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A foot stress fracture is a small crack in a bone that develops due to repetitive stress rather than a sudden injury. It commonly occurs in athletes, especially runners, and individuals who engage in high-impact activities. Causes include overuse, sudden increases in physical activity, and inadequate rest between workouts. Symptoms often begin with mild discomfort that worsens with weight-bearing activities, progressing to persistent pain, swelling, and tenderness in the affected area. Risk factors include footwear that lacks adequate support and cushioning, poor biomechanics, and conditions like osteoporosis that weaken bones. Individuals with a history of stress fractures or nutritional deficiencies may also be more susceptible. If you have symptoms of a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat this condition.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Dr. Charles Marchese from Manalapan Foot & Ankle. 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 feel free to contact our offices located in Manalapan, NJ, and Staten Island, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

As the body ages, maintaining your balance can become more difficult due to physical changes that affect stability. Loss of muscle mass weakens the legs and feet, reducing support and increasing the risk of falls. A decline in joint flexibility makes movements less fluid, leading to stiffness that affects foot positioning and walking patterns. Slowed reflexes reduce the body's ability to adjust quickly, making it harder to react to uneven surfaces or sudden shifts in weight. These changes can cause foot fatigue, instability, and a higher risk of sprains or fractures. Strengthening exercises, stretching, and activities like yoga or tai chi help improve muscle function and flexibility. If you notice changes in your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer specific exercises to improve balance.

If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Charles Marchese of Manalapan Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Manalapan, NJ, and Staten Island, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Flat feet can cause pain in the arches, heels, or along the inside of the ankles, especially after standing for long periods or engaging in physical activity. Some people may experience swelling near the ankle or general foot fatigue. Children with persistent foot or ankle pain should be evaluated to determine if flat feet are causing the problem. A podiatrist can assess flat feet by examining your foot structure, checking for an arch when you stand on your toes, and reviewing wear patterns on your shoes. If pain is present, imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans may be used to examine bones, joints, and soft tissues. Treatment focuses on reducing pain and preventing complications. Wearing supportive shoes and custom orthotics can help improve foot alignment and relieve strain from flat feet. In more severe cases, surgery may be required to repair any damaged tendons or realign foot structures. Without treatment, flat feet may contribute to tendonitis or joint pain. If you have foot pain related to flat feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Charles Marchese from Manalapan Foot & Ankle. Our doctor 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 offices located in Manalapan, NJ, and Staten Island, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.