May 2024

Hypophosphatasia, or HPP, is a rare genetic disorder characterized by impaired bone mineralization, leading to skeletal abnormalities and increased susceptibility to fractures. While HPP primarily affects bones throughout the body, including the legs and spine, it can also manifest in the feet, causing a range of complications, including stress fractures. In individuals with HPP, the deficiency of alkaline phosphatase enzyme disrupts the normal bone mineralization process, resulting in weakened bones that are prone to fracture under stress or pressure. Foot stress fractures, particularly in the metatarsal bones or heel, can occur due to repetitive impact or weight-bearing activities, exacerbating the existing skeletal fragility associated with HPP. Recognizing the potential connection between HPP and foot stress fractures is critical for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management strategies. Early intervention, including wearing supportive footwear, orthotic devices, and lifestyle modifications, can help mitigate the risk of fractures and improve the quality of life for individuals living with this rare genetic disease. If you believe you have a foot stress fracture, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can successfully treat these breaks, and determine if HPP is a contributing factor.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Deborah Holte, DPM from Northeast Missouri Foot Clinic. 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 our office located in Kirksville, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Managing the symptoms of foot drop requires a multifaceted approach aimed at addressing its underlying causes while enhancing stability and mobility. The main symptom of foot drop is difficulty lifting the front part of the foot when you take a step. It can stem from muscular weakness, nerve damage in the leg, or injuries to the brain or spinal cord. Treatment with the help of a podiatrist focuses on strengthening the foot, ankle, and lower leg muscles to improve function and compensate for the lack of dorsiflexion. Wearing an ankle-foot orthosis can also provide support by maintaining proper alignment during walking, which reduces the risk of tripping and falling. Electrical nerve stimulation offers another avenue for improvement, facilitating muscle activation and enhancing walking ability in some cases. For severe or long-term foot drop caused by muscle paralysis, surgical intervention may be necessary to restore movement. Home modifications, such as removing clutter and using non-slip rugs, play a vital role in fall prevention. If you are experiencing symptoms of foot drop, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to explore appropriate treatment options.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Deborah Holte, DPM from Northeast Missouri Foot Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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

If you have ever experienced the sharp, stabbing pain of plantar fasciitis, you know how debilitating it can be. Plantar fasciitis, caused by inflammation of the ligament running from the toes to the heel, often results from overuse. However, relief may be closer than you think and involves simple exercises. Begin by sitting with feet flat on the floor, lifting the leg with the sore foot, and placing that ankle on the opposite leg. Flex your toes toward your shin, feeling the stretch under your foot for five seconds, and repeat 10 times. Then, sit with your feet flat and place a frozen water bottle on the floor, rolling it under your foot for one to two minutes, focusing on painful areas. Similarly, use a golf or tennis ball to massage the sole of your foot, targeting painful areas. These simple stretches can provide immense relief, but for a more comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your specific needs, a podiatrist can help. This foot and ankle specialist can offer personalized advice and other methods to address plantar fasciitis effectively. For relief from plantar fasciitis pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist today.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Deborah Holte, DPM  from Northeast Missouri Foot Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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

Blisters between the toes can be a real pain, whether they're caused by friction, insect bites, burns, or infections. These little pockets of fluid can make each step a challenge. Friction is often the main cause of blisters between the toes. When your toes rub against each other or your shoes, the skin becomes irritated and leads to blister formation. Other causes of blisters between the toes include insect bites, burns, and various infections. While most blisters will heal on their own within a week or two, it's essential to resist the urge to pop them. Breaking a blister can increase the risk of infection and prolong the healing process. Instead, keep the blister clean and covered with a bandage. If the blister is particularly painful or shows signs of infection, it's best to seek medical attention from a podiatrist. Preventing blisters between the toes starts with wearing properly fitting shoes and socks. Avoid walking long distances in new shoes, and be sure to change socks if they become damp. If you have persistent or severe blisters between the toes, it is suggested that you seek help from a podiatrist for relief. 

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Deborah Holte, DPM of Northeast Missouri Foot Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often 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.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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