A hairline fracture is a very small break in a bone that can cause significant discomfort, even though it may not be obvious at first. Many people notice a gradual increase in pain during walking or standing, especially after repetitive activity. Swelling, tenderness, and mild bruising may appear, and the discomfort often improves with rest but quickly returns with movement. These tiny cracks commonly develop from overuse, wearing improper footwear, or sudden increases in activity levels. Without early attention, the injury can worsen and interfere with mobility. Recognizing the signs promptly helps protect long-term foot health and supports a smoother recovery. If you notice persistent soreness, swelling, or pain that intensifies with activity, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Robert Dunne, DPM from Lake Washington Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Melbourne and Palm Bay, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Runners push their feet through repetitive impact, quick transitions, and changing terrains, which makes certain running injuries more likely to develop. Sore arches, tight calves, and aching heels are common early signs that the tissues are working harder than they should. Over time, this strain can lead to plantar fasciitis, stress reactions in the bones, tendon irritation, or painful blisters that make every step feel more demanding. Some runners also notice numbness, burning, or tingling when shoes are too tight or if the foot structure needs more support. These issues often start small, but can quickly disrupt training if ignored. Paying attention to shoe fit, gradually increasing mileage, and allowing proper recovery between runs can make a significant difference. Listening to early symptoms helps prevent long-term injury and keeps running enjoyable. If discomfort persists, interferes with your stride, or continues after rest, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for evaluation and appropriate care.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Robert Dunne, DPM of Lake Washington Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries? 
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

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

Falls at home often occur because of poor balance, reduced foot strength, or problems with sensation in the feet. When the muscles, joints, or nerves in the feet and ankles are weak or painful, balance can become unstable, increasing the chance of tripping. Wearing shoes that lack adequate support, such as flip-flops or worn-out slippers, can also make the feet more vulnerable to slipping. Proper footwear with firm soles and a secure fit helps improve stability and reduce strain on the arches and ankles. People with neuropathy, bunions, or arthritis can have difficulty sensing uneven ground or adjusting quickly to changes in surface texture. A podiatrist can assess foot strength, check for nerve or circulation problems, prescribe custom orthotics to improve balance, and recommend footwear that supports safer walking. If you are at risk for falling, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Robert Dunne, DPM from Lake Washington Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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