Understanding Ankle Fractures: A Comprehensive Guide by Dr. Nathan Hansen at Hansen Foot & Ankle Apr 08, 2024Ankle fractures are common injuries that can significantly impact your mobility and quality of life. At Hansen Foot & Ankle, we specialize in diagnosing, treating, and managing ankle fractures to help our patients regain their strength and confidence.
Your Ultimate Guide to Ingrown Toenail Relief: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective TreatmentsFeb 24, 2024Suffering from ingrown toenail pain? Our ultimate guide provides essential insights into ingrown toenail causes, symptoms, and treatments to help you find relief.
"Is This a Bunion?” Understanding and Addressing Foot PainFeb 07, 2024You may be wondering if that prominent bone on your foot is a bunion, and what steps you could take to alleviate your foot pain. This blog by Dr. Nathan Hansen at Hansen Foot and Ankle, in Mill Creek, Washington aims to educate readers about bunions.
New Year’s Resolutions for Happy and Healthy Feet!Jan 02, 2024In this blog post, Dr. Nathan Hansen at Hansen Foot & Ankle (Mill Creek, WA), explores some New Year's resolutions geared towards ensuring your feet stay happy and healthy in 2024!
4 Reasons to Consider Bunion SurgeryDec 15, 2023Are you sidelined with a painful bunion? Perhaps you’ve tried conservative treatments. You still have foot pain from this deformity on the side of your big toe. Learn when it’s time to consider surgery.
Ankle Fractures: When Is Surgery Necessary?Nov 03, 2023If the break is severe, you may need ankle surgery for your ankle fracture. Read on to learn more about ankle fractures and when surgery is necessary.
When Do Warts Become a Health Concern? Oct 17, 2023There are almost as many folk cures for warts as for hiccups. Most of us don’t think of warts as serious, but sometimes they require medical treatment.
Recognizing the Signs of Diabetic Foot ProblemsSep 01, 2023Diabetes affects many parts of the body, including the feet. Without prompt attention, a diabetic foot problem can turn into a serious medical issue. Learn how to recognize the signs so you can get help immediately.
How Custom Orthotics Can Change Your LifeAug 01, 2023Foot problems can make it difficult to go about your daily life with ease. Thankfully, custom orthotics can go a long way in turning that around. Learn what benefits to look forward to.
Do High Heels Fuel Bunion Pain?Jul 01, 2023High heels are a common item in most women’s wardrobes, and some jobs even make wearing heels a requirement of employment for women. But could these shoes be destroying your feet?
Tips for Running When You Have Flat FeetJun 01, 2023Having flat feet can make running and other activities more challenging but not impossible. Strengthening your feet and wearing the right shoes can help. Learn more tips about running with flat feet.
How to Know If Your Ingrown Toenail Is InfectedMay 03, 2023Having an ingrown toenail is common, but they can be serious, as they have the potential to lead to infection. Find out how to tell if your ingrown toenail is infected and how it’s treated here.
What to Expect When Recovering From Achilles Tendon SurgeryFeb 10, 2023Achilles tendon surgery restores a damaged or torn tendon. After surgery, you’ll need to take time to heal. What can you expect from your post-surgery recovery? Read to learn more.
Achilles Tendinitis: The Overuse Injury Every Runner Should Know AboutJan 03, 2023If you’re a runner or active athlete, don’t let yourself get sidelined by Achilles tendinitis. Read to learn more about how to prevent and treat this common type of overuse injury.
Bad Habits That Exacerbate Your Plantar FasciitisDec 01, 2022Is plantar fasciitis ruining your life? Bad habits can make your condition worse. Taking another look at your lifestyle might be vital to helping treatments be more effective.
8 Ways to Treat Your Sports InjuryNov 07, 2022If you’re battling sports-related pain or an injury, personalized care helps get you off the bench and back in the game safely and in less time. Keep reading to learn about eight ways we can treat your sports injury.
What Is a Podiatrist and When Should I See One?Sep 01, 2022You probably know a podiatrist is a foot doctor, but do you know what they actually do and when you should see one? Read on to find out!
When Do Bunions Require Surgery?Aug 01, 2022Bunions can be a real pain. If this common foot deformity prevents you from living your life to the fullest, it may be time to find a solution to relieve your pain. Learn if surgery might be the best option for you.
