Selecting the right footwear is essential for healing a foot stress fracture and preventing further injury. Opt for shoes that provide ample cushioning and support to reduce impact and distribute weight evenly across the foot. Look for options with a rigid midsole that offers stability and minimizes excessive movement, which can aggravate the fracture. Avoid high heels and shoes with a narrow toe box, as these can place additional stress on the foot and hinder recovery. Additionally, shoes with adjustable closures or custom orthotics can help accommodate swelling and offer a better fit. Prioritizing comfort and support over style is important during the healing process to ensure proper recovery and prevent future complications. If you have endured a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you correct relief and treatment methods, which can include what type of shoes to wear for optimal healing.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from APEX Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Myers, Cypress Cove, Shellpoint, Naples, and Carlisle, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Recovering from foot and ankle injuries often involves practicing targeted foot stretches to regain strength and flexibility. Ankle pump ups and downs are effective in improving circulation and range of motion by gently flexing and extending the ankle. Bent knee wall stretches help stretch the calf muscles and Achilles tendon, promoting flexibility and reducing stiffness. Toe pick ups strengthen the muscles in the toes and arch of the foot, enhancing overall foot stability. These exercises should be performed gradually and consistently to prevent re-injury and promote healing. Starting with gentle movements and gradually increasing intensity helps rebuild strength without exacerbating pain or discomfort. If you have sprained your ankle or have endured any other type of ankle injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat the condition, and guide you toward effective recovery stretches.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from APEX Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctors to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Myers, Cypress Cove, Shellpoint, Naples, and Carlisle, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is a common issue for individuals with type 2 diabetes, with nearly half experiencing this complication. This condition arises when prolonged high blood sugar levels cause damage to the nerves, especially in the feet and lower legs. Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy include numbness, tingling, burning sensations, and muscle weakness, which can progressively disrupt daily activities. A significant concern is “diabetic foot,” where the loss of feeling and poor blood flow can lead to ulcers, infections, and in severe cases loss of limb. Diabetic neuropathy also can increase the risk of falls and fractures due to lack of sensation in the feet, impaired balance and reduced coordination. Factors such as smoking, high blood pressure, obesity, and cholesterol issues can further increase the risk of developing this diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Early detection and proper management are of extreme importance. If you notice unusual sensations in your feet or lower legs, especially persistent numbness or pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can conduct a thorough examination and recommend a personalized treatment plan. 

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with one of our podiatrists from APEX Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Myers, Cypress Cove, Shellpoint, Naples, and Carlisle, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete's foot, medically known as tinea pedis, has a history dating back centuries. Its first documented mention dates to ancient Egypt, where papyrus scrolls described skin infections resembling the symptoms of modern-day athlete's foot. However, it was not until the 20th century that the condition garnered significant attention. The rise of urbanization, the use of closed shoes with socks that retained moisture, and the increased use of communal bathing facilities during the early 1900s contributed to the widespread occurrence of athlete's foot. Additionally, the damp and unsanitary conditions prevalent during World Wars I and II facilitated its rapid spread among soldiers in trenches and barracks. Despite advancements in hygiene and healthcare, athlete's foot remains a prevalent issue today. The fungus thrives in warm, moist environments such as locker rooms and swimming pools. If left untreated, it can lead to discomfort, itching, and skin breakdown. If you think you have athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for guidance in managing this condition.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from APEX Foot & Ankle Center.  Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Myers, Cypress Cove, Shellpoint, Naples, and Carlisle, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Surgery for ingrown toenails is aimed at providing relief and preventing future issues. When conservative treatments fail, a minor surgical intervention can become necessary. During the procedure, a doctor numbs the toe and removes part or all of the affected nail. This process helps to eliminate the pain and inflammation caused by the ingrown nail. After surgery, keeping the area clean and dry is essential to prevent infection. Pain and swelling are usually minimal, and pain relievers can help to manage any discomfort. Most patients can return to their normal activities within a few days, though wearing loose-fitting or open-toed shoes is recommended to avoid pressure on the toe. Proper post-surgical care, including regular follow-up visits, ensures a smooth recovery and reduces the risk of recurrence. If you have an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you make an appointment with your podiatrist to determine if surgery is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of APEX Foot & Ankle Center. 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 Fort Myers, Cypress Cove, Shellpoint, Naples, and Carlisle, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.