⚠️ Is It Just Sore… or a Stress Fracture? How to Tell When Pain Needs a Closer Look

Is It Just Sore… or a Stress Fracture?

🦶 Don’t Ignore That Nagging Foot or Ankle Pain

After a long run, a workout, or even a busy day on your feet, it’s normal to feel a bit sore. But what if that soreness doesn’t go away—or gets worse with activity? You might be dealing with more than simple overuse. It could be a stress fracture—a small crack in the bone that can lead to major problems if left untreated.

At Family Foot & Leg Center, we want to help you catch the signs early and get on the path to healing before it gets worse.

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🦴 What Is a Stress Fracture?

A stress fracture is a tiny crack in a bone caused by repetitive force or overuse—often from high-impact activities like running, jumping, or walking long distances without enough rest. They're especially common in the feet and ankles, where bones absorb the brunt of your movement.

Stress fractures typically develop over time and may not show immediate symptoms, which is why they’re often mistaken for simple soreness or a muscle strain.

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⚠️ Common Risk Factors

• Runners and athletes

• People starting new or intense fitness routines

• Active adults who are on their feet all day

• Those with osteoporosis or low bone density

• Wearing improper footwear

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🚨 Signs It Might Be a Stress Fracture

Not sure if it’s soreness or something more? Watch for these key symptoms:

• Pinpoint pain: The pain is localized to a specific spot and often sharp or aching.

• Pain worsens with activity: It may feel okay at rest, but flares up during movement.

• Swelling or bruising: Especially over the top of the foot or around the ankle.

• Tenderness to the touch: Pressing the area makes it feel worse.

• Pain that lingers or keeps coming back.

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❌ What Happens If You Ignore It?

Left untreated, a stress fracture can worsen, leading to a complete break in the bone, longer healing time, and even the need for surgery. That’s why early diagnosis and proper treatment are essential.

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✅ What to Do if You Suspect a Stress Fracture

1. Stop high-impact activities immediately. Rest is key.

2. Avoid putting weight on the affected foot.

3. Call a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis. X-rays or advanced imaging may be needed.

4. Follow a personalized recovery plan. This may include protective footwear, immobilization, physical therapy, and a guided return to activity.

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👣 Walk Into Healing with FFLC

At Family Foot & Leg Center, we specialize in diagnosing and treating foot and ankle injuries—including stress fractures. We’ll help you understand what’s going on, provide expert care, and get you back on your feet—safely.

📞 Call us today at 239-430-3668 (FOOT) to schedule your appointment.
Don’t push through the pain. Walk into healing—one step at a time.

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#StressFractureAwareness #FootPainRelief #NaplesPodiatrist #SportsInjuryCare #FFLC #KeepMovingSafely

Dr. Kevin Lam is one of the most experienced foot and ankle surgeons in Florida and offers the latest technologies for foot and ankle issues.

Our approach is rooted in compassion, cutting-edge care, and personalized treatment planning.

You don’t have to live with foot pain. Whether you’re in Naples, Cape Coral, Fort Myers, or anywhere in Southwest Florida, expert care is just a step away.

Enjoy Summer 2025 Without Foot Pain: Stay Active and Comfortable All Season Long

Make the most of Summer 2025 without foot or ankle pain. Discover expert podiatry care from Dr. Kevin Lam at FFLC—so you can enjoy every step, from beach days to backyard fun.

Summer’s Here—Keep Your Feet Feeling Great All Season

Summer is in full swing! Whether you’re enjoying Naples' sandy shores, taking evening walks, traveling, or keeping up with your kids in the backyard, your feet are your foundation for every warm-weather adventure.

But when foot or ankle pain strikes, even simple summer joys can become frustrating. If you're dealing with discomfort, don’t wait until fall—get relief now so you can enjoy the season to the fullest.

Common Foot Problems That Flare Up in Summer

Hot weather, long days on your feet, and less supportive footwear can aggravate foot and ankle issues.

