Pain on the outer side of the foot can sometimes signal an avulsion fracture, also called a pseudo Jones fracture. This type of injury affects the base of the fifth metatarsal, which is the long bone below the pinky toe. The fracture happens when a tendon pulls a small piece of bone away from its attachment. The injury can occur after a sudden twist, roll, or direct impact to the ankle or foot. People typically notice sharp pain, swelling, and tenderness near the outer edge of the foot, making walking or bearing weight difficult. Because this fracture can be mistaken for a sprain or a more serious type of fracture, an accurate diagnosis is important. A podiatrist can perform an exam, order X-rays, and recommend the best course of treatment, including immobilization or, in some cases, surgery. If you are experiencing outer foot pain, it is suggested that you make an 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 Landon Bowerbank, DPM from Pioneer Foot and Ankle. 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 Lehi, UT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling. If left untreated, the area can become infected and make walking uncomfortable. Podiatrists are specially trained to manage this condition safely and effectively. Treatment depends on the severity of the problem. In mild cases, the nail edge may be gently lifted and trimmed to relieve pressure. For more advanced or recurring cases, a minor in-office procedure may be performed to remove a small part of the nail or the underlying nail root to prevent regrowth in that area. Proper cleaning, antibiotic care, and protective bandaging help the toe heal quickly. A podiatrist also provides guidance on trimming techniques and footwear to reduce future problems. If you have a painful ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you seek prompt professional care from a podiatrist who can help restore comfort and prevent further complications.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Landon Bowerbank, DPM of Pioneer Foot and Ankle. our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

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

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that develops on the skin of the feet, most often between the toes or on the soles. It may cause itching, redness, peeling, cracking, or small blisters, and, in some cases, the affected skin may become sore. Athlete’s foot can spread to the toenails or other areas of the foot, if not properly addressed. The fungus thrives in warm, moist environments, making sweaty shoes, damp socks, or walking barefoot in communal showers and locker rooms common risk factors. Sharing shoes or socks can also contribute to its spread. People with diabetes or a weakened immune system are more susceptible to complications, as broken skin can allow bacteria to enter, leading to further infection. A podiatrist can diagnose athlete’s foot, determine the extent of the infection, and provide appropriate treatment to help restore skin health and prevent recurrence. If you have symptoms of an Athlete's foot infection, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Landon Bowerbank, DPM from Pioneer Foot and Ankle.  our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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

A rupture of the Achilles tendon, the strong cord that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, often causes sudden pain in the back of the ankle and difficulty pushing off the foot. An Achilles tendon rupture usually occurs during activities that involve a quick change in direction or an explosive push from the foot. When the tendon tears, patients often describe hearing or feeling a “pop,” followed by swelling and weakness when standing on the toes. A podiatrist can diagnose this injury through a physical exam and imaging tests to confirm the extent of the rupture. Treatment depends on the severity of the tear and can involve immobilization with a boot or surgery to repair the tendon. Early, controlled movement during recovery helps maintain strength and flexibility while reducing the chance of re-injury. If you have injured your Achilles tendon, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Landon Bowerbank, DPM of Pioneer Foot and Ankle. our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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