An avulsion fracture occurs when a small piece of bone is pulled away by a tendon or ligament after a sudden force or twisting motion. In the foot, these injuries can affect several areas. The most frequent type involves the fifth metatarsal, located on the outer edge of the foot, often resulting from rolling the ankle outward. The calcaneus, or heel bone, can also experience an avulsion fracture at the back where the Achilles tendon attaches. Less common sites include the cuboid, navicular, and talus bones, where strong tendons can pull off small bone fragments during intense movements. Symptoms of avulsion fractures include swelling, bruising, and pain that worsens with walking or bearing weight. A podiatrist can diagnose the specific fracture location using imaging and determine whether immobilization or surgery is necessary to restore alignment and prevent chronic pain. If you have unexplained foot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and suggested treatment.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from PA Foot & Ankle Associates. 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 one of our offices located in Allentown, Easton, Northampton, and Chew Street in Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Many people experience common foot problems that can affect daily comfort and mobility. Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection causing itching, redness, and peeling, often treated with antifungal creams and keeping feet dry. Blisters result from friction or pressure, relieved by padding, protective footwear, and proper hygiene. Bunions are bony bumps at the base of the big toe caused by genetics or tight shoes, eased with orthotics, wider shoes, and sometimes surgery. Corns develop from repeated pressure and friction, relieved with cushioning, wearing proper footwear, and professional removal. A podiatrist can diagnose these conditions, provide targeted treatments, recommend footwear, and offer preventive strategies to protect foot health. If you have any type of foot or ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions. 

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from PA Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Allentown, Easton, Northampton, and Chew Street in Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Flat feet occur when the arch of the foot is low or collapsed, causing the sole to lie closer to or fully touch the ground. This alignment shift can lead to overpronation, uneven pressure on foot structures, and discomfort in the feet, legs, or knees. Orthotics can help by providing support beneath the medial arch and redistributing forces more evenly across the foot. A well-designed orthotic may include an arch support or medial posting to control excessive inward roll. This can reduce strain on soft tissues and joints. By realigning the foot and stabilizing motion, orthotics can lessen peak pressure zones, enhance balance, and improve walking efficiency. With consistent use, such support may reduce pain, improve comfort during daily activity, and limit stress on adjoining joints. If you have flat feet and would like more comfort during daily activity, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss how custom orthotics can benefit you.

Custom orthotics are specialized shoe inserts created to support and align the feet according to each person’s unique structure and walking pattern. They are an effective way to relieve foot discomfort caused by conditions such as flat feet, high arches, plantar fasciitis, bunions, and heel pain. When the natural alignment of the foot is off balance, it can lead to pressure points, strain, and pain that affect how a person stands, walks, and moves. Orthotics work by redistributing weight evenly and supporting the arch to reduce stress on the muscles, tendons, and joints of the feet and lower legs.

Foot discomfort can develop for many reasons, including wearing improper footwear, long hours of standing, repetitive motion, or underlying structural problems. Over time, this discomfort can extend beyond the feet, contributing to knee, hip, or lower back pain. Custom orthotics help correct these issues by improving alignment and promoting more efficient movement. They are made using precise measurements and imaging to ensure the best fit for each patient, providing targeted support and cushioning where it is needed most.

Unlike generic insoles, custom orthotics are durable, medically designed, and tailored to your specific needs. Whether you are managing chronic pain, recovering from an injury, or simply seeking better comfort and stability, orthotics can make a noticeable difference in how your feet feel throughout the day.

If you are experiencing persistent foot discomfort or fatigue, it may be time to have your feet evaluated by a podiatrist. Call our office today for more information or to schedule an appointment.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Allentown, Easton, Northampton, and Chew Street in Allentown, PA .