Dancers combine artistry with the strength and endurance of athletes. Ballet places heavy demands on the feet because dancers repeatedly jump, turn, and balance on the toes. The en pointe position places tremendous force on the forefoot, including the toes and long bones behind them. Years of training help the feet develop the flexibility and control required for this position. Even so, demanding practices and performances can strain tissues or injure bones. Pain should not be dismissed as part of dance, since continuing to dance on an injury can make it more serious.

Stress fractures are tiny cracks that develop when repeated force exceeds the bone's ability to recover. They affect the bones of the forefoot and can cause pain, swelling, and tenderness. Ankle sprains can occur when a landing or turn stretches the ligaments that support the joint. Dancers can develop Achilles tendon injuries from repeated jumping and powerful push-offs. Toenails face pressure inside ballet shoes, especially en pointe. This pressure can lead to bruising beneath a nail, nail separation, or a painful ingrown toenail. Pain at the ball of the foot can develop when repeated pressure irritates joints or soft tissues.

A podiatrist can examine the area, review dance technique, and order imaging tests to identify the cause. X-rays can reveal many fractures, although an MRI or other scan may be needed to detect an early stress fracture. Treatment depends on the injury and its severity. A podiatrist can protect an injured bone with a boot, brace, or other support. The podiatrist can provide padding or custom orthotics to reduce pressure and improve foot alignment. Guidance on shoe fit and a safe return to dance can lower the risk of another injury. Surgery is reserved for severe injuries or problems that do not improve with other care. If you sustain a foot, ankle or toe injury while dancing, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Darlyne Cange, DPM  from Cange Podiatry, DPM, PA. Our doctor 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 our offices located in Glen Burnie and Ellicott City, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.