Stress fractures are small cracks in a bone that develop from repeated stress rather than a single injury. They are common in the feet because the foot bones absorb pressure with every step. Running, jumping, and other high-impact activities can place repeated force on the same area of bone. When the bone breaks down faster than the body can repair it, a stress fracture can occur. People who suddenly increase exercise levels are at greater risk. Wearing shoes that lack adequate support can also contribute to these injuries. Common symptoms include pain, swelling, and tenderness that become worse with activity and improve with rest.

A podiatrist will examine the foot and ask about recent activities and symptoms. X-rays are often used first, although small stress fractures are not always visible. More detailed imaging, such as an MRI, can help identify tiny cracks in the bone. Once a stress fracture is confirmed, treatment focuses on protecting the injured area while the bone heals. This usually means limiting activities that place pressure on the foot. A walking boot, brace, or crutches can help reduce stress on the injured bone.

Healing a stress fracture requires patience because bone repair takes several weeks. Returning to sports or exercise too soon can delay healing and increase the risk of another fracture. A podiatrist can monitor recovery and determine when it is safe to resume normal activities. Treatment also includes identifying the cause of the injury. This can involve evaluating footwear, activity levels, and foot structure. Addressing these factors helps reduce the chance of future stress fractures. If you believe you have a sustained foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and diagnosis.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Afshin Javaherian, DPM from Dr. Java Foot & Ankle Clinic. 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 Los Angeles, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Teen athletes place repeated strain on their feet through running, jumping, pivoting, and high-impact training. While stress injuries are often associated with larger foot bones, smaller toe bones can also develop tiny cracks from overuse. Pain in the second toe, especially near its base, may be mistaken for a sprain, jammed toe, or simple soreness, which can delay proper diagnosis. Symptoms may include swelling, tenderness, pain with movement, or discomfort that worsens during sports activity. Because these injuries are less commonly suspected, they may be overlooked without a careful examination and appropriate imaging. Early diagnosis is important to prevent worsening injury and allow proper healing before returning to activity. Young athletes with persistent toe pain should not assume the issue is minor, especially when symptoms continue despite rest. If your teen has consistent foot or toe pain related to sports, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for evaluation.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Afshin Javaherian, DPM of Dr. Java Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Los Angeles, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Heel pain develops when the structures supporting the heel become irritated or overworked. Activities such as walking, jumping, and running place constant pressure on the feet, which can lead to inflammation or small tissue injuries over time. It often appears as a sharp or dull ache in the bottom or back of the heel, especially during the first steps in the morning or after rest. Repetitive stress, tight calf muscles, and lack of proper support can all contribute to its development. While stretching may help maintain flexibility in the surrounding muscles, ongoing pain may signal a deeper issue. A podiatrist can evaluate the cause of heel pain, check foot alignment, and recommend targeted treatment options to improve comfort and movement. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is and offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Afshin Javaherian, DPM of Dr. Java Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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

Falls related to balance problems can happen when the body loses its ability to stay steady during movement or while standing still. This condition may appear as unsteadiness, dizziness, or a feeling that the ground is shifting underfoot. Causes often include vision problems that affect depth perception, inner ear issues that disrupt equilibrium, and nerve damage such as neuropathy that reduces sensation in the feet. When the feet cannot properly feel the ground, it becomes harder to react quickly and maintain stability. A podiatrist plays an important role by evaluating foot structure, nerve function, and gait patterns. They can identify underlying concerns, recommend supportive devices, and coordinate care to reduce the risk of further injury. If you have injured your foot or ankle from falling, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief, treatment, and prevention techniques.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Afshin Javaherian, DPM from Dr. Java Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

Metatarsalgia  is pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot, often where the metatarsal bones are located. It typically develops when there is excessive pressure on the front of the foot while walking, running, or standing. Common causes include high-impact activities, improper footwear, foot deformities, or abnormal weight distribution. People with metatarsalgia may feel a sharp, aching, or burning sensation in the ball of the foot that worsens with activity and improves with rest. It can also feel like walking on a pebble or having a bruised area under the foot. A podiatrist can evaluate foot mechanics, identify pressure points, and provide treatment such as orthotic support or gait correction to reduce pain. If you have ongoing forefoot discomfort, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Afshin Javaherian, DPM from Dr. Java Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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