👣 Heel Pain (Plantar Fasciitis) – Especially first thing in the morning or after long walks

👣 Ball-of-Foot and Arch Pain – Often triggered by sandals with poor support

👣 Bunions and Corns – Friction from summer shoes can worsen these

👣 Fat Pad Thinning – Barefoot walking on hard surfaces becomes painful

👣 Ankle Injuries – From hikes, beach activities, or uneven terrain

Summer Foot Care That Works

At Family Foot & Leg Center, our goal is to keep you moving confidently with targeted, effective treatments tailored to your lifestyle.

Treatment options include:

✅ Custom Orthotics that fit into your summer footwear

✅ In-office therapies to reduce pain and inflammation

✅ Minimally invasive procedures for long-lasting relief

✅ Preventive care to avoid future problems

Whether you’re headed to the beach, tackling a travel itinerary, or staying active at home, we’re here to help you stay pain-free.

Tips for Happy Feet All Summer

* Choose supportive, cushioned shoes—even for quick outings

* Avoid going barefoot on hard surfaces for long periods

* Stretch your feet and calves daily

* Apply sunscreen to your feet to avoid burns and blisters

* Stay hydrated to support joint and muscle health

Don’t Let Foot Pain Disrupt Your Summer

Foot discomfort isn't something to “tough out.” Pain is your body’s way of saying something’s not right—and the sooner you address it, the faster you can get back to doing what you love.

📞 Call 239-430-3668 (FOOT) to schedule an appointment

Let this be the summer you enjoy every step—comfortably.

Big Toe Pain & Stiffness? It Might Be Hallux Rigidus

If every step you take feels like you're walking on a stiff, painful big toe joint, you're not alone. Big toe pain is a common complaint among adults—especially those over 40—and one often-overlooked cause is a condition known as hallux rigidus. It’s more than just an ache; it’s a progressive form of arthritis that can significantly impair your daily life.

At Family Foot & Leg Center (FFLC), we help patients across Southwest Florida understand, manage, and overcome the discomfort caused by hallux rigidus using both advanced conservative and surgical treatment options.

What Is Hallux Rigidus?

The term “hallux” refers to the big toe, while “rigidus” implies stiffness. Hallux rigidus is a degenerative arthritis that affects the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint, where the base of the big toe meets the foot. Over time, the cartilage in this joint wears down, causing pain, swelling, stiffness, and restricted movement.

While it may begin as mild discomfort, untreated hallux rigidus can progress to the point where walking, bending, or even standing for long periods becomes painful and difficult.

This condition is often confused with bunions or general foot pain, which is why an accurate diagnosis by a foot and ankle specialist is essential.

### Signs & Symptoms of Hallux Rigidus

Symptoms can range from subtle to severe depending on the stage of the condition. Watch for:

*Pain in the big toe joint, especially during activities like walking, running, or climbing stairs

*Stiffness or decreased range of motion in the toe, particularly when bending it upward (dorsiflexion)

* Swelling and inflammation around the joint

* A noticeable bump or bone spur on top of the toe joint

* Difficulty wearing shoes due to pain or bulging

* Pain that worsens in cold or damp weather

* Altered gait—many patients unconsciously shift weight to the outside of the foot to avoid toe pressure

Over time, the limited range of motion becomes rigid, hence the term "hallux rigidus." The earlier this is identified, the more treatment options are available.

Common Causes of Hallux Rigidus

Several underlying factors can contribute to the development of hallux rigidus:

* Genetics – A family history of foot joint arthritis or structural abnormalities

* Foot structure issues – Flat feet, high arches, or abnormal joint alignment can increase stress on the MTP joint

* Repetitive stress– Jobs or sports involving frequent squatting, stair climbing, or toe bending (like running, soccer, or dancing)

* Previous trauma or injury – Fractures, sprains, or joint damage from the past

* Age-related wear and tear – The condition most often affects adults over 40

Diagnosis: Don't Ignore the Early Warning Signs

The key to preserving function and avoiding surgery is early detection. At the offices of Dr. Kevin Lam, our team uses:

* Clinical evaluation – A hands-on assessment of joint range of motion, pain level, and gait

* X-rays or imaging – To determine cartilage loss, bone spur development, or joint space narrowing

* Gait analysis – To evaluate how your foot mechanics may be contributing to the issue

With a comprehensive understanding of your foot biomechanics and lifestyle, we tailor a treatment plan specific to your needs.

