A mid-foot stress fracture is a small crack in one of the bones in the middle of the foot. It often affects the navicular bone, which helps support body weight when walking and running. This fracture develops gradually from repeated impact, such as running, jumping, or sudden increases in activity. Risk factors include training on a hard surface, foot alignment problems, and wearing shoes that lack adequate support. Symptoms include tenderness, swelling, and a deep, aching pain that worsens when bearing weight. Because signs can be subtle, the injury is sometimes missed without proper imaging. A podiatrist can examine the foot, check for areas of pain, and order imaging scans or X-rays to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment options include a cast, custom orthotics, or surgery in more severe cases. If you have symptoms of mid-foot pain, it is suggested that you make 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 Stephanie Tine, DPM from Flamingo Foot and Ankle. 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 Fort Lauderdale, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Morton’s neuroma is a condition involving thickening of nerve tissue in the foot, most commonly located between the third and fourth toes. It often causes pain in the ball of the foot that may feel like burning, tingling, or the sensation of standing on a small object. This condition can develop from irritation or compression of the nerve. Common causes include flat feet, high arches, bunions, repetitive sports activities, and wearing tight or narrow shoes. Symptoms may worsen with walking or prolonged standing. Risk factors include wearing improper footwear, foot structure, and repetitive stress. A podiatrist can help by diagnosing the condition, relieving pressure on the nerve, and recommending supportive care. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose and treat what may be going on.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Stephanie Tine, DPM of Flamingo Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

Limb salvage focuses on preserving a foot or leg when serious conditions threaten tissue health and function. Podiatric care plays a key role in this process, especially for individuals with diabetes, poor circulation, or chronic wounds. Early evaluation allows problems such as ulcers, infection, or pressure-related damage to be identified before they worsen. Treatment may include wound care, pressure relief, infection control, and improving blood flow, when possible. Careful monitoring and regular follow-up help track healing and prevent complications. In some cases, surgical procedures are used to remove damaged tissue or correct deformities that place the limb at risk. Education is also important, as patients need to learn how to protect their feet and recognize early warning signs. With a coordinated approach, many limbs can be preserved and function maintained. If you have a non-healing foot wound or signs of infection, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Diabetic Limb Salvage

Diabetic limb salvage can be an effective way in preventing the need for limb amputation. If you have a foot ulcer and diabetes, consult with Stephanie Tine, DPM from Flamingo Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Diabetic Limb Salvage?

Diabetic limb salvage is the attempt of saving a limb, such as the foot, that has an infected ulcer, from amputation. Podiatrists also try to make sure that there is enough function in the foot after the salvage that it is still usable. Those with diabetes experience poor blood circulation, which prevents proper healing of an ulcer. If the ulcer is left uncheck, it could become infected, which could result in the need for amputation.

Diabetes is the number one cause of non-traumatic amputations in the United States. Amputation has been found to lead to higher mortality rates. This translates into higher healthcare costs, and a reduced quality of life and mobility for amputees. Podiatrists have attempted to increase the prevalence of limb salvage in an attempt to solve these issues.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Limb salvage teams have grown in recent years that utilize a number of different treatments to save the infected limb. This includes podiatrists that specialize in wound care, rehabilitation, orthotics, and surgery. Through a combination of these methods, limb salvage has been found to be an effective treatment for infected limbs, and as an alternative to amputation. Podiatrists will first evaluate the potential for limb salvage and determine if the limb can be saved or must be amputated. 

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

Psoriatic arthritis is a long-term inflammatory condition that can affect the joints, skin, and nails of the feet. Many people experience swelling and pain in the toes, sometimes causing an entire toe to appear enlarged or sausage-shaped. This symptom indicates widespread inflammation within a toe joint and surrounding tissues. Stiffness in the feet and ankles may be worse in the morning or after periods of rest, making walking uncomfortable. Some people develop flattening of the arches or changes in toe position. This can increase pressure on certain areas and lead to corns or calluses. Heel pain may also occur when the inflammation affects the tissue that supports the arch. Nail changes, such as thickening, crumbling, or small dents, also can be early signs. A podiatrist can assess joint swelling, foot structure, and skin or nail problems, and may use imaging tests or recommend supportive footwear or custom orthotics. If you have symptoms of psoriatic arthritis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Stephanie Tine, DPM from Flamingo Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Fort Lauderdale, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.