A foot stress fracture is a small crack in the bone caused by repetitive stress rather than a single traumatic event. It often develops over time and is common among athletes and individuals who suddenly increase their activity level. Risk factors include wearing poor footwear, weakened bones, and high-impact sports. Causes may involve overuse, improper training, or biomechanical issues. Symptoms include localized pain, swelling, tenderness, and discomfort during activity. A podiatrist can confirm the diagnosis through imaging tests, recommend rest, footwear changes, and possibly immobilization to ensure proper healing. If you have persistent foot pain that worsens with activity, it is suggested that you promptly schedule a visit with a podiatrist to receive expert care and prevent complications.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Richard Galperin, DPM from Texas. Our doctor 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 feel free to contact our office located in Dallas, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis involves inflammation of the thick band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot. It often results from repetitive stress or strain on the plantar fascia. Causes include standing for long periods of time, wearing shoes with inadequate support, or engaging in high-impact activities. Risk factors include obesity, flat feet, high arches, and tight calf muscles. Symptoms typically involve sharp heel pain, especially with the first steps in the morning. A podiatrist can help by providing a thorough exam, prescribing custom orthotics and stretching exercises, and offering guidance on proper footwear. If heel pain is affecting your daily life, it is suggested that you promptly schedule a visit with a podiatrist to start your path to relief.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Richard Galperin, DPM from Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Dallas, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetes can lead to a range of foot complications, including nerve damage, poor circulation, and pressure-related skin breakdown. These issues increase the risk of ulcers and infections. Custom orthotics play an important role in managing diabetic foot conditions by reducing pressure on vulnerable areas, improving foot alignment, and enhancing overall comfort. They help prevent skin irritation and promote even weight distribution during walking. A podiatrist can evaluate the foot structure, assess risk factors, and design orthotics tailored to individual needs. Regular monitoring and expert care are essential to preventing complications and maintaining foot health. If you are living with diabetes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to explore how custom orthotics can help protect your feet and support your long-term well-being.

If you are experiencing discomfort in your feet and would like to try custom orthotics, contact Richard Galperin, DPM from Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Custom Orthotics?

Custom orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain. 

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Shoe inserts come in a wide variety and are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality, custom inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you're experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibility of using custom orthotics or shoe inserts. A podiatrist can determine which type of custom orthotic or shoe insert is right for you and help you take the first steps toward being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Dallas, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot problems are a common but often overlooked reason why older adults may be at higher risk of falling. Conditions such as bunions, hammertoes, arthritis, or nerve pain can affect balance and stability. Thick or curved toenails, poor circulation, and loss of sensation in the feet may also lead to unsteady walking. Wearing ill-fitting shoes or worn-out soles can make the problem worse by limiting support or grip. Many older adults adjust how they walk to avoid pain, which can throw off posture and increase the chance of tripping. Regular foot care, comfortable footwear, and addressing pain early can help reduce this risk. If walking feels uncertain or there has been a recent fall, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist to assess foot health and explore ways to improve safety and confidence when moving around.

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 Richard Galperin, DPM from Texas. 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 Dallas, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.