A broken fifth metatarsal affects the bone along the outer edge of the foot. This bone connects the smallest toe to the middle of the foot. A break can follow a sudden twist, landing, or fall. Repeated stress from running or jumping can also cause a small crack. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and bruising near the outside of the foot. Patients may struggle to put weight on the injured foot. Because a sprain can feel similar, an accurate diagnosis is important.

Several types of fractures can affect the fifth metatarsal, and the location of the break influences treatment and healing. A break near the base of the bone can occur when a tendon or ligament pulls off a small piece of bone. This is called an avulsion fracture. A Jones fracture occurs slightly farther along the bone, in an area with limited blood flow. For this reason, a Jones fracture can be slower to heal. A stress fracture usually starts as a tiny crack caused by repeated force. A podiatrist examines the foot, asks how the injury happened, and checks where it hurts. X-rays usually show the break. Additional imaging tests can help when an early stress fracture does not appear clearly.

Treatment aims to hold the bone steady and protect it while it heals. Your podiatrist may prescribe a boot, cast, or crutches based on the type of break. The doctor will also explain how much weight you can place on the foot and when activity can safely increase. Follow-up X-rays help show whether the bone is joining correctly. Surgery may be needed when the bone pieces have shifted, the fracture is not healing, or the patient is extremely active. A podiatrist can also guide the safe return to work, exercise, and sports. If you have injured the outside of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Omega Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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

An ankle sprain occurs when ligaments in the ankle are stretched or torn beyond their normal limits. Volleyball players risk this injury because jumping, landing, and changing direction place sudden stress on the ankle. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight. Risk factors include previous ankle injuries, poor balance, and awkward landings.

Volleyball ankle sprains commonly happen when a player lands on another player’s foot, rolls the ankle while moving, or loses balance while changing direction. A first-degree sprain is mild and involves ligament stretching with minor damage. Pain and swelling are usually limited, and walking may remain possible. A second-degree sprain involves a partial ligament tear, causing pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. A third-degree sprain is the most severe, involving a complete ligament tear. It may cause severe swelling, bruising, and an inability to bear weight.

A podiatrist can evaluate the ankle by reviewing how the injury occurred and checking swelling, movement, and stability. X-rays or imaging tests may be recommended if a fracture is suspected. Treatment depends on the sprain grade and may include rest from volleyball and compression, followed by gradual activity. Severe injuries may require bracing or temporary immobilization.

Preventing another ankle sprain matters because a previous injury can increase the risk of chronic instability. Players should return to volleyball gradually and follow rehabilitation instructions instead of rushing back when pain improves. Supportive volleyball shoes and balance exercises may help protect the ankle. Persistent pain or instability should receive professional attention after a landing injury. If you have sprained your ankle while playing volleyball, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with one of our podiatrists from Omega Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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

Foot health becomes more important with age because the feet experience years of pressure and wear. Older adults may develop changes in the skin, joints, and circulation that affect comfort and mobility. The natural cushioning on the bottoms of the feet may become thinner, making walking less comfortable. Arthritis can cause joint pain and stiffness, while circulation problems may slow the healing of foot injuries. Reduced flexibility can also make foot care more challenging. Because healthy feet support balance and independence, ongoing foot pain or visible changes should not be ignored as a normal part of aging.

Certain foot problems become more common among seniors. Corns, calluses, and thickened toenails may cause discomfort or make footwear difficult to wear. Bunions and other changes in foot shape can alter pressure across the foot and affect walking. Some older adults also develop numbness or reduced sensation, especially when diabetes affects the nerves. These changes may make injuries harder to notice and increase the risk of complications. Foot pain can also change a person’s walking pattern, which may affect balance and mobility. Professional evaluation can identify problems that require treatment and determine whether another condition is contributing to symptoms.

A podiatrist can provide elderly foot care based on each patient’s health, mobility, and foot concerns. During an examination, the podiatrist may assess the skin, toenails, and circulation while checking for areas of pain or unusual pressure. Podiatric care can address problems such as painful nails, calluses, and foot deformities. A podiatrist can also monitor changes related to diabetes or poor circulation and coordinate care with other health care professionals when needed. Regular podiatric evaluations can help older adults maintain comfort, mobility, and overall foot health. If foot pain, skin changes, or mobility problems are affecting you or an older family member, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists of Omega Podiatry. Our doctors 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 Los Angeles, Huntington Park, and Reseda, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet. It frequently begins between the toes, where moisture can collect. The fungus grows well in warm, damp environments, including locker rooms, swimming pool areas, and public showers. It can spread through direct contact with infected skin or contaminated surfaces. Shoes can also create a warm environment that encourages fungal growth, especially when feet sweat heavily. Although the name suggests a sports-related problem, athlete’s foot can affect anyone who comes into contact with the fungus.

Symptoms can vary depending on the area of the foot involved. The skin between the toes can become cracked, peeling, or scaly. Itching, burning, and stinging can also occur. Some patients develop blisters or dry skin along the soles and sides of the feet. Athlete’s foot can spread to the toenails, making the infection more difficult to treat successfully and completely. Scratching infected skin and then touching another part of the body can spread the fungus. Because other skin problems can look similar, an accurate diagnosis is important before treatment begins.

A podiatrist can examine the affected skin and determine whether a fungal infection is causing the symptoms. When the diagnosis is uncertain, testing a small skin sample can help identify fungus. Treatment includes antifungal medication applied to the skin or, in more stubborn cases, oral medicine may be prescribed.  A podiatrist can also evaluate recurring infections and look for factors that allow the fungus to return. Following the prescribed treatment for the full recommended period is important because stopping too early can allow the infection to remain. If you have symptoms of athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions. 

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists from Omega Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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