Items filtered by date: October 2025

Foot stress fractures are small cracks in the bones of the feet that develop gradually from repeated stress, rather than a sudden injury. Foot stress fractures often occur when people increase their activity level too quickly, as the foot muscles may not provide enough support to protect the bones. Sports like running, tennis, football, and gymnastics are frequent causes, as repeated impact on hard surfaces places strain on the metatarsals, heel bone, or navicular bone. Abnormal foot structure, such as flat feet or high arches, can also contribute by unevenly distributing pressure. Wearing shoes that lack adequate support or relying heavily on flip-flops may further increase the risk. Pain usually begins gradually, worsening with activity and resulting in swelling or tenderness. A podiatrist can identify the source of the pain and provide proper treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms of foot stress fractures, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Brain Middleton, DPM from Medical Foot Care Center. Our doctor 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 contact our office located in Rome, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Hammertoe is a common foot deformity where one or more toes bend downward at the middle joint, causing a curled or claw-like appearance. This condition is often caused by a muscle imbalance,  wearing tight footwear, injury, or arthritis. Symptoms include pain, swelling, redness, corns or calluses on the affected toe or on the top of the toe. Causes include friction with shoes, and difficulty walking or wearing certain shoes comfortably. The affected toe may feel stiff or sore, and worsen over time, if left untreated. A podiatrist can diagnose hammertoe through a physical examination and imaging, if necessary. Treatment options vary depending on severity, and may include changing footwear, custom orthotics, or, in advanced cases, surgery to correct the deformity. Early intervention can prevent progression and improve comfort. If you notice toe deformities or experience foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to receive a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Brain Middleton, DPM from Medical Foot Care Center. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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