Items filtered by date: March 2025

Foot and ankle pain while roller skating can result from several factors, including improper equipment and physical strain. Tight laces can put excessive pressure on the top of the foot, leading to discomfort and restricted circulation. Muscles that are not accustomed to the activity may become fatigued, causing soreness and instability. Overuse from extended skating sessions can strain ligaments and tendons, increasing the risk of inflammation and pain. Individuals with flat feet may experience discomfort due to inadequate arch support, leading to poor foot alignment and added stress on the ankles. Paying attention to technique and muscle conditioning ensures a more comfortable and enjoyable roller skating experience. If you have sustained a foot injury while roller skating, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer relief solutions, and get you back to this enjoyable activity.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Gregory Kranzusch, DPM of Foot and Ankle Center of St. Charles County. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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

Hammertoe is a condition in which a toe bends at the middle joint, causing it to look like a hammer. Hammertoe is often caused by muscle imbalance that leads to pain, stiffness, and difficulty wearing shoes. If conservative treatment measures do not help, a podiatrist may recommend surgery to correct the deformity. The type of procedure depends on the flexibility of the toe. If the toe is still movable, a tendon transfer can help straighten it by repositioning tendons. For a rigid hammertoe, joint resection involves removing a small section of bone to allow the toe to extend. Joint fusion surgery permanently realigns the toe by securing the bones together with pins or screws until they heal. These procedures are typically performed on an outpatient basis, with recovery taking several weeks. Swelling can last for months, but pain generally recedes early in the healing process. Possible risks include infection, nerve damage, or recurrence of the deformity. If you have a painful hammertoe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options, which may include surgery.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Gregory Kranzusch, DPM of Foot and Ankle Center of St. Charles County. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Your feet might know you have diabetes before you do. Changes in sensation, skin texture, and healing can be early signs of nerve and circulation issues. Many people focus on blood sugar numbers, but overlook their feet. That is, until a problem appears. Diabetes can dull the ability to feel pain, so a small cut or blister can go unnoticed and worsen. Skin may become dry and cracked as nerves struggle to regulate moisture, making infections more likely. Poor circulation slows healing, turning minor wounds into major concerns. Even the shape of your feet can shift over time due to muscle imbalances. Ignoring your feet can lead to serious complications, but daily checks, wearing proper footwear, and regular podiatry visits keep them healthy. If you have diabetes, it is suggested that you include a podiatrist on your health care team.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Gregory Kranzusch, DPM from Foot and Ankle Center of St. Charles County. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Gout is a type of arthritis that causes sudden, intense pain, typically in the big toe. It occurs when uric acid builds up in the body, forming crystals in the joints. This leads to swelling, redness, and extreme tenderness. Gout attacks often come on suddenly and can cause the affected joint to feel hot, swollen, and stiff, making even the slightest touch unbearable. A podiatrist can help manage gout by assessing the severity of the attack and offering treatment to reduce pain and inflammation. This type of doctor may recommend anti-inflammatory medication to ease the symptoms. Lifestyle changes, like adjusting diet and managing weight, are also essential in preventing future flare-ups. In some cases, a podiatrist might suggest custom orthotics to provide relief while walking. If you experience recurring pain or have swelling in your toe joints, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat gout.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Gregory Kranzusch, DPM from Foot and Ankle Center of St. Charles County. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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