Plantar fasciitis is perhaps the most common cause of heel pain. It results from inflammation of the thick band of tissue called the plantar fascia, that runs along the bottom of the foot. The primary symptom is sharp, stabbing pain in the heel, particularly when taking your first steps in the morning or after sitting for a while. The pain can lessen with movement but may return after long periods of standing or walking. This condition is often caused by repetitive strain on the plantar fascia, which can be triggered by activities like running, wearing improper footwear, or having flat feet or high arches. A podiatrist can diagnose plantar fasciitis through a physical exam and may use imaging tests for a clearer view. Treatment typically involves stretching exercises, custom orthotics, and anti-inflammatory medication. In more severe cases, corticosteroid injections may be recommended. If you are dealing with this condition, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for proper care and relief.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Michael A. Wood from Foot Health Institute. 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
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 one of our offices located in Lansing, and Chicago, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Progressive collapsing foot deformity, also known as adult-acquired flatfoot, occurs when the arch gradually collapses, leading to changes in your foot’s shape and function. Adult-acquired flatfoot often results from dysfunction in the posterior tibial tendon, which plays a key role in supporting the arch and turning the foot inward. As this tendon weakens, the foot may flatten, and the alignment of the ankle can shift, sometimes causing pain or difficulty walking. Aging, previous injuries, obesity, diabetes, or arthritis may contribute to the development of adult-acquired flatfoot. It may result in pain along the inside of the ankle, swelling, or an outward shift of the foot’s position. A podiatrist can assess the severity of the condition using certain imaging tests to determine the best course of treatment. Supportive devices, orthotic inserts, and in more advanced cases, surgery, may help restore function and relieve pain. If you notice that your feet have become flatter, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.
Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Michael A. Wood from Foot Health Institute. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Are Flat Feet?
Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.
Conditions & Problems:
Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.
Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.
Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.
Symptoms
Pain around the heel or arch area
Trouble standing on the tip toe
Swelling around the inside of the ankle
Flat look to one or both feet
Having your shoes feel uneven when worn
Treatment
If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Lansing, and Chicago, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Plantar 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!
Pain in the ball of the foot, known as metatarsalgia, occurs when excessive pressure or structural changes affect the metatarsal bones. These five long bones located just behind the toes help support the body's weight and movement. Factors such as high-impact activities, wearing tight or high-heeled shoes, stress fractures, arthritis, and foot deformities can cause pain in the ball of the foot. Symptoms include a sharp or aching pain that worsens with standing or walking, a sensation of walking on pebbles, numbness, or tingling in the toes. A podiatrist can evaluate your foot through a physical exam and imaging tests to determine the source of the pain. Treatment may involve taking pressure off of the metatarsal area, prescribing custom orthotics, suggesting footwear modifications, or immobilizing the foot in the case of fractures. If conservative treatments do not relieve symptoms, surgery may be needed to address bone misalignment, nerve irritation, or joint damage. If you have pain in the ball of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Michael A. Wood from Foot Health Institute. 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)
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 one of our offices located in Lansing, and Chicago, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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