Foot stress fractures and tendonitis are both common foot injuries, but they have distinct differences. A stress fracture is a small crack in the bone caused by repetitive force or overuse. It typically occurs in athletes or individuals who increase their physical activity suddenly. Symptoms of a stress fracture include localized pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest. Tendonitis is inflammation of the tendons, often caused by overuse or wearing improper footwear. This condition leads to pain, swelling, and tenderness surrounding the affected tendon, usually felt during or after activity. While both conditions cause foot pain, a stress fracture will usually cause sharp, focused pain in the bone, while tendonitis presents with more diffuse pain around the tendon area. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment. 

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Anas Khoury, DPM from North Eastern Foot & Ankle Specialists. 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 Passaic, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Feet can hurt while ice skating for several reasons, with the most common being improper fitting skates. If the skates are too tight or too loose, they can cause discomfort and pain by pressing on certain areas of the foot or not providing enough support. Poorly fitted skates may lead to blisters, pinched nerves, or restricted circulation, making skating a painful experience. Another factor is the lack of cushioning or support within the skate itself. Ice skating places a lot of pressure on the feet, especially during sharp turns or jumps. Inadequate arch support or lack of padding can result in soreness or fatigue. Additionally, the stiff structure of ice skates can sometimes cause muscles and tendons in the feet to tense up, leading to discomfort. Overuse or skating for long periods without taking breaks can also contribute to foot pain. If you enjoy ice skating and have foot pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can offer effective relief methods, in addition to tips on how to protect your feet while skating.

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 Anas Khoury, DPM from North Eastern Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor 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 office located in Passaic, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Knee osteoarthritis occurs when cartilage in the knee wears down, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Misaligned foot mechanics can worsen knee stress, making foot health a critical factor in managing this condition. Custom foot orthoses, or CFOs, can be a game-changer for knee osteoarthritis. These specially designed insoles improve foot alignment, reducing excess stress on the knee joint. By optimizing how the feet and legs function together, CFOs can improve knee stability and enhance overall mobility. If you have knee osteoarthritis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to assess foot biomechanics and how they impact knee function, designing orthoses tailored to your specific needs. Regular follow-ups ensure the orthotics provide ongoing support.

Custom orthotics are often an effective solution for people experiencing heel pain, offering both comfort and correction for the underlying causes of discomfort. Heel pain commonly develops when the natural support of the foot becomes strained or imbalanced, leading to inflammation and irritation in the heel area. Conditions such as plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, or flat feet can all contribute to chronic heel pain that worsens with walking or standing. Custom orthotics are designed to fit the exact shape of your foot, providing the support and alignment necessary to reduce stress on the heel and surrounding tissues.

By redistributing pressure and improving overall foot mechanics, custom orthotics allow the heel to function more efficiently during movement. They cushion each step, absorb shock, and correct abnormal gait patterns that may be contributing to pain. Over time, this consistent support can ease inflammation, protect against re-injury, and enhance comfort during both daily and athletic activities.

Unlike prefabricated insoles, custom orthotics are created from a detailed evaluation that may include digital scans or molds of your feet. This ensures a precise and individualized fit that addresses your specific condition. They can be used in various types of footwear, from athletic shoes to dress styles, making them a versatile option for ongoing relief.

If heel pain is limiting your comfort or activity level, it is suggested that you call our office for more information or to schedule an appointment.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Passaic, NJ .