A foot stress fracture occurs due to repetitive stress or overuse, often from activities like running or jumping. This type of fracture develops when the foot’s bones are subjected to excessive force, leading to tiny cracks that gradually worsen. Common symptoms include localized pain that intensifies with activity, swelling, and tenderness at the site of the fracture. The affected area might also become bruised or stiff. Diagnosing a foot stress fracture involves a thorough physical examination and imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans which can reveal the extent of the injury and rule out other conditions. If you have endured a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist  who can accurately diagnose and treat foot stress fractures.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from David A. Scalzo, DPM, PC and Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Duryea and Bangor, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, where it meets the long bone of the foot. Bunions develop when the big toe pushes towards the second toe, causing the joint at the base of the big toe to protrude. This misalignment is often made worse by wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, particularly those with high heels or a narrow toe box. Symptoms of bunions include pain, swelling, and redness surrounding the affected joint, and difficulty finding comfortable footwear. Over time, the misalignment can worsen, making daily activities uncomfortable. Treatment for bunions focuses on alleviating pain and preventing further progression. A podiatrist can discuss options that may include wearing wider, more supportive shoes, using orthotic devices to correct foot alignment, and performing exercises to improve joint mobility. In persistent cases, surgery may be considered. If you have developed a bunion, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a treatment plan.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of David A. Scalzo, DPM, PC and Associates. Our doctors 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 Duryea and Bangor, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout is a form of arthritis characterized by sudden, severe pain in the joints often beginning in the big toe. An excess of uric acid in the blood leads to the formation of sharp crystals in the joints. Symptoms include intense pain, swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected area, which can occur suddenly, often at night. The joint may also feel tender and stiff. A podiatrist will typically review your medical history and perform a physical examination to diagnose gout. Diagnosis is confirmed through tests like joint fluid analysis, where a sample of fluid from the affected joint is examined for uric acid crystals or blood tests to measure uric acid levels. If you have pain in your big toe, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat gout. 

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from David A. Scalzo, DPM, PC and Associates. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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

Posterior tibial tendonitis is an inflammation of the posterior tibial tendon, which supports the arch of the foot and aids in walking. This condition often results from overuse or repetitive strain, commonly seen in athletes or those with flat feet. Symptoms include pain and swelling along the inner ankle, difficulty standing on tiptoe, and a collapsing arch, leading to a flat-footed appearance. If untreated, it can progress to more severe foot deformities and chronic pain. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, assessing symptoms and foot mechanics, and may include imaging tests like MRI scans or ultrasounds to evaluate tendon damage. Treatment usually focuses on rest, medications, and orthotics to support the arch. In severe cases, surgery may be considered. If you are suffering pain along your inner ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists  from David A. Scalzo, DPM, PC and Associates. 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 tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• 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 offices located in Duryea and Bangor, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition caused by compression of the tibial nerve as it passes through the tarsal tunnel, the narrow space on the inside of the ankle. This compression can lead to pain, numbness, and tingling in the foot and ankle, often radiating into the toes. People most at risk for tarsal tunnel syndrome include those with flat feet, as the collapse of the arch can increase pressure on the nerve. It can also affect individuals with arthritis, diabetes, or a history of ankle injuries. Symptoms often include a burning sensation, sharp pain, or a feeling of pins and needles in the affected area. Diagnosis generally involves a physical examination, nerve conduction studies, and imaging tests to assess the severity. Treatment options range from rest and anti-inflammatory medications to orthotics and targeted exercises. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to relieve pressure on the nerve and prevent further damage. If you have symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact one of our podiatrists of David A. Scalzo, DPM, PC and Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Duryea and Bangor, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Selecting the right size of sneakers is essential for comfort and performance. Start by measuring both feet, as they may vary in size, and always choose the size that fits the larger foot. When trying on sneakers, wear the same type of socks you plan to use with them. Ensure there is a thumb's width of space between the end of your longest toe and the shoe's tip to accommodate natural foot movement. Walk or run in the sneakers to check for any pressure points or discomfort. Pay attention to the arch support and ensure it matches your foot's arch type. Consider the shoe's flexibility and cushioning, especially if you plan to use them for specific activities, like running or walking. A proper fit helps prevent injuries and enhances overall comfort. If you have foot pain from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can manage your foot discomfort and guide you toward finding the right shoe size.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of one of our podiatrists from David A. Scalzo, DPM, PC and Associates. Our doctors will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

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

Hammertoe is a deformity where one of the smaller toes becomes bent at the middle joint, causing the toe to arch upward instead of lying flat. This misalignment often affects the second, third, or fourth toe and can lead to discomfort, especially when wearing shoes with a narrow or low toe box. Common symptoms of hammertoe can include corns, open sores, and pain in the ball of the foot. Various factors can contribute to a hammertoe, including having an unusually long toe, muscle weakness, or rheumatoid arthritis. Injuries, pressure from bunions, and wearing improperly fitting shoes can also result in hammertoe formation. A podiatrist can diagnose hammertoe through a physical examination of the foot and recommend treatment options such as wearing wider shoes, using toe pads, or performing specific foot exercises. In more severe cases, surgery may be required to correct the deformity. If you have a painful hammertoe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from David A. Scalzo, DPM, PC and Associates. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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

Cuboid syndrome is a condition where the cuboid bone, located on the outer side of the foot, becomes misaligned, causing pain and difficulty in movement. This syndrome often results from repetitive stress or trauma, leading to discomfort and instability in the foot. The cuboid whip is a manual therapy technique used to address this issue. During the procedure, a podiatrist applies a specific, quick, and controlled thrust to the cuboid bone, aiming to realign it and restore proper foot function. This adjustment can help to alleviate pain, improve mobility, and address any associated discomfort. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose if it is cuboid syndrome, and treat it accordingly.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with one of our podiatrists  from David A. Scalzo, DPM, PC and Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

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