August 2023

Foot stress fractures are common injuries that can significantly impact daily life and physical activities. It's essential to understand the basics of these fractures to prevent and manage them effectively. Stress fractures occur due to repetitive stress on the bones, often seen in athletes and runners, especially those who suddenly increase their activity levels. They are tiny cracks in the bone that can be difficult to detect initially, as symptoms may start mild and gradually worsen. Common signs include localized pain, swelling, and tenderness in the affected area. Resting and elevating the affected foot is crucial in the early stages of managing a stress fracture. Seeking prompt medical attention and avoiding weight-bearing activities can prevent further damage. Wearing proper footwear, implementing gradual exercise progression, and incorporating rest days into the routine are essential preventive measures. Understanding foot stress fractures empowers individuals to take proactive steps in maintaining foot health and avoiding potential complications. If you have a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Dr. Blake Zobell from Utah. Our doctor 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 feel free to contact one of our offices located in Richfield and Ephraim, Utah . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle ulcers are open sores on the skin. They are slow to heal, and they can keep returning. The three types of ankle ulcers are venous stasis, diabetic, and arterial ulcers. Venous stasis ulcers are the most common, primarily affecting the ankles. They result from venous hypertension or chronic venous insufficiency, leading to decreased blood flow and oxygen to the tissue and causing damage and ulcer formation. Risk factors include leg swelling, blood clots, varicose veins, inflammatory diseases, and a family history of ulcers. Symptoms may include pain, burning, itching, redness, and the skin may be swollen or discolored. Diagnosis involves a medical history, symptom analysis, and possible tissue sampling. Treatments include compression therapy, medication, and wound care. It is important to keep the ulcer clean and change the dressing as instructed. Prevention of such ulcers involves leg elevation, limiting prolonged standing or sitting, and maintenance of good overall health. If you suffer from ankle ulcers, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and prompt treatment.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Dr. Blake Zobell from Utah. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Richfield and Ephraim, Utah . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Though running with flat feet can be challenging, it is possible to enjoy pain free runs and improve your athletic performance. Having flat feet can alter alignment of the lower extremities, which may result in strain on soft tissues and joints. Choosing the right shoes with adequate arch support is crucial. Proper running technique and posture are also essential for flat footed runners. A podiatrist can advise on the most suitable foot landing, whether forefoot, midfoot, or heel running, and help you to maintain an proper posture during running. Stretching after each run is recommended for flat footed runners. In addition, it is beneficial to alternate running surfaces, which may help to alleviate strain. Non impact equipment, such as elliptical trainers or stair machines, are other alternatives. If you are experiencing problems that stem from having flat feet while running, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer custom orthotics that may address the issue and contribute to pain free running.  

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Blake Zobell from Utah. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

Blisters on the feet appear to be bubbles that are filled with liquid. This can cause irritation and can easily put a damper on our active lives. Understanding their causes can empower us to take better care of our feet. Foot blisters are small, fluid-filled sacs that form on the outermost layer of our skin, resulting from friction, pressure, or irritation. When our skin is subjected to repetitive rubbing against surfaces such as shoes or socks, it responds by separating its layers and accumulating fluid, forming a blister. Friction is the primary cause of foot blisters, especially when ill-fitting shoes or rigorous activities cause excessive rubbing. Additionally, prolonged exposure to moisture from sweat can weaken the skin's protective barrier, making it more susceptible to blisters. High temperatures can also exacerbate friction and contribute to blister development. By understanding the definition and causes of foot blisters, there are proactive measures that can be taken to prevent them. Properly fitting footwear, moisture management, and good foot hygiene can keep these bothersome blisters at bay, allowing us to stay active and comfortable on our feet. It is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist if you are seeking additional prevention techniques for blisters on the feet.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. Blake Zobell of Utah. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Richfield and Ephraim, Utah . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Toenail fungus is generally not a serious foot condition despite its unsightly appearance. Toenail fungus thrives in warm and moist environments, such as public swimming pools, locker rooms, and similar areas. The fungus can enter the body through small cracks in the skin of the feet, so it is beneficial to wear appropriate shoes while in these areas. People who have diabetes, immune system disorders, or nerve damage may be prone to developing toenail fungus. Symptoms can include a thickening of the nail, a change in the nail shape, and in severe cases, the nail may lift or crumble. Prevention methods can include refraining from sharing shoes, towels, and socks, and it is helpful to maintain good foot care. If you have developed toenail fungus, it is strongly suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition, which may include prescribed medication.

For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Blake Zobell of Utah. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

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