
Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.
Conditions & Problems:
Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.
Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.
Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.
Symptoms
Pain around the heel or arch area
Trouble standing on the tip toe
Swelling around the inside of the ankle
Flat look to one or both feet
Having your shoes feel uneven when worn
Treatment
If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Gig Harbor, WA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
A dislocated ankleoccurs when the talus, the main ankle bone, is pushed out of place from under the tibia and fibula, which are the bones of the lower leg. This sudden shift causes sharp pain, swelling, and a foot that looks out of alignment. The injury also affects the ligaments that hold the ankle steady, as well as nearby joints where the talus meets the calcaneus, or heel bone. A podiatrist can check the position of the foot, make sure blood flow and feeling in the toes are normal, and use imaging to see if any nearby bones have been damaged. Treatment focuses on gently guiding the talus back into place and keeping the ankle immobile so healing can start. Surgery may be considered when there are fractures or if the ankle remains unstable. If you believe you have dislocated your ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.
Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. James D. McAlexander from Gig Harbor Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.
Causes
The most common causes of ankle pain include:
Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
Ankle sprains
Broken ankles
Achilles tendonitis
Achilles tendon rupture
Stress fractures
Bursitis
Tarsal tunnel syndrome
Plantar fasciitis
Symptoms
Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.
Diagnosis
Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Gig Harbor, WA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Morning foot pain can make getting out of bed uncomfortable and may signal an underlying issue in the feet or ankles. One frequent reason involves the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue along the sole that tightens during rest. When stretched suddenly upon standing, it can cause sharp heel or arch pain. Arthritis is another cause, leading to stiff, inflamed joints that feel worse after inactivity. Reduced blood flow at night can also slow the removal of waste products like uric acid, causing aching or throbbing feet. Swelling and fluid buildup during rest may add to discomfort, especially in people who stand for long periods during the day. Wearing high heels, flip-flops, or tight shoes can place extra stress on tendons and joints, worsening morning stiffness. A podiatrist can identify the cause through an exam and imaging if needed. If you experience morning foot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. James D. McAlexander from Gig Harbor Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our doctor 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)
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 office located in Gig Harbor, WA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Rheumatoid arthritis can cause inflammation that damages the joints in the feet, leading to visible disfigurements and pain. Over time, the immune system attacks the lining of the joints, weakening soft tissues and causing bones to shift out of place. This may result in toes drifting toward one side, collapsed arches, bunion formation, or claw-like deformities. These changes often make walking difficult and finding comfortable shoes challenging. Early treatment helps slow joint damage and reduce discomfort. Supportive footwear, custom orthotics, and anti-inflammatory medications can relieve pressure and improve stability. In advanced cases, surgical correction may be needed to restore function and alignment. If you suffer from painful rheumatoid arthritis in your feet, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for effective relief options.
Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact Dr. James D. McAlexander of Gig Harbor Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.
Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet
Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.
Symptoms
Swelling and pain in the feet
Stiffness in the feet
Pain on the ball or sole of feet
Joint shift and deformation
Diagnosis
Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Gig Harbor, WA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Usually, toes point forward. When one of your toes (usually the 2nd or 3rd toe) bends downward, hammertoe is present. There are many reasons you may develop a hammertoe, such as having bunions, certain injuries, high arches, or you may have a genetic proclivity that makes you more likely to develop them. However, the most common reason hammertoe develops is from wearing shoes that are too tight and pointy, which cause your toes to squeeze together if you wear them for a prolonged period of time. You can help avoid developing a hammertoe by choosing shoes that fit properly, have a wider toe box, soft uppers, and plenty of arch support. Contact a podiatrist who can treat your hammertoe and may suggest certain footwear that will help prevent hammertoes from occurring.
When the foot lies completely on the floor while standing barefoot, it may indicate a condition known as pes planus, or flat feet. The gap that is normally found between the arch and floor is nonexistent, which may affect the natural gait. Flat feet can occur from genetic reasons or possibly from an injury. In addition, certain medical conditions may cause flat feet to develop. These include cerebral palsy, diabetes, or obesity, which may affect the nerves. Symptoms typically associated with flat feet include pain in the heel and arch area, foot fatigue, and difficulty stand for long periods. A podiatrist can prescribe custom orthotics for arch support, along with stretches that can help to strengthen the feet. If you have flat feet that are causing problems, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a exam and treatment options.
