Foot pain and poor foot posture have been linked to an increased risk of multiple falls, particularly in older adults. Flat feet or severe pain in the toes, feet, or ankles can make it difficult to maintain proper balance, leading to instability while walking or standing. People experiencing foot discomfort may unknowingly adjust their gait, which can further increase the risk of falling. Falls can result in serious injuries, including fractures and a loss of mobility. A podiatrist can assess the underlying causes of foot pain and instability, identifying issues that may be contributing to frequent falls. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may involve the use of orthotic devices, supportive footwear, or surgery to correct structural problems. Managing foot pain effectively can improve stability and reduce the risk of repeated falls. If you have foot problems that are causing you to fall or are interfering with stability, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for guidance.

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 one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot and Ankle Centers, Inc.. Our doctors 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 office located in Clovis, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle bursitis occurs when the bursae, small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the bones, tendons, and muscles in the ankle, become inflamed. Ankle bursitis can cause pain, swelling, tenderness, and difficulty in moving the ankle. Irritation or injury to these sacs is often caused by repetitive motion, direct trauma, or wearing improper footwear, resulting in discomfort and stiffness. Certain medical conditions, such as gout or rheumatoid arthritis, may also increase the likelihood of developing ankle bursitis. Symptoms include tenderness, warmth, and visible swelling in the ankle, which may worsen with movement or pressure. A podiatrist can diagnose ankle bursitis by assessing symptoms, conducting a physical examination, and using imaging tests to rule out other conditions. Treatment options include reducing strain on the ankle with supportive footwear or orthotics, medication to alleviate inflammation, and, in severe cases, surgery to remove the inflamed bursa. If you are experiencing ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle 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.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

Running injuries affecting the feet, toes, and ankles can often be avoided with proper precautions. Gradually increasing running intensity and mileage helps prevent stress on the foot and ankle structures, reducing the likelihood of conditions like Achilles tendonitis and stress fractures. Wearing well-fitted running shoes with adequate support and cushioning minimizes excessive pressure on the forefoot and heel, helping to prevent plantar fasciitis and blisters. Paying attention to form, such as avoiding overstriding, can decrease the impact force on the feet and ankles. Strengthening the lower leg and foot muscles improves stability, which reduces the risk of ankle sprains. Cross-training with low-impact activities allows the feet and ankles to recover while maintaining fitness. Runners should also listen to their body and rest if pain develops to avoid worsening an injury. A podiatrist can assess your running-related foot injury, recommend custom orthotics, and provide the appropriate treatment to help you maintain healthy feet. If you have injured your foot, toe, or ankle from running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Foot and Ankle Centers, Inc.. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

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