Many patients can incur a stress fracture by participating in repetitive activities that can weaken the bones. The metatarsal bones are a common area in the foot where this type of injury can happen. These are the bones that connect the ankle to the toes and undergo stress as everyday activities are performed. Additionally, a stress fracture can occur in runners that increase speed and distance too soon, and it may possibly help to warm up and cool down before and after the activity is performed. The pain in the affected area may gradually diminish, but generally returns as the chosen exercise is performed. Relief can be found when the foot can rest, and this typically involves stopping the movement that caused the injury. If you have endured a stress fracture, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can offer you the best treatment options.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot & Ankle Care Centers. 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 Nashville, Smyrna, Spring Hill, Columbia, Dickson, Fairview, Hohenwald, TN and Midtown, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Flat feet occur when the arches collapse and the entire sole touches the ground, which can lead to pain, fatigue, and changes in walking mechanics. Some individuals benefit from surgery when conservative care is not enough. Surgical correction can improve alignment and reduce chronic pain, but it also requires recovery time and carries risks such as stiffness or incomplete relief. A podiatrist can evaluate your feet, recommend orthotics and supportive footwear, and discuss whether surgery is an appropriate option for your condition. Taking action early can prevent long-term problems. If you have discomfort from flat feet, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can discuss viable treatment options with you, which may include surgery to restore comfort and mobility.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Foot & Ankle Care Centers. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Nashville, Smyrna, Spring Hill, Columbia, Dickson, Fairview, Hohenwald, TN and Midtown, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition that develops when the tissue around a nerve between the toes thickens, often due to pressure from tight shoes, high heels, or repetitive impact activities. It may look subtle from the outside, but many people feel a sharp, burning, or tingling sensation in the ball of the foot that can radiate into the toes. Some describe the feeling as standing on a pebble or having a fold in the sock that will not smooth out. Swelling is sometimes present, although it is not always visible. Morton’s neuroma most commonly occurs between the third and fourth toes, likely because this area experiences the greatest compression during walking. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition through a physical exam, gait evaluation, and imaging if needed. Treatment options may include footwear modifications, custom orthotics, anti-inflammatory therapies, or targeted injections to reduce nerve irritation. If you experience persistent forefoot pain or numbness, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Foot & Ankle Care Centers. 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 Nashville, Smyrna, Spring Hill, Columbia, Dickson, Fairview, Hohenwald, TN and Midtown, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

As people age, foot strength and stability play a major role in balance and mobility. Weakness in the toes and ankles can make walking less steady, increasing the risk of slips or falls. Many older adults also wear shoes that do not fit properly or lack support, further compromising safety. Strengthening the feet through simple exercises and choosing footwear designed for stability can make a significant difference in maintaining independence. Podiatrists can assess foot function, recommend balance-improving footwear, and design targeted exercise programs to build strength in the toes and arches. These steps are especially important when combined with care from other health professionals to support overall movement and confidence. If you have noticed changes in your balance or foot strength, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an evaluation and personalized care.

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 Advanced Foot & Ankle Care Centers. 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 Nashville, Smyrna, Spring Hill, Columbia, Dickson, Fairview, Hohenwald, TN and Midtown, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.