A calcaneal stress fracture is a small crack in the heel bone that develops over time from repeated impact. It often appears as deep heel pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest, though it can become constant if ignored. Swelling and tenderness in the back or bottom of the heel may also be present. This condition is common in runners, athletes, and individuals who suddenly increase activity levels. It happens when the bone is unable to keep up with repeated stress and begins to weaken. A podiatrist can evaluate the heel through examination and imaging to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment focuses on protecting the bone, reducing strain, and guiding a safe return to activity. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat the problem. 

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from David A. Scalzo, DPM, PC and Associates. Our doctors 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 Duryea, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

An ankle sprain happens when the ligaments that support the ankle are stretched or torn, often after the foot twists awkwardly during walking, sports, or a misstep. While many people assume they should simply rest and wait, proper treatment can help recovery move along more safely. A podiatrist may use specific examination guidelines to decide whether imaging is needed to rule out a fracture. Treatment often includes measures to reduce swelling and discomfort, hands-on techniques to improve joint movement, and supportive bracing or wrapping to protect the ankle while it heals. In many cases, gentle walking is encouraged sooner rather than keeping the ankle completely still for too long, since controlled movement can support recovery. Short-term protection combined with the right treatment plan can help restore strength and stability. If you have ankle pain, swelling, or trouble walking after an injury, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist for appropriate treatment solutions.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact one of our podiatrists from David A. Scalzo, DPM, PC and Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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

Flat feet, also known as pes planus, fallen arches, or posterior tibial tendon dysfunction, occur when the arch of the foot is low or absent. There are different types of flat feet. Flexible flat foot is where the arch appears when not bearing weight but flattens when standing. Rigid flat foot is where the arch remains flattened at all times. Symptoms include pain along the inside of the arch, heel, or ankle, along with fatigue during activity. Causes and risk factors include genetics, tendon weakness, injury, and aging. Without proper support, discomfort can increase. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, recommend supportive footwear or orthotics, and provide treatment to improve comfort and function. If you have flat feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and management tips.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from David A. Scalzo, DPM, PC and Associates. Our doctors 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 our office located in Duryea, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A broken toe may seem minor, but fractures of the toe bones can make running, jumping, and even walking painful. Athletes often feel swelling, bruising, and discomfort when pushing off the ground. Because the toes help with balance and movement, proper healing is important before returning to sports. Treatment depends on how severe the break is. Many toe fractures can heal with rest, taping the injured toe to a neighboring one, and wearing a stiff-soled shoe to protect it. Limiting activity for several weeks allows the bone to recover. Elevation can also help reduce pain and swelling. Surgery may be needed if the bone is out of place, involves the joint, or does not heal correctly. In these cases, small pins or screws may be used to hold the bone in position. A safe return to sports should be gradual and guided by a podiatrist. If you have a toe injury, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from David A. Scalzo, DPM, PC and Associates. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

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