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Uncomfortable Heel Pain and Plantar Fasciitis

Monday, 29 October 2018

The portion of the ligament that connects the toes to the heel bone is referred to as the plantar fascia. If this tissue should become inflamed, a condition that is known as plantar fasciitis may develop. This uncomfortable and painful ailment may occur as a result of having high arches in the feet, being overweight, or from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. Typical symptoms of this condition may include pain and stiffness in the heel area as the first steps are taken after sleeping, and the pain may increase in the foot as the day progresses. After a proper diagnosis is completed, which generally consists of having an X-ray taken, it’s important to consult with a podiatrist to begin correct treatment. These may include learning how to perform correct stretches that will benefit the feet and ankles, in addition to wearing proper footwear.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Thomas Tran from Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C.. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

Excessive running
Non-supportive shoes
Overpronation
Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Frisco, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

Wednesday, 24 October 2018

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

It’s Important to Stretch Your Feet While Working

Monday, 22 October 2018

There are many professions where it is necessary to stand for the majority of the day. People who are employed as nurses may be standing and walking, while performing the necessary functions to take proper care of their patients. Research has shown the importance of stretching the feet, which may promote improved circulation. When the shoes are changed frequently or the correct insoles are worn, the feet will feel more comfortable. Practicing yoga has been known to stretch the muscles, toes, and tendons in the feet. This may also develop additional flexibility. If you are in a profession where you are walking most of the day, please speak to a podiatrist about proper stretching techniques, which may prevent painful foot conditions from developing.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Dr. Thomas Tran from Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C.. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen.

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Frisco, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Why Live with Pain and Numbness in Your Feet?

Wednesday, 17 October 2018

Suffering 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.

Causes of Poor Circulation

Monday, 15 October 2018

Research has shown there are many people that may experience poor circulation in their feet. Some of the symptoms that may be associated with this ailment may be muscle cramps, feeling a tingling or numbing sensation, or possible sharp pains that may be felt in the feet. A condition that is referred to as peripheral artery disease, also known as PAD, may be a common cause of poor circulation. This typically causes the arteries to become narrow, which may result in nerve damage. Obesity may be an additional reason why poor circulation may occur. The feet must endure additional weight, which may lead to difficulty in exercising, and this may contribute to poor circulation. It’s important to speak with a podiatrist if you feel you are afflicted with poor circulation in the feet.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Dr. Thomas Tran of Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C.. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

Numbness
Tingling
Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
Pain
Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Frisco, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Blog

Uncomfortable Heel Pain and Plantar Fasciitis

Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

It’s Important to Stretch Your Feet While Working

Why Live with Pain and Numbness in Your Feet?

Causes of Poor Circulation

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