Items filtered by date: January 2021

If 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!

Heel pain can be debilitating, and it has a variety of causes.  Because the heel is the first part of the foot to hit the ground when walking, it can bear the weight of the entire body causing pain during prolonged periods of walking and standing. Plantar fasciitis is the most common form of heel pain. This occurs when the plantar fascia, the ligament running along the bottom of the foot connecting the heel to the toes, becomes inflamed and aggravated. Plantar fasciitis pain is at its worst in the morning or after rest, and it usually subsidies throughout the day. Heel spurs, which are abnormal growths of bone on the heel, can also lead to heel pain. These form when calcium deposits build up on the back of the heel. If you are struggling with heel pain, it is important to consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment method.  

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Podiatry Health Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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

Diabetic patients are at a higher risk for foot related issues. Those with diabetes are more prone to developing poor blood circulation. One common condition, known as neuropathy, which leads to the loss of sensation in the feet, changes in the shape of the feet, and cuts or sores that do not heal properly, is also common among diabetic patients. Because of these potential issues, daily foot care is very important. One key step to foot care is doing daily checks for problems such as cuts, sores and infections. Making sure to regularly wash your feet with warm water and to dry them thoroughly is also suggested. It is also beneficial to always wear shoes and socks in order to protect the feet from extreme temperatures. Keeping up circulation by periodically wiggling the toes and exercising is suggested as well. Lastly, it is important to go to your podiatrist for regular checkups, and to let them know if you are experiencing any foot problems.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Podiatry Health Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Stretching the feet can be beneficial in maintaining good foot health. Frequent stretches can make the feet stronger, which helps to maintain balance. Additionally, falling episodes may be limited when the feet are properly stretched. An effective foot stretch can be performed by rolling your foot on a tennis ball for several seconds, followed by repeating on the other foot. The toes can become stronger when toe curls and toe stretches are practiced. This can aid in maintaining good posture while walking. A simple stretch for toe curls can be completed by sitting in a chair and placing a towel under the feet, then scrunch the towel with your toes. A stretch for the Achilles tendon may consist of standing on a step, and gently lowering one heel and a time. If you would like more information about the effectiveness of foot stretches and how to perform them, please consult with a podiatrist.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with one of our podiatrists from Podiatry Health Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

• Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
• Similar to the previous one, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
• Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
• Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising and ice and rest the foot. It is advised to then see a podiatrist for help.

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

Many people have general aches and pains in their feet. When pain develops in the ball of the foot, it may be indicative of a condition that is referred to as Morton’s neuroma. This is an ailment that affects the nerves in the feet that helps to avoid falling by maintaining balance. It develops as a result of inflamed nerves which can happen for a variety of reasons. These can include wearing shoes that do not fit correctly or from medical ailments consisting of bunions, hammertoe, and flat feet. Mild relief may be found when the affected foot is massaged, and it may be beneficial to wear custom made orthotics. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is strongly suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat Morton’s neuroma.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Podiatry Health Center. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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