Shin Splints vs. Stress Fractures in RunnersJul 01, 2022If you’re highly active, it's important to know what’s causing your pain and what to do about it. If you’re feeling discomfort in your legs, it could be a sign of shin splints or stress fractures — serious conditions that can sideline you for weeks.
How to Keep a Sprained Ankle from Becoming a Chronic InstabilityJun 01, 2022It doesn’t matter if you’re a serious competitor or a weekend walker; you’re not immune from ankle sprains. They’re common for people of all ages and activity levels. Without proper attention, a sprain can turn into chronic ankle instability.
The Most Common Ankle and Foot Sports Injuries and How to Prevent ThemMay 19, 2022Your favorite sports may be putting too much stress on your feet and ankles. If you’re not careful, sports injuries can take you out of the game for good. Learn more about common foot and ankle sports injuries and how to prevent them.
Orthotics: Store-Bought vs. CustomApr 01, 2022Foot pain can keep you from living an active life. When pain stops you in your tracks, it’s time to learn more about orthotic shoe inserts. Keep reading to learn the difference between store-bought and custom, and what custom orthotics could do for health.
Recognizing the Signs of TendonitisMar 18, 2022How do you know if the pain you feel is tendonitis or a muscle strain? The symptoms are similar, but you can distinguish the two conditions by where the pain is felt.
When Does an Ingrown Toenail Require Medical Assistance?Feb 28, 2022People of all ages get ingrown toenails. Most ingrown toenails aren’t serious and can be treated at home. Here’s how to know when to see a doctor for an ingrown toenail.
How Ankle Sprains OccurJan 25, 2022Ankle sprains result when the ligaments, which connect the bones to each other, get overstretched or torn. Common signs of an ankle sprain include a “snap” or “crack” sound at the moment of injury. Sprains can also lead to bruising, swelling, and...
Your Baby’s Foot DevelopmentJan 18, 2022If you’ve ever stopped to look at your baby’s feet, you’ve likely noticed that they are different from a typical adult’s feet. Rather than being born with fully-formed, mini adult feet, children’s feet go through several stages of development.
What Is Juvenile Arthritis?Jan 11, 2022Many people associate arthritis with aging and the elderly. While it is true that certain types of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis, are most often seen in older adults, arthritis is not exclusively a disease of aging.
Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?Jan 08, 2022Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!
How Do I Know if My Sneakers Fit Properly?Jan 05, 2022When it comes to finding the right shoes, it can sometimes be difficult to tell if the shoes fit you properly. Many people believe that shoes need to be “broken in” the first few times that they are worn to be comfortable, but this is not the case.
What Can I Do About Ingrown Toenails?Dec 28, 2021Ingrown toenails can cause a great deal of pain and far more serious problems, especially if left untreated. Ingrown toenails can develop when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin of the toe.
Benefits of Wearing Custom OrthoticsDec 21, 2021Many people wear generic shoe inserts and insoles to alleviate minor discomfort in the feet while walking or exercising. But if you have frequent or chronic heel and foot pain, you may be a candidate for custom orthotics.
Finding the Right Shoes for Flat FeetDec 14, 2021Many people who have flat feet don’t even know it, because when you are not bearing weight, the arch is visible. Symptoms of flat feet include painful or achy feet; swelling on the inner side of the feet; leg and back pain; and feet that get tired easily.
Heel Pain Can Be Treated!Dec 09, 2021Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek the professional help of your podiatrist and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.
How Can I Get Rid of Warts on My Feet?Dec 07, 2021If you spend a lot of time in gym locker rooms or at swimming pools, you may end up noticing growths on the bottom of your feet. These are known as plantar warts. They are caused by a virus (human papillomavirus or HPV) that infects the soles of your feet.
Why Is My Ankle Aching?Nov 30, 2021Ankle pain can have many possible causes. Ankle sprains, which occur when a ligament in the ankle is overstretched or torn, are one of the most common ankle injuries. An ankle sprain can happen while playing sports, exercising, or even just twisting...
Why You Should Never Ignore Any Fracture in Your ToeNov 23, 2021Fractures in the toes and metatarsals (long bones in the midfoot that connect to the toe bones) can be quite painful and should not be taken lightly. Breaks can either be traumatic (acute) that occur instantly due to an injury, or...
How to Treat Heel SpursNov 16, 2021Heel spurs are calcium deposits that cause bone protrusions on the heel bone. Heel spurs are usually associated with plantar fasciitis, which occurs when the plantar fasciitis in the foot becomes inflamed. Typically, heel spurs don’t cause any symptoms.
Why Heel Spurs FormNov 16, 2021Heel Spurs are calcium deposits that form on the bottom of the heel near the arch. This area of the foot is referred to as the plantar fascia. Heel spurs can occur when the heel bone and plantar fascia are exposed to repeated stress.
Geriatrics and PodiatryNov 09, 2021Bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough and brittle nails are some of the common problems that can occur as people age. The effect that these problems has on foot health should be of particular concern in comprehensive geriatric care.
It's Time for Beautiful FeetNov 09, 2021You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.
How Older Adults Can Promote Foot and Ankle HealthNov 09, 2021With age comes drier skin, brittle nails, decreased cushioning on bones, and even poor circulation. All of these factors can make foot and ankle health challenging. That is why it is important for older adults to be proactive about their foot and...
Understanding and Diagnosing Vascular DiseaseNov 02, 2021Vascular diseases affect the circulatory system and can involve blood disorders or abnormalities in the arteries, veins, or lymph vessels. Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is a type of vascular disease which causes a narrowing or blockage...
Ways to Avoid Falling at HomeOct 26, 2021Falling is one of the leading causes of injury among those older than 65. In fact, one out of every 4 seniors will fall each year. Thankfully, there are plenty of simple things that can be done in order to prevent falls in the home.
Orthoses and Night Splints May Help Your Plantar FasciitisOct 19, 2021Plantar fasciitis is a very common source of heel pain. It occurs when the long, fibrous tissue running along the bottom of the foot (plantar fascia) becomes stressed, torn, or otherwise damaged and inflamed.
Skin Care For Cracked HeelsOct 12, 2021While cracked heels can be unsightly, they are not merely a cosmetic concern. In some cases, the cracks in the skin can become so deep that they cause pain, bleed, and become infected. To avoid this, it is important to moisturize your feet on...
Wounds That Don't Heal Need to Be CheckedOct 10, 2021Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.
Lessening the Impact Flip Flops Have On Your FeetOct 05, 2021Flip-flops are not the best type of footwear because they typically do not offer the support, structure, or cushioning your feet need. However, wearing them in places like public pools, locker rooms, and showers is a good way to protect your feet from...
Common Sports Injuries and How to Avoid ThemSep 29, 2021Sports related injuries are generally broken down into direct impact injuries, overuse injuries, and injuries that apply more force to an area of the body than it can structurally support. Some of the most common sports injuries involve joint damage,...
Foot Care Tips for Diabetic PatientsSep 21, 2021Because of the potential loss of feeling in the feet, diabetic patients must be mindful of their everyday foot health in order to avoid more serious issues. First, diabetic patients should check their feet daily for any cuts, blisters, nail problems,...
Who Should I See To Treat Toenail Fungus?Sep 14, 2021Your podiatrist can help you take care of not only your feet and ankles, but also your toenails. One very common condition that podiatrists treat are fungal toenail infections. These infections often start as athlete’s foot, a skin infection,...
Do Your Child's Feet Hurt?Sep 10, 2021Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.
Where Do Heel Spurs Form?Sep 07, 2021Heel spurs are bony growths that can develop on the heels, usually due to small, repetitive traumas to the area. Heel spurs may develop from exercising, wearing poorly-fitted shoes, carrying excess body weight, or having an abnormal gait or arthritis.
Treatments for Athlete’s Foot BlistersSep 01, 2021Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection of the skin of the feet. It is characterized by a red, itchy, peeling rash on the soles of the feet or in between the toes. Athlete’s foot can also cause blisters to form on the feet.
Two Common Types of Ankle InjuriesAug 25, 2021The ankle is a complex joint composed of bones and ligaments. It is critical for movement and balance. Because the ankle works so hard during walking, running, and jumping, it can become sprained, or fractured—especially during sports and...
How to Lessen the Impact of High Heels on Your FeetAug 17, 2021If you love high heels, you should be aware that wearing them regularly can take a toll on your feet and may lead to conditions like hammertoes, corns, bunions, Morton’s neuroma, plantar fasciitis, Haglund's deformity (pump bump), and more.
Why Live with Pain and Numbness in Your Feet?Aug 11, 2021Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.
Stress Fractures in the Front of the FootAug 10, 2021There are five long metatarsal bones in the front of the foot which connect the toes with the tarsal bones of the mid-and-hind-foot. These metatarsals bear a great deal of weight during walking, running and jumping, which makes them more susceptible...
The Facts on Foot CornsAug 03, 2021A corn is a raised, thickened, circular area of skin surrounded by a yellowish ring which typically forms on the top or in between the toes, as well as on the ball of the foot. Corns are caused by pressure or friction—usually from tight shoes...
Parts of a Running ShoeJul 27, 2021If you are a runner looking for the ideal pair of shoes that best fit your specific needs, it may help to have an understanding of the different parts of a running shoe and what they do. The “upper” is any part of the shoe above the sole.
Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot TypeJul 27, 2021Running may seem like a simple to do. However, running is actually a complex movement that puts stress on the ligaments, bones, and joints of the body. Selecting the correct running shoe is important for increasing performance and avoiding risk of injury.
Signs of Cuboid SyndromeJul 20, 2021The cuboid is a cube-shaped bone located in the middle of your foot. This bone can become injured or dislocated following an injury to the foot. People who play sports that put a lot of stress on the feet and people with notable overpronation of...
The Most Common Cause Of Heel PainJul 13, 2021Heel pain is a common ailment which may be caused by an irritation of the nerves, arthritis, tendonitis, stress fractures in the heel, a cyst, or—most commonly—plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia...
Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?Jul 12, 2021If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!
Should I Treat My Bunions?Jul 06, 2021Bunions are bony growths that appear on the outer side of the foot at the base of the big toe joint. This is a deformity that may cause pain, swelling, redness, and difficulty wearing shoes and while walking.
How Do I Get Rid Of a Foot Blister?Jun 29, 2021Blisters often occur on the feet due to friction from shoes or socks rubbing against a part of the foot while you walk. Fortunately, blisters usually don’t require any special care and typically go away on their own.
What Are Sesamoids and Are They Important? Jun 22, 2021Although they are small, the two sesamoid bones within the tendon under the big toe joint have three big responsibilities. First, they act as weight-bearing aids to the first metatarsal bone. Secondly, they facilitate normal movement of the big toe.
Diabetic Foot ProblemsJun 16, 2021Diabetes is a systemic condition, meaning that it can affect the entire body. One of the often overlooked parts of the body that diabetes can affect are the feet. People with diabetes are more likely to suffer from various foot conditions.
Do You Suffer From Painful Feet?Jun 12, 2021Painful deformities, such as hammertoes, can be treated. Stop living with foot pain, and have beautiful feet again!
How to Prevent Falling at HomeJun 08, 2021Falls are a major cause of injury and disability among older adults. One of the most common places that seniors fall is in their own homes. This can be prevented by making several modifications to the living space.
Falls PreventionJun 08, 2021Elderly Americans are very susceptible to falls as they get older. Everyone experiences decreases in flexibility, balance, strength, and the senses as they age. This correlates to some eye-opening statistics.
What is Joint Replacement Surgery in the Ankle?Jun 01, 2021The ankle is a joint that connects the foot with the leg. When this joint becomes damaged from severe arthritis, joint replacement surgery may be an option for some patients to reduce pain, improve mobility and increase joint stability.
Why Does the Bottom of My Foot Hurt?May 25, 2021Pain in the bottom of the foot can have a variety of causes. Wearing ill-fitting shoes or putting excessive strain on the foot may be responsible for your foot pain. If you feel pain in the bottom of your foot immediately after exercising or see...
Take Five, and Give Your Feet a BreakMay 18, 2021People who work all day on their feet can experience throbbing, painful feet at the end of a shift. Along with putting your feet up during work breaks and standing on a cushioned mat, a few simple exercises after hours may help to alleviate the swelling...
Plantar Warts Can Be Treated!May 13, 2021Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!
Can Having Regular Pedicures Help to Heal Cracked Heels?May 10, 2021A common reason why the foot condition that is known as cracked heels can develop is due to thyroid disease. Additionally, it may happen from wearing shoes that have an open back, or from a vitamin deficiency.
Factors That Lead to Turf ToeMay 03, 2021Turf toe is a very common sports injury, particularly among football players and soccer players. It occurs when the big toe joint is sprained because of a repetitive upward bending of the joint that often occurs from jamming the toe, or pushing off...
What Can a Doppler Ultrasound Detect?Apr 26, 2021If your podiatrist suspects that you have poor circulation in your lower limbs they may suggest having a Doppler ultrasound exam performed. A Doppler ultrasound is an imaging study that uses sound waves to measure the amount of blood flow...
What Happens When Corns Rub You the Wrong WayApr 19, 2021While corns and calluses can be mistaken easily, corns can be harder and painful to touch because they are the result of inflamed skin due to friction or pressure. Hard corns are the most common, while soft corns are rubbery and light in color...
Arthritis Can Cause Pain in the Feet and AnklesApr 13, 2021If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.
Is Bunion Surgery an Option?Apr 12, 2021Patients who are afflicted with a bunion may choose to have surgery that can permanently repair this foot condition. A bunion is defined as a large, bony protrusion that develops on the bottom of the big toe. =
Plantar WartsApr 05, 2021Plantar warts are growths that typically appear on the heels or other weight-bearing areas of the feet. These warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). The virus enters the body through breaks in the skin, such as cuts,...
What Are Foot Warts?Apr 05, 2021Have you noticed hard, coarse bumps of skin on your feet? If so, you may have foot warts. Plantar warts are tough lumps that may appear on the bottom of the foot. The lumps are usually circular and have tiny black dots in the middle.
Elevation May Bring Relief to Stress Fractures in the FeetMar 29, 2021The bones that are located in the feet can be affected by stress fractures. Stress fractures are hairline fractures that can gradually develop from overuse. They can form as a result of a sudden change in footwear, running on uneven surfaces, or...
Why Does my Heel Hurt?Mar 22, 2021Heel pain can affect and hinder everyday life, and it can come from many different sources. The leading cause of heel pain is plantar fasciitis. This occurs when the plantar fascia, the band of tissue connecting the heels to the toes, becomes inflamed.
Causes and a Possible Solution for Ingrown ToenailsMar 15, 2021An ingrown toenail can be quite painful and uncomfortable. It is a foot condition defined as a toenail that grows into the sides of the nail bed. This can occur for a variety of reasons including genetics, trimming the toenails incorrectly,...
Gout Pain Can Be ManagedMar 14, 2021Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.
What Foot Conditions Can Affect Children?Mar 08, 2021When it comes to foot problems, children are susceptible to many of the same conditions as adults. Problems on the skin of the feet, such as plantar warts, athlete’s foot, ingrown toenails, calluses, and blisters are all common in children.
Tips for Finding the Right ShoesMar 02, 2021As our bodies age, our feet can take quite a bit of wear and tear. Because of this, making sure your shoes fit properly is very important, and there are a variety of tips that can help make sure your shoes fit correctly.
Infections May Accompany Severe Toenail FungusFeb 22, 2021Patients with toenail fungus find that it is unpleasant and difficult to treat. There may be contributing factors that can lead to the onset of toenail fungus which include diabetes, genetics, and immune disorders.
Painful Heel SpursFeb 15, 2021A common symptom of a heel spur is pain in the heel and surrounding areas. It is defined as a bony growth that forms on the bottom of the heel, and can cause severe pain and discomfort. It often occurs in patients who have plantar fasciitis, ...
Are Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?Feb 12, 2021Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.
Diabetic Feet Need Frequent ExamsFeb 08, 2021Diabetic feet are prone to developing infections and foot ulcers. This is generally a result of the inability to feel cuts or bruises that may develop on the feet. This is caused by elevated insulin levels in the blood that can come from obesity and...
What Can Cause Gout?Feb 02, 2021Patients with gout are often aware of the intense pain and discomfort this condition may cause. It is an arthritic ailment that generally affects the joints in the big toe, and can cause difficulty in walking.
What Can I Do if I Have Morton's Neuroma?Feb 02, 2021Morton’s neuroma is a condition in which a nerve between your toes becomes irritated or thickened. This can cause symptoms such as stabbing, shooting, or burning pains in the front of the foot.
Morton's NeuromaFeb 02, 2021Morton's Neuroma, also called Intermetatarsal Neuroma or Plantar Neuroma, is a condition that affects the nerves of the feet, usually the area between the third and fourth toe. Neuroma refers to a benign growth that can occur in different parts...
Everything You Need to Know About GoutFeb 02, 2021Gout, typically found in diabetic patients, is an unusually painful form of arthritis caused by elevated levels of uric acid in the bloodstream. The condition typically strikes the big joint on the big toe.
What Causes Pain on the Inside of the Heel?Feb 02, 2021Pain on the inside of the heel can have several different causes. Nerve pain on the inside of the heel, which is characterized by a tingling, numb, or burning sensation, can be the result of a nerve in the foot being squeezed or constricted.