A partial plantar plate tear is a common injury among runners, caused by repetitive stress and strain on the ligament beneath the ball of the foot. This thick structure helps stabilize the toes, but the high-impact nature of running, especially on hard surfaces or with improper form, can lead to overuse and small tears. Wearing worn-out or unsupportive running shoes can also increase the risk. Runners often notice pain under the ball of the foot, swelling, and a feeling of instability in the second or third toe. The discomfort may worsen with continued activity, making it difficult to maintain training routines. Early diagnosis is essential to prevent worsening. A podiatrist can confirm the injury through a physical exam, imaging, or ultrasound. Treatment ranges from rest, wearing supportive footwear, and orthotics to immobilization, or, in severe cases, surgery. If you have symptoms as described, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Adriana Strimbu, DPM of Complete Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
How to Prevent Running Injuries
There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.
More Tips for Preventing Injury
Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
“Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
Cross-Training is Crucial
Wear Proper Running Shoes
Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause injury
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hallandale Beach, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Achilles tendonitis is an injury that affects the Achilles tendon, the large tendon located at the back of the ankle, connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. This condition occurs when the tendon becomes irritated or inflamed due to overuse or excessive strain. Common symptoms of Achilles tendonitis include pain and swelling along the back of the heel, which may worsen with physical activity, especially running or jumping. Individuals may also experience stiffness and discomfort in the morning. The main causes of Achilles tendonitis are repetitive stress on the tendon, sudden increases in physical activity, or wearing improper footwear. Athletes, particularly runners, are at higher risk, as well as individuals who have tight calf muscles or abnormal foot mechanics. If you have incurred an Achilles tendon injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat this condition.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Adriana Strimbu, DPM of Complete Foot & Ankle Care. 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 Hallandale Beach, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, particularly between the toes. It is caused by fungi known as dermatophytes, which thrive in warm, moist environments like sweaty socks and shoes. The symptoms of athlete's foot include itching, redness, peeling, and sometimes blistering or cracking of the skin. There are different types of athlete’s foot, including interdigital, which affects the spaces between the toes, and moccasin-type, which leads to dry, scaly skin on the soles and sides of the feet. The infection can reoccur because the fungi are resilient and can survive on contaminated surfaces like floors, towels, and shoes. Poor foot hygiene, wearing tight shoes, and exposure to communal areas like gym floors can contribute to repeated infections. Athlete’s foot can be uncomfortable. If you have developed this condition, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer prescribed medication for relief.
Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Adriana Strimbu, DPM from Complete Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.
What Is Athlete’s Foot?
Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.
Prevention
The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:
Thoroughly washing and drying feet
Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
Using shower shoes in public showers
Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot
Symptoms
Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:
Redness
Burning
Itching
Scaly and peeling skin
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hallandale Beach, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
