Ingrown toenails can be painful and can make wearing shoes or walking uncomfortable. Seek professional help if you believe you've developed an ingrown toenail and be treated safely.
The strong tendon found on the bottom of the foot which connects the heel to the toes is called the plantar fascia. Inflammation or a tear to this tendon can be quite uncomfortable and result in plantar fasciitis. This condition can be caused by frequently running on uneven surfaces or wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. Many people who stand for the majority of the day may develop plantar fasciitis, in addition to pregnant women due to the extra weight their feet must bear. While pregnancy is a temporary condition, obesity may be a more permanent one, and this can put constant pressure on the plantar fascia. Studies suggest that people who have poor circulation may slowly develop plantar fasciitis because of the loss of blood flow to the feet. If you have heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can offer you permanent treatment solutions.
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 Fox Valley Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctors 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 Naperville, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Having flat feet, or pes planus, is a common condition among adults. Flat feet, sometimes called fallen arches, can cause problems with the ