Items filtered by date: November 2024
All About Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is caused by an inflammation of the thick tissue that connects the heel to the toes. Known as the plantar fascia, this tissue supports the arch of the foot. When it is overused or overstretched, it can lead to pain and difficulty walking. Risk factors of plantar fasciitis include having flat feet or high arches, running long distances, or wearing shoes with inadequate support. Common symptoms of plantar fasciitis include sharp heel pain, particularly in the morning, and discomfort after long periods of standing or following physical activity. A podiatrist can diagnose this condition by examining the foot and using imaging tests to rule out other issues. Treatment options often involve stretches, wearing special footwear, and orthotics to relieve pressure on the plantar fascia. If conservative methods are ineffective, a podiatrist may explore advanced treatments like injections or custom-made orthotics to reduce discomfort and improve mobility. If you have foot pain that may be caused by plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists from Columbus Podiatry & Surgery. Our podiatrists can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
- Excessive running
- Having high arches in your feet
- Other foot issues such as flat feet
- Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
- Being on your feet very often
There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.
Prevention
- Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
- Maintain a healthy weight
- If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain
There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Columbus, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Managing Midfoot Sprains
A foot sprain occurs when the ligaments in the foot are overstretched or torn due to an awkward landing or sudden twisting. This injury often results from activities such as football, snowboarding, and dance, where the body pivots but the foot remains in one place. Foot sprains are classified into three levels. Grade I involves minor tears to the ligament, in grade II the tears are more severe, and with grade III sprains, the ligament is completely torn or detached. Symptoms of midfoot sprains include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity of your foot sprain and provide treatment, which may involve wearing a splint or boot. Rehabilitation exercises also may be prescribed to strengthen the foot and prevent future injury. In severe cases, surgical repair of the ligaments may be needed. If you have sprained your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and treatment.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Columbus Podiatry & Surgery. Our podiatrists 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 office located in Columbus, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.