Roller skating demands stability, control, and quick footwork, which can place strain on the feet and ankles. Poorly fitted skating boots are a common source of discomfort, causing blisters, pressure points, and nerve irritation. Tight boots may lead to lace bite or a pinched nerve on the top of the foot, while loose boots can result in instability, cramping, and fatigue from overcompensating. Over time, these issues may contribute to more serious conditions such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, or metatarsal stress fractures. Malleolar bursitis may occur when pressure builds around the bony ankle area, and poor technique or muscle imbalances can worsen strain during turns and landings. A podiatrist can examine painful areas, assess footwear fit, recommend padding or custom orthotics, and offer guidance to reduce injury risk and improve comfort on skates. If you suffer from foot or ankle pain after roller skating, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment options.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Foot and Ankle Centers, Inc.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Clovis and Madera, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, commonly affecting the big toe, but also other parts of the foot and ankle. Symptoms include sudden, severe pain, redness, swelling, and warmth surrounding the affected joint. Attacks often occur at night and can last for several days, making walking and wearing shoes uncomfortable. Causes of gout include genetics, a diet high in purines, obesity, certain medications, and underlying health conditions like kidney disease. Visually, the affected joint may appear swollen and red, and the pain is often described as intense and throbbing. A podiatrist can diagnose gout through a physical examination, patient history, and blood tests to measure uric acid levels. Treatment includes medication to reduce inflammation and pain, lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, and, in some cases, joint drainage. To manage symptoms and prevent flare-ups, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot and Ankle Centers, Inc.. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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

Arch pain is a common foot complaint that affects people of all ages. It often feels like a burning or aching sensation in the bottom of the foot, especially in the arch area. Symptoms may worsen after long periods of standing, walking, or physical activity. Causes can include plantar fasciitis, flat feet, high arches, overuse injuries, or wearing unsupportive footwear. The arch may appear swollen, red, or tender to the touch. A podiatrist can provide an accurate diagnosis through a physical exam, gait analysis, and possibly imaging tests. Depending on the cause, treatment includes custom orthotics, stretching exercises, footwear recommendations, or anti-inflammatory medications. In more severe cases, injections or surgery may be considered. Arch pain can interfere with daily activities and overall comfort, so it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to address the issue and restore healthy foot function.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot and Ankle Centers, Inc.. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Foot drop is a condition that causes difficulty lifting the front part of the foot, resulting in dragging or slapping the foot while walking. This can lead to an abnormal gait and increase the risk of tripping or falling. Common symptoms include weakness or paralysis of the muscles that lift the foot, numbness, tingling, or a heavy feeling in the affected leg. Causes of foot drop include nerve injury, muscle disorders, stroke, or compression of the peroneal nerve near the knee. The foot may appear to drag or drop when lifted, and individuals may raise their knee higher than normal to avoid tripping. A podiatrist can diagnose foot drop by assessing muscle strength, nerve function, and walking patterns. Treatment options may include targeted exercises, bracing, or surgery, depending on the cause and severity. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to receive an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot and Ankle Centers, Inc.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Clovis and Madera, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.