If you have a broken foot, you know what a painful, disabling experience it can be. When you have a broken foot, you need to seek out the skills of your podiatrist, who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of foot and ankle issues, including fractures.
Drs. Brandon and Sarah James at Foot & Ankle Surgery of New Braunfels in New Braunfels, TX, provide comprehensive podiatry services, including diagnosis and treatment of foot fractures.
How Common Are Foot Fractures?
Foot fractures become more common as you age. Arthritis, degenerative joint diseases, osteoporosis, and other age-related issues combine to weaken your bones, making them more susceptible to fractures. You may also experience a foot fracture if you participate in high-contact sports or activities like soccer, football, basketball, and others.
So, how do you know if you have a foot fracture? These are some of the most common signs and symptoms of a foot fracture:
- You have foot pain that increases when you put weight on your feet
- Your foot pain decreases when you take the weight off your feet and elevate them
- You have increasing foot pain during activities or while playing sports
- You notice swelling, bruising, or tenderness in your feet that doesn’t go away
If you think you might have fractured your foot, you can try a few simple tips to get some relief, including:
- Elevating your foot to take the weight off of it
- Placing an ice pack on your foot several times daily
- Taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory and pain medication
You should seek out your podiatrist as soon as you can. Your podiatrist will order imaging studies to determine the size and type of fracture. Treatment may include:
- Medication to reduce inflammation and pain
- A walking cast, boot, or other assistive devices
- Surgery to repair and realign bones
- Physical therapy to help you stay mobile and flexible
Contact Our Podiatrists Today
To find out more about the signs, symptoms, and treatment of foot fractures, talk with the experts. Call Drs. Brandon and Sarah James at Foot & Ankle Surgery of New Braunfels in New Braunfels, TX. You can reach them in the office by calling (830) 387-4427. Call today.