January 2023

A stress fracture is also known as a hairline fracture. It can be a common foot injury among runners and people who frequently participate in sporting activities. Stress fractures can also occur when the surface used for running is changed and when the speed or duration is suddenly increased. Someone who experienced a stress fracture previously may be more susceptible to incurring another one. Before treatment can begin, a proper diagnosis is usually performed. An X-ray is generally taken to determine the extent of the break. An MRI may also be needed to view the surrounding tissue. If the verdict is a stress fracture the activity that caused it must be stopped temporarily, followed by frequently elevating the foot. Most patients will fully recover within two to eight weeks. If you think you have endured a stress fracture, please schedule an appointment with a podiatrist so the correct treatment can begin.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Dr. Ronald K. Olm from Grand Traverse Foot & Ankle Center. 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 feel free to contact one of our offices located in Traverse City and Kalkaska, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Incurring a running injury can cause physical pain and emotional discomfort. Many people may have to stop their running regime to ensure proper healing and this may be avoided when running injury prevention methods are implemented. Seasoned runners are often aware of the importance of protecting the body while running, therefore injuries may occur more often in runners who are less experienced. The majority of runners have a goal to be pain-free after their running routine is completed and this can be accomplished by properly warming up and cooling down before and after a run. Warming up and cooling down helps prepare the body to be flexible while running, which can also be beneficial in preventing an injury. Additionally, it is wise to gradually increase speed and distance which allows the body ample time to become accustomed to running. Running injuries often affect the feet so if you would like more information about effective prevention methods, please confer with a podiatrist.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Ronald K. Olm of Grand Traverse Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Traverse City and Kalkaska, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The 26 bones that are found in each foot are grouped into three categories. The talus and the calcaneus comprise the hindfoot, which represents the heel and where the foot attaches to the leg bone. The midfoot houses five small bones that are found between the ankles and toes, and they are referred to as the cuboid, navicular, and cuneiform bones. The bones that are between the foot and the toes are in the forefoot category and have 19 bones. Any of these bones can endure an injury, and a broken foot can happen when a bone is bent abnormally or twisted from a sudden accident. A broken heel can happen from landing after jumping from an elevated height. Common symptoms that many people experience with a broken foot consist of immediate swelling, bruising, and tenderness. Additionally, in bad fractures, the bone may protrude through the skin, causing severe pain. This can make it difficult or impossible to walk. If you have broken your foot, it is strongly advised that prompt medical attention is sought from a podiatrist who can perform a correct diagnosis and offer the best treatment solution for you.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Ronald K. Olm from Grand Traverse Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor 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 one of our offices located in Traverse City and Kalkaska, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Most people who have diabetes are aware of the importance of taking proper care of their feet. This often begins with checking the bottom of the feet for existing cuts and scrapes and can be done by using a mirror. A caregiver or family member may be able to help with this task if the patient is unable to perform this. Many diabetic patients develop neuropathy, which is the inability to feel sensations on the feet. This can happen from nerve damage, which may occur from having elevated blood glucose levels. An additional complication of diabetes is poor circulation, which may increase the risk of developing a foot ulcer. Effective management advice for diabetic patients consists of refraining from walking barefoot, trimming the toenails correctly, and implementing a gentle exercise and stretching regime. If you have diabetes, it is strongly urged that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can monitor and help you to manage this condition.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Ronald K. Olm from Grand Traverse Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Traverse City and Kalkaska, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A plantar fibroma is a firm lump that appears on the sole of the foot. These nodules are benign but can cause some pain in the arch when you are standing or walking. Plantar fibromas are about an inch in diameter, and sometimes develop into clusters. These growths do not usually go away on their own, and may need to be removed surgically if they inhibit your daily activities. The cause of plantar fibromas is largely unknown, but a number of conditions may be linked to their formation. A family history of plantar fibromas is the most common risk factor. Men are twice as likely to develop plantar fibromas than women. Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes and liver disease, are believed to be associated with fibroma development. Long term alcohol consumption is considered another risk factor. Healing from repetitive stress to the plantar fascia is thought to be a factor. A number of non-surgical as well as surgical treatments are available to remove plantar fibromas. It is suggested you visit a podiatrist for an exam and the treatment options that are best for you. 

A plantar fibroma may disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Ronald K. Olm of Grand Traverse Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Plantar Fibroma

A plantar fibroma is a fibrous knot in the arch of the foot. It is embedded in the plantar fascia which is a band of tissue that extends from the heel to the toes along the bottom of the foot. There can be multiple plantar fibromas in the feet at the same time. There are no known causes for this condition. If you have a plantar fibroma, there will be a bump in the arch of your foot that cannot be missed. Any associated pain is most often due to a shoe rubbing against the nodule. Non-surgical options, such as steroid injections, physical therapy, and orthotics should be tried first. Surgery is a last resort and is the only thing that will remove a plantar fibroma entirely. Consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and to determine the treatment regimen that is right for you.

What Causes a Plantar Fibroma?

While there are no specific causes identified, a plantar fibroma can possibly come from genetic predisposition or the formation of scar tissue that forms from healing the tears in the plantar fascia.

What Are the Symptoms of a Plantar Fibroma?

There will be a noticeable lump in the arch of the foot that may or may not cause pain. If pain is felt, it is typically because a shoe is rubbing up against the lump or when walking or standing barefoot.

Treatment and Prevention

A plantar fibroma will not disappear without treatment, but it can get smaller and be a non-issue. If pain persists, a podiatrist examines the foot and when the arch of the foot is pressed, pain can be felt down to the toes. An MRI or biopsy might be performed to help diagnose or evaluate the plantar fibroma. The following non-surgical options are generally enough to reduce the size and pain of these nodules:

• Steroid injections
• Orthotics
• Physical therapy to help apply anti-inflammatory creams on the bump 

Surgery is considered if the mass increases in size and the patient continues to feel pain after non-surgical methods are tried.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Traverse City and Kalkaska, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.