June 2024

Stress fractures, common to runners and other athletes, result in placing excessive strain on the foot bones. One significant cause of stress fractures is a sudden increase in physical activity, whether it involves frequency, duration, or intensity. Transitioning from soft surfaces such as indoor tracks to harder ones like sidewalks can stress the bones of the feet. Improper technique due to foot conditions like blisters or bunions can also contribute by altering the foot's natural movement patterns and redistributing weight unevenly. Footwear that is poorly fitting, worn-out, or lacking proper support significantly increases the risk of stress fractures. While athletes commonly experience these injuries, non-athletes are also susceptible from extended walking on uneven terrain during vacations. Other risk factors for foot stress fractures, including osteoporosis, which reduces bone density and strength, as well as low vitamin D levels. Female athletes face other risks, possibly due to biomechanical differences, hormonal factors, and nutritional deficiencies. If you are experiencing pain in your foot after activity, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate testing and treatment options.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Ahmad Elsamad, DPM from The Institute of Foot & Ankle Reconstructive Surgery . 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 feel free to contact our offices located in Merrillville, and Munster, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Bunions are bony bumps that form on the joint at the base of the big toe, causing the toe to deviate towards the other toes. They appear as swollen, protruding lumps on the side of the foot and can be red and tender. The condition can cause significant discomfort, including pain, swelling, and restricted movement of the big toe. Bunions often develop due to inherited foot structure, wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, arthritis, or excessive stress on the feet. High heels and pointed shoes are common culprits in exacerbating bunions. Symptoms typically include pain, especially while walking, and inflammation surrounding the affected joint. Treatment for bunions ranges from conservative measures to surgery. Wearing wider shoes, using bunion pads, and taking anti-inflammatory medications can help to alleviate symptoms. Orthotic devices may help correct foot alignment. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to realign the bone and relieve pain. Untreated bunions can lead to complications such as bursitis or hammertoes. If you have a bunion that is causing you discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment. 

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Ahmad Elsamad, DPM of The Institute of Foot & Ankle Reconstructive Surgery . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

For seniors, falls can pose significant risks to health and independence, and can seriously impact the feet, necessitating the need to make fall prevention techniques in the home important. Start by ensuring adequate lighting throughout the house, especially in hallways, staircases, and bathrooms, to enhance visibility and reduce tripping hazards. Remove clutter and secure loose rugs or carpets to prevent slips and falls. Install grab bars in bathrooms and near toilets and showers to provide stability and support. Additionally, consider adding non-slip mats or adhesive strips to bathtub and shower floors. Keep commonly used items within easy reach to avoid overreaching or straining. Regular exercise to improve strength, balance, and flexibility can also reduce the risk of falls. Ensure that footwear fits well and provides proper support and traction. Regularly review medications with a healthcare provider to identify potential side effects that may increase fall risk. If falling has happened and foot conditions have arisen, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective treatment and additional prevention methods.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Ahmad Elsamad, DPM from The Institute of Foot & Ankle Reconstructive Surgery . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

If you have ever felt a stabbing pain in your heel, especially when you first step out of bed in the morning, you might be experiencing plantar fasciitis. This condition, often referred to as painful heel syndrome or runner's heel, occurs when the plantar fascia, or tissue, that connects your heel bone to your toes becomes inflamed or tight. This causes intense discomfort, especially after periods of rest. Although plantar fasciitis is considered a repetitive stress injury, not just athletes are at risk. Anyone who spends a lot of time on their feet or has recently changed their exercise routine may develop plantar fasciitis. The pain is typically gradual, worsening throughout the day, and affects your ability to walk. It may even radiate toward your toes. While weight gain and sudden increases in activity can contribute to plantar fasciitis, it is essential to consult a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and treatment as other factors may be involved. A podiatrist is trained to assess this condition and recommend personalized treatment options, including stretching exercises, orthotic shoe inserts, or pain relief medication. Ignoring the symptoms of plantar fasciitis can lead to chronic heel pain or changes in your gait that may affect other parts of your body. For help in managing plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Ahmad Elsamad, DPM  from The Institute of Foot & Ankle Reconstructive Surgery . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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