A broken foot is a fracture that occurs when one or more bones in the foot crack or break due to excessive force, trauma, or repetitive stress. The foot contains a complex structure of bones that support movement and balance, making it susceptible to injury during high-impact activities or accidents. In contrast, a sprained foot involves damage to the ligaments, which are the soft tissues that connect bones. While both injuries may present with similar discomfort, the underlying damage is different, which affects treatment and recovery expectations.

Symptoms of a broken foot often include sharp and immediate pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. Some individuals may experience a visible deformity or hear a snapping sound at the time of injury. Pain usually worsens with movement and does not improve with rest. A sprained foot may also cause swelling and discomfort, but it may allow some level of movement and weight bearing. Tenderness and instability may be present, but the structural integrity of the bone remains intact. Distinguishing between these conditions is important for proper care.

Risk factors for a broken foot include participation in high-impact sports, sudden trauma such as falls, and wearing footwear that does not protect the foot. Environmental hazards like uneven ground or slippery surfaces can also increase risk. Individuals with reduced bone strength or a history of stress injuries may be more vulnerable. Recovery time for a broken foot varies based on severity, but most fractures require several weeks of immobilization followed by gradual rehabilitation. In comparison, a sprain may heal more quickly depending on the extent of ligament damage.

It is important to understand that an accurate diagnosis is essential when dealing with foot injuries. Misidentifying a fracture as a sprain can delay healing and lead to complications. Prompt evaluation helps ensure proper treatment and recovery. If you think you may have broken your foot or have persistent pain after an injury, it is strongly suggested you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Steven Lashley, DPM from Florida. Our doctor 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 office located in Boynton Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Corns and calluses are areas of thickened skin that form when the foot experiences repeated pressure or friction. This is the body’s way of protecting the skin, but the buildup can become painful. Corns are usually smaller and often develop on or between the toes, while calluses tend to be broader and commonly appear on the bottom of the foot. Wearing poorly fitting shoes, foot deformities, walking mechanics, and repeated stress from daily activity can all contribute. Although these areas may seem minor, ongoing pressure can lead to discomfort, skin breakdown, and difficulty walking, especially in people with diabetes or circulation concerns. Treatment focuses on reducing the source of pressure, improving foot support, and safely managing thickened skin. Simply trimming the skin at home does not address the underlying cause. If painful thickened skin continues to return, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for proper evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Steven Lashley, DPM of Florida. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

An ingrown toenail happens when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes drainage. Mild cases may improve within days to a couple of weeks if treated early, but more severe cases can last much longer, especially if infection develops or the nail continues growing into the skin. Wearing tight shoes, improper nail trimming, toe injuries, and naturally curved nails can all increase risk. A podiatrist can determine how advanced the problem is, and provide treatment to relieve pressure and discomfort. Care may include lifting the nail edge, treating infection, or removing part of the nail when needed to prevent repeated problems. Waiting too long can lead to worsening pain and deeper skin involvement. If your toe remains swollen, tender, or shows signs of infection, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for proper treatment.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Steven Lashley, DPM of Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

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