A broken foot can affect any of the 26 bones that provide support and movement. A fracture is the medical term for a broken bone. These injuries can happen after a fall, a sports accident, or a heavy object landing on the foot. A broken foot can also result from a car accident or a hard twist of the foot and ankle. Symptoms usually begin with sudden pain that becomes worse while walking or standing. Swelling, bruising, and tenderness are also common. Some patients notice a change in the shape of the foot or have trouble putting weight on it. Prompt treatment is important because walking on a broken foot can cause the injury to become more severe.

A podiatrist performs a detailed examination to determine which bone is injured and how serious the fracture is. The evaluation includes checking the foot for swelling, tenderness, and changes in alignment. The podiatrist also asks how the injury occurred and whether the patient can bear weight on the foot. Imaging tests, like X-rays or CT scans, provide detailed pictures of the bones and help identify fractures that cannot be confirmed by an examination alone. A CT scan uses multiple X-ray images to create detailed cross-sectional views of the foot. An accurate diagnosis allows the podiatrist to select the most appropriate treatment and monitor the healing process.

Treatment depends on the location and severity of the fracture. A podiatrist develops a treatment plan that protects the broken bone while helping restore normal foot function. Care includes a cast, a walking boot, or another device that keeps the bones properly aligned while they heal. Follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to monitor healing and determine when it is safe to increase activity. If you have symptoms of a broken foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one our of podiatrists from The Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctors 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 offices located in Houston and Deer Park, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Shoes play an important role in foot health, yet many people have footwear that causes pain and other problems. Shoes that are too tight can squeeze the toes and place pressure on the front of the foot. This can lead to bunions, which are bony bumps that develop near the big toe joint. Tight shoes can also contribute to hammertoes, a condition in which the toes bend abnormally. Pointed-toe shoes are another concern because they push the toes together and reduce the space needed for normal movement. Footwear that does not fit properly can also change the way a person walks, creating strain on the feet and ankles.

Worn-out shoes can be just as harmful as shoes that fit poorly. The bottoms of shoes gradually wear down, especially around the heel. When this happens, the foot can become unbalanced while walking. Running shoes also lose their cushioning after repeated use. Less cushioning means the feet absorb more impact with every step. This can lead to discomfort in the feet, ankles, knees, and hips. Another common mistake is buying shoes without trying them on first. Shoe sizes can vary between brands, and a shoe that looks comfortable may not fit well once it is worn.

The time of day when shoes are purchased can also make a difference. Feet naturally swell after standing and walking for several hours. Shoes that feel comfortable early in the morning may become tight later in the day. It is also important to spend several minutes walking in new shoes before buying them. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, discuss footwear choices, and recommend supportive shoes or orthotics when needed. If you have foot pain from the shoes you wear, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and diagnosis.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one our of podiatrists from The Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

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

A broken toe can make every step uncomfortable and interfere with work, exercise, and daily routines. This injury usually happens after the toe strikes a hard object or a heavy item falls on the foot. A broken toe can also result from a twisting injury. Pain, swelling, and bruising are common signs. Some people notice that the toe looks crooked or becomes difficult to move. Because these symptoms can resemble a sprain or a severe bruise, a careful examination is important. A podiatrist evaluates the injured toe, checks its position, and determines whether nearby joints have also been affected. X-rays provide clear images of the bones and help confirm the diagnosis. Identifying the exact location and severity of the break allows the podiatrist to develop the most effective treatment plan.

Broken toes vary in severity. Some fractures remain in their normal position, while others shift out of alignment. A fracture is the medical term for a broken bone. Damage can involve one bone or several bones in the toe. In some cases, the injury extends into a nearby joint, which can affect movement and increase discomfort. A podiatrist carefully evaluates the condition of the bones, joints, and surrounding soft tissues. Prompt diagnosis helps reduce the risk of improper healing, long-term pain, and lasting changes in foot function. Early treatment also supports proper bone alignment and helps protect normal movement while walking.

Treatment depends on the location of the break and how far the bone has moved. A podiatrist develops a treatment plan that promotes proper healing and helps restore foot function. Care includes protecting the injured toe, monitoring healing with follow-up examinations, and recommending supportive devices when appropriate. More severe fractures sometimes require surgery to place the bones in their proper position. Regular follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to monitor healing and make treatment adjustments when necessary. Professional care also helps lower the risk of stiffness, ongoing pain, and future foot problems. If you have  broken your toe, it is suggested that you  promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment solutions.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one our of podiatrists from The Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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

Falling down steps is a sudden traumatic event that can cause significant injury to the foot and ankle due to the high impact forces involved. This type of fall often occurs when a person missteps, loses balance, or fails to see a step clearly. The foot may twist, roll, or absorb direct impact, leading to damage in bones, ligaments, or soft tissues. Because stairs create uneven elevation changes, even a small miscalculation can result in injury.

Symptoms following a fall down steps vary depending on severity but often include sharp pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. Some individuals may notice instability in the ankle or an inability to bear weight. More serious injuries may present with deformity, grinding sensations, or persistent pain that worsens over time. Soft tissue injuries such as sprains or tendon strains are common, but fractures of the toes, heel, or ankle bones may also occur.

Risk factors for falling down steps include environmental hazards such as poorly maintained stairs, cluttered walkways, and inadequate lighting. Personal factors such as wearing improper footwear, rushing, or carrying heavy objects can also increase risk. Medical conditions that affect balance, coordination, or sensation in the feet further contribute to the likelihood of a fall. Reduced muscle strength or previous injuries may also make individuals more vulnerable to losing stability on stairs.

Foot conditions caused by falling down steps can range from mild to severe. Common injuries include ankle sprains, plantar fascia strain, metatarsal fractures, and ligament damage. In some cases, repeated instability may develop if injuries are not fully treated. Proper evaluation is important to prevent long term complications such as chronic pain or reduced mobility. If you have sustained a foot or ankle injury from falling down steps, it is suggested you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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 our of podiatrists from The Foot and Ankle Specialists. 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 offices located in Houston and Deer Park, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.