Treatment Options for Hallux Rigidus

Treatment depends on how advanced the arthritis is. At FFLC, we always begin with the most conservative, non-surgical options before considering surgical intervention.

Conservative (Non-Surgical) Options:

* Custom orthotics – Stiff insoles or rocker-bottom shoes reduce pressure on the toe joint

* NSAIDs – Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications help control pain and swelling

* Physical therapy – Stretching, mobilization, and ultrasound can improve mobility and reduce stiffness

* Corticosteroid injections – Targeted relief for inflammation in the joint

* Activity modification – Avoiding high-impact sports or uneven terrain

Many patients can live pain-free for years with the right conservative care.

 When Is Surgery Needed?

If conservative treatments no longer provide relief, or if joint damage is severe, surgical options may be necessary. Dr. Lam and the FFLC surgical team specialize in advanced procedures to restore mobility and relieve pain:

Surgical Options Include:

* Cheilectomy – Removal of bone spurs and part of the metatarsal head to allow smoother joint motion (best for early stages)

* Moberg osteotomy – A bone-cutting procedure to shift joint stress and improve dorsiflexion

* Arthrodesis (Joint Fusion) – Fuses the joint permanently, eliminating pain but sacrificing motion (often used in advanced cases)

* Cartiva Implant – A synthetic cartilage implant that preserves joint movement (FDA-approved and performed by select specialists)

* Joint replacement – Used in severe arthritis where preservation of motion is a priority

Dr. Kevin Lam is one of the most experienced foot and ankle surgeons in Florida and offers the latest technologies for hallux rigidus, including minimally invasive techniques and scar-sparing options.

Our approach is rooted in compassion, cutting-edge care, and personalized treatment planning.

You don’t have to live with foot pain or stiffness. Whether you’re in Naples, Cape Coral, Fort Myers, or anywhere in Southwest Florida, expert care is just a step away.

Ready to Walk Without Pain?

Hallux rigidus is manageable—especially when addressed early. Don’t wait for your toe pain to become debilitating.

📞 Call (239) 430-3668 (FOOT)

Your feet are the foundation of your health. Let us help you stay strong, mobile, and pain-free.

Silent Damage: How Diabetes Can Quietly Harm Your Feet—And What You Can Do About It

When people think about diabetes, blood sugar often takes center stage. But what many don’t realize is that the condition’s most dangerous effects can creep in quietly—especially in your feet.

👣 The Hidden Threat to Diabetic Feet

Over time, diabetes can cause nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor circulation—a dangerous combination that puts your feet at serious risk. What makes it even more alarming is that many people feel little to no pain as the damage progresses.

If you're living with diabetes, here are the warning signs to watch out for:

* Numbness or tingling in the feet or toes

* Slow-healing cuts or wounds

* Hidden injuries that go unnoticed due to lack of sensation

* Infections that can escalate quickly

* Foot ulcers, and in severe cases, amputation

⚠️ You May Not Feel It Until It’s Serious

Because neuropathy reduces sensation, minor injuries like a blister or cut can go undetected. Without proper blood flow, your body struggles to heal—turning small issues into major complications. Many patients don’t realize the extent of the damage until it’s too late.

✅ Early Detection Saves Limbs

The good news? Most diabetic foot complications are preventable.

With regular podiatric checkups, early intervention, and proper foot care, we can catch potential problems before they escalate.

At Family Foot & Leg Center (FFLC), we specialize in comprehensive diabetic foot care. From routine foot checks to wound management and advanced treatments, we’re here to help you stay one step ahead of complications.

👨‍⚕️ Don't Wait—Protect Your Feet Today

If you or a loved one has diabetes, make diabetic foot health a priority.

📞 Schedule your diabetic foot check today: 239-430-3668

🌐 [NaplesPodiatrist.com](http://www.drkevinlam.com/)

Your feet are your foundation—let’s keep you walking.

#DiabeticFootCare #WeKeepYouWalking #FFLC #PodiatristCare #FootHealthMatters #DiabetesAwareness #PreventComplications #NaplesFL