Winter sports bring exhilarating experiences, but they also come with the risk of specific injuries, especially for cross-country skiers. Nordic skiing demands endurance, precision, and balance, placing unique strains on the feet and ankles. Dr. John Paul Elton, a renowned foot and ankle specialist at Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery (VSON), shares his insights into the most common injuries faced by cross-country skiers and tips on preventing and managing them for a safe and enjoyable season.
Read MoreFlat feet, also known as pes planus, happens when the arches of the feet collapse, causing the entire sole of the foot to make contact with the ground. While some people naturally have flat feet, others develop the condition over time due to injury, aging, or underlying health issues.
Read MoreWhen facing severe ankle arthritis or significant damage, two primary surgical options may be considered: ankle replacement or ankle fusion. Both procedures aim to alleviate pain and restore function, but the right choice depends on various factors, including your age, activity level, and the presence of other foot conditions.
Read MoreMorton's neuroma occurs when the tissue around one of the nerves leading to your toes thickens, causing pain, tingling, or numbness in the ball of your foot. "Morton's neuroma often develops due to irritation, injury, or pressure on the nerve," says Dr. Elton. "Activities that add stress to the foot can make Morton’s neuroma worse."
Read MoreSever's Disease is an inflammation of the growth plate in the heel of growing children. This condition is most prevalent during growth spurts when bones, muscles, tendons, and other structures are changing rapidly. It typically affects children aged 8 to 14 years and is a leading cause of severs heel pain in this age group.
Read MorePickleball is a fantastic sport for all ages, but it's essential to be mindful of your foot and ankle health. By taking the right precautions and seeking timely treatment, you can enjoy the game while minimizing the risk of injury.
Read MoreExtensor tendonitis is a condition that occurs when the tendons that run along the top of your foot and help you lift your toes become inflamed. This injury most often occurs from excessive use without adequate rest or recovery time, leading to pain and swelling.
Read MoreHave you ever woken up with a throbbing pain in the ball of your foot (right under your big toe) that worsens when you walk? Or maybe you've been experiencing stiffness or discomfort in your big toe joint, but you can't seem to figure out what's causing it. If any of this sounds familiar, you might be suffering from a condition called sesamoiditis.
Read MoreThere are many potential causes of foot arch pain. In some cases, the pain may result from an underlying disease. Other times, an injury might be to blame. Keep reading to learn more about the most common causes of arch pain.
Are you experiencing foot pain? If so, you're not alone. Nearly eight out of 10 people will experience foot pain at some point in their life. In this article, we'll explore seven common foot injuries and how Dr. Elton and his team can help alleviate them.
Read MoreThe plantar plate is a ligament that runs along the ball of your foot, connecting the toe joints. When strained, it can tear, causing pain and instability.
Read MoreFlatfoot occurs when the inside arches of the foot are flattened, often developed in childhood when the arches don’t form correctly (or at all).
Foot reconstruction is a procedure to treat foot disorders or injuries that are impacting your foot’s health and function.
If diagnosed and treated early enough, very few cases of plantar fasciitis require surgery.
Read MoreHere are some of the more common foot conditions Dr. Elton and his team treat in their practice at Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery.
If you've tried unsuccessfully to ease the pain from bunions, it might be time for bunion surgery.
Read MoreBunions can be painful. When they progress to the point where it’s difficult to do your favorite activities, it’s time to seek treatment.
Morton’s Neuroma causes pain in the ball of your foot, usually in the area between your third and fourth toes.
Read MorePlantar fasciitis is thought to be caused by repeated microtears or trauma to the heel's plantar fascia. It’s a condition typically seen in our Eagle County runners and jumpers.
Read MoreIf you have a bump on your foot, it's always good to get it looked at by a trained specialist to find out what the next step should be.
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