Stress fractures are tiny cracks in a bone that develop from repeated force instead of a single injury. They frequently affect the bones of the foot because these bones absorb pressure with every step. Running, jumping, or suddenly increasing activity can place more stress on the bones than they can safely handle. Wearing shoes that lack proper support can also contribute to the problem. Symptoms include pain that gradually becomes worse during activity, tenderness over one area of the foot, and swelling. The pain usually improves with rest at first but can become more constant as the injury progresses. Early evaluation is important because untreated stress fractures can become more serious injuries. Healing can take several weeks, depending on the location and severity of the fracture.

A podiatrist evaluates the foot, walking pattern, and areas of tenderness to determine whether a stress fracture is likely. Imaging tests can help confirm the diagnosis when necessary. Treatment includes protecting the injured foot, reducing pressure on the affected bone, and recommending shoes that provide proper support. A podiatrist also identifies factors that contributed to the injury, including abnormal foot mechanics or uneven pressure. Regular follow-up visits help monitor healing and guide a safe return to normal activities. Care is tailored to the location of the fracture and the patient's daily activity level.

Ignoring a stress fracture can increase the risk of a complete fracture and delay recovery. Some stress fractures heal on their own, while others require closer monitoring because of their location or severity. Early podiatry care helps protect the injured bone, improve foot function, and reduce unnecessary stress on surrounding tissues. Prompt diagnosis also supports better healing and lowers the chance of long-term complications affecting mobility. If you have symptoms of stress fractures, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Joseph M. LaCava, DPM from Arkansas. 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 Hot Springs, AR . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ballet dancing places unique demands on the feet, requiring controlled movements, pointed positions, and repeated impact. Foot injuries in ballet often occur because dancers put significant pressure on their toes, arches, and ankles during training and performances. The definition of ballet-related foot injuries includes any damage or irritation affecting the bones, joints, or soft tissues of the foot caused by dance activity. Individual foot structure can influence how a dancer responds to these demands.

Common symptoms include soreness, swelling, and pain during or after practice. Dancers may experience problems such as ingrown toenails, tendon inflammation, and stress injuries. The way the toes are positioned during ballet can place pressure on the nails, causing them to grow into the surrounding skin. Toe length also affects how weight is distributed when shaping the foot and performing movements. Some dancers may experience discomfort because their foot shape does not match the demands of specific techniques or footwear.

Risk factors include repetitive training, inadequate rest, and improper shoe fit. The natural structure of the foot, including toe length and heel shape, can influence injury development. A heel that does not fit securely may allow the foot to slide inside the shoe, increasing friction and pressure. Dancers with certain foot shapes may need specialized support to maintain proper alignment. Weak foot muscles, limited flexibility, and sudden increases in training intensity can also contribute to injuries.

Protecting ballet feet involves choosing properly fitted shoes, strengthening the muscles of the feet, and addressing pain early. Dancers should avoid ignoring symptoms, as minor problems can become more serious over time. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, identify injury risks, and recommend appropriate treatment options. If you have developed foot injuries from ballet, it is suggested that you seek care from a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Joseph M. LaCava, DPM from Arkansas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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

Diabetic foot neuropathy is a nerve related condition that develops as a result of prolonged high blood glucose levels. It occurs when elevated sugar levels damage the nerves, particularly in the feet, leading to reduced sensation and impaired function. This condition is a common complication of diabetes and can affect balance, mobility, and overall foot health. Because the nerves are responsible for transmitting signals, any disruption can prevent the body from recognizing pain or injury, increasing the risk of serious complications.

Symptoms of diabetic foot neuropathy often begin gradually and may include tingling, burning sensations, numbness, and a feeling of pins and needles in the feet. Some individuals experience sharp or shooting pain, while others notice a loss of sensitivity to temperature or touch. This reduced sensation can make it difficult to detect cuts, blisters, or pressure points. As the condition progresses, muscle weakness and changes in foot shape may occur, further increasing the risk of injury and infection.

The primary cause of diabetic neuropathy is uncontrolled high blood glucose, which damages the small blood vessels that supply the nerves. Risk factors include long term diabetes, poor blood sugar management, smoking, and reduced circulation. Individuals with a history of foot problems or those who are overweight may also face a higher risk. These factors contribute to nerve damage over time, making early detection and consistent care essential for preventing complications.

Managing diabetic foot neuropathy involves controlling blood glucose levels and protecting the feet from injury. Regular foot examinations, wearing proper footwear, and daily hygiene play a key role in prevention. Medical treatment may include medications to manage nerve pain and improve function. Early intervention can reduce the risk of ulcers and infections. If you have symptoms of neuropathy from diabetes, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer relief and management tips.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Joseph M. LaCava, DPM from Arkansas. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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

A broken ankle is a fracture involving one or more of the bones that form the ankle joint. A fracture is the medical term for a broken bone. These injuries can happen after a fall, a sports accident, or a sudden twist that places too much force on the ankle. Car accidents and other high-impact injuries also can cause broken ankles. Symptoms include severe pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty while walking or standing. Some patients hear a snapping sound when the injury occurs. Others notice that the ankle looks out of place or cannot support body weight. Prompt evaluation is important because an untreated fracture can affect the alignment and stability of the ankle joint.

A podiatrist performs a detailed examination to determine the location and severity of the fracture. The evaluation includes checking the ankle for swelling, tenderness, and changes in alignment. The podiatrist also asks how the injury occurred and whether the patient can bear weight on the affected foot. Imaging tests, like X-rays or CT scans, provide detailed pictures of the bones and help identify fractures that are difficult to detect during an examination. A CT scan combines multiple X-ray images to create detailed cross-sectional views of the ankle. An accurate diagnosis allows the podiatrist to choose the most appropriate treatment and monitor healing throughout recovery. Early care also helps reduce the risk of long-term joint problems.

Treatment depends on the type of fracture and whether the bones remain in proper alignment. A podiatrist develops a treatment plan that protects the ankle while promoting healthy healing. Care includes a cast, a walking boot, or another device that keeps the bones stable. Regular follow-up visits help monitor healing and determine when normal activities can safely resume. Patients with severe fractures or bones that have shifted out of position can benefit from surgery to restore proper alignment. If you have symptoms of a broken ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Joseph M. LaCava, DPM from Arkansas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
• Swelling around the area
• Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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