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How to Tell If Your Foot Is Broken

A fractured  foot means that one or more bones in your foot have cracked or broken. It can happen in an instant and make everyday activities uncomfortable. You might hurt your foot during a fall, twist it stepping off a curb, or drop something heavy on it. Sports and accidents can also cause foot fractures. The pain may be mild at first or severe right away. Knowing what to look for helps you get the care you need and avoid making the injury worse.

One of the most common signs of a broken foot is considerable pain. Your foot may swell or develop bruising around the injured area. Standing and walking can become difficult, especially when you put weight on the foot. You might also notice tenderness when you touch the affected spot. Some fractures hurt immediately, while others become more painful over time. Because fractures feel similar to sprains, it is important to have ongoing pain checked by a professional.

Anyone can break a foot, but certain situations make injuries more likely. Falls and sports accidents are common causes. Repeated activities, such as running and jumping, can also create tiny cracks in the bones. Conditions like osteoporosis weaken bones and increase fracture risk. If you injure your foot, a podiatrist will ask how it happened and carefully examine the area. X-rays are often used to check for a fracture. Sometimes, additional imaging tests are needed to find a small crack that does not show clearly on an X-ray.

Treatment depends on which bone is broken and how serious the injury is. Your podiatrist may recommend a walking boot or cast to protect the foot while it heals. Some fractures need surgery to place the bones in the correct position. Resting and elevating your foot as directed can help manage swelling. If you think you have broken your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who accurately diagnoses and effectively treats this condition.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Deborah Rosenfeld from Rosenfeld Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

  • Bruising
  • Pain
  • Redness
  • Swelling
  • Blue in color
  • Numbness
  • Cold
  • Misshapen
  • Cuts
  • Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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

Read more about Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment for a Broken Foot

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

A broken toe occurs when one of the small bones in the toes cracks or breaks. This injury results from dropping a heavy object onto the foot or striking the toe against a hard surface. Broken toes may develop during sports or activities involving sudden impacts. Although these injuries are often minor, the severity depends on which toe is affected and whether the broken bone remains properly aligned. The big toe is important for balance and walking, making injuries in this area more concerning. Some fractures involve a small crack, while others cause the bone to shift out of its normal position.

 

Common symptoms of a broken toe include pain, swelling, and bruising around the injured area. The affected toe may become tender to the touch, and discomfort increases when walking or wearing shoes. In more serious cases, the toe may appear crooked or unusually positioned. Some individuals experience difficulty moving the affected toe or placing weight on the foot. Broken toes generally heal within four to six weeks, although certain injuries require additional recovery time. Persistent pain or swelling may indicate a more complicated fracture. Injuries involving the big toe or significant changes in toe shape require attention because they may affect foot movement and stability.

 

A podiatrist evaluates a suspected broken toe by examining the injured area and checking the position of the affected bones. X-rays may be ordered to confirm the fracture and determine whether the bones remain aligned. Treatment depends on the severity and location of the injury. Some fractures require protective footwear or professional support to keep the toe stable while it heals. More complicated fractures may need treatment to restore proper alignment. Follow-up evaluations help monitor recovery and identify potential complications. If you are experiencing persistent toe pain, swelling, or difficulty walking after an injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options. 

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Deborah Rosenfeld from Rosenfeld Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

  • Swelling
  • Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
  • Stiffness
  • Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Marlton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about What to Know About a Broken Toe

Do You Suffer From Painful Feet?

Painful deformities, such as hammertoes, can be treated. Stop living with foot pain, and have beautiful feet again!

Rheumatoid Arthritis in the Foot Joints

Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is an autoimmune condition that can cause ongoing inflammation in the joints. When RA affects the feet, it may make walking and daily activities uncomfortable. Symptoms can include swelling, warmth, and pain. Morning stiffness may last for an hour or longer. The feet can also develop changes in joint shape over time. These changes may affect balance and footwear comfort.

The metatarsophalangeal, or MTP joints, connect the toes to the long bones of the foot. RA can cause swelling and tenderness in these joints, making it painful to push off while walking. The proximal interphalangeal, or PIP joints, are located in the middle sections of the toes. Inflammation here may cause stiffness or changes in toe position. The distal interphalangeal, or DIP joints, are closest to the toenails. Although RA more commonly affects larger foot joints, these smaller joints can also become painful and inflamed.

Risk factors include family history, smoking, and being female. RA can occur at any age, although it often begins during adulthood. The exact cause is not fully understood. The immune system mistakenly attacks healthy joint tissue, which leads to inflammation. Persistent inflammation may damage cartilage and bone. It can also contribute to deformities that change how pressure is distributed across the foot.

A podiatrist can evaluate your feet, review symptoms, and recommend imaging or other testing when appropriate. Treatment may include wearing supportive footwear, custom orthotics, and medication management coordinated with your medical team. A podiatrist may also recommend padding to protect painful pressure areas and reduce irritation. Regular follow-up can help monitor joint changes and protect foot function. If you have symptoms of RA in the feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions. 

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 Deborah Rosenfeld of Rosenfeld Podiatry. 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 Marlton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Signs and Causes of Psoriatic Arthritis in the Feet

Psoriatic arthritis in the feet is a chronic inflammatory condition that can affect the joints, tendons, and surrounding tissues. It often develops in people who have psoriasis, a skin condition that causes dry, scaly patches. However, joint symptoms can sometimes appear before noticeable skin changes. Psoriatic arthritis may affect one or several joints and can make walking, standing, and daily activities uncomfortable. Early attention can help protect joint function and reduce ongoing inflammation.

Symptoms can vary from person to person. Common signs include foot pain, joint swelling, and tenderness. The length of the toes may become swollen, creating a sausage-like appearance called dactylitis. The heels may also hurt when inflammation affects the Achilles tendon or plantar fascia. Some people notice stiffness that is worse in the morning or after resting. Toenail changes, such as pitting or separation from the nail bed, may also occur.

Several factors can increase the risk of developing psoriatic arthritis. Having psoriasis is the strongest known risk factor, especially when skin or nail symptoms are present. A family history of psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis can also increase risk. The exact cause is not fully understood, but the condition involves an abnormal immune response that causes inflammation. Genetic factors and certain environmental triggers may contribute. Injury, infection, or significant physical stress may also play a role in some people.

A podiatrist will examine the feet, ankles, and joints, while reviewing symptoms and medical history. Imaging or laboratory testing may be recommended to help identify joint changes or rule out other causes of foot pain. Treatment may include recommendations for supportive footwear and custom orthotics. A podiatrist may also address painful pressure areas and provide ongoing foot care. If you have psoriatic arthritis in your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Deborah Rosenfeld from Rosenfeld Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

  • Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
  • Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
  • Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Marlton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about How to Care for Your Arthritic Foot

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