Signs of a broken heel bone often develop quickly after an injury and can make walking very difficult. The heel bone, known medically as the calcaneus, supports the back of the foot and works to help the foot roll inward and outward during movement. A break in the heel bone often causes sudden swelling, severe heel pain, and bruising that spreads through the back of the foot. Many people cannot put weight on the injured foot at all. The pain usually worsens when trying to stand, walk, or even move the ankle. In some heel bone fractures, the skin stays intact, but when the skin is broken, surgery is needed right away to reduce the risk of serious complications. A podiatrist can evaluate the injury, order imaging, and guide proper treatment to help protect long-term foot function. If you believe you have broken your heel bone, it is suggested that you make an immediate appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from North Eastern Ohio Podiatry Group LLC. our doctors 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 offices located in Willoughby Hills, Euclid, and Beachwood, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

As children grow, their feet and legs constantly change, sometimes leading to alignment problems such as inward or outward turning or flattened arches. These issues can result from differences in bone growth, muscle tightness, or ligament flexibility. Most mild cases improve with age, but some may cause pain, uneven gait, or frequent tripping, if not corrected. A podiatrist can determine whether the condition is part of normal development or needs treatment. Wearing supportive shoes, gentle stretching, and specially designed orthotics can help realign the feet and encourage healthy movement. In certain situations, targeted exercises or braces may be used to guide proper positioning as a child continues to grow. If you notice your child walking unevenly, stumbling often, or showing signs of discomfort, it is suggested that you have their feet evaluated by a podiatrist to ensure healthy development and alignment.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one of our podiatrists of North Eastern Ohio Podiatry Group LLC. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Willoughby Hills, Euclid, and Beachwood, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Big toe joint replacement is a surgical option for people who have severe arthritis in the joint at the base of the big toe, known as the first metatarsophalangeal joint. Big-toe joint replacement surgery involves removing damaged bone and inserting an implant that reduces pain, while allowing some motion and helping to maintain the natural shape of the toe. Although the artificial joint does not move exactly like a healthy one, it can restore function and improve mobility. Because the implant has a limited lifespan, usually around 10 years, it is often recommended for those who place less stress on their feet. Recovery requires rest, gradual return to activity, and close monitoring of healing progress. A podiatrist can evaluate whether surgery is the best choice, explain the risks and benefits, and provide guidance throughout recovery. If you are struggling with debilitating pain in the big toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment options.

In certain cases, in which the patient suffers from extreme pain or damage in a joint, joint replacement surgery may be deemed useful. If you have constant pain in a foot joint, consult with one of our podiatrists from North Eastern Ohio Podiatry Group LLC. our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Joint Replacement Surgery?

Over time, joints wear down; this can be exacerbated by diseases and conditions. Joint replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty, is when a damaged joint is surgically removed and replaced with a prosthesis. Prostheses, which can be made of ceramic, plastic, or metal, act as joints in lieu of an actual joint. One of the most prevalent causes for joint replacement is arthritis.

Arthritis in the Foot

Arthritis can occur in any joint in the body, including in the feet. Common types of arthritis in the foot are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. The big toe is usually where arthritis occurs in the foot; this is known as hallux rigidus.

Joint Replacement Surgery in the Foot

The most common form of joint replacement in the foot is a first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint placement. MTP joint replacement surgery is designed to treat hallux rigidus. Surgery is not intensive, and recovery occurs within one to two months after the procedure has been done. Overall, joint replacement surgery is a safe and effective way to treat pain in the joint of the foot.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Willoughby Hills, Euclid, and Beachwood, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Strong ankles are vital for stability, balance, and proper movement of the feet. Ankle mobility refers to the flexibility of the ankle joint and the surrounding muscles and tendons, which allows a full range of motion during walking or sports. Strengthening the ankles helps prevent sprains, improves balance, and reduces the risk of falls or repetitive strain injuries. Simple exercises such as ankle circles, single-leg balance, heel lifts, and toe raises enhance stability and coordination by strengthening the muscles that support the foot and ankle. Regular ankle strengthening also improves proprioception, the body’s ability to sense movement and position, which is essential for preventing missteps and ankle sprains. People who wear high heels or spend long hours standing can benefit from these exercises, as stronger ankles can offset added strain on the joints. If you experience pain or weakness in the ankles, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and guidance on an ankle strengthening routine.

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 North Eastern Ohio Podiatry Group LLC. 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 Willoughby Hills, Euclid, and Beachwood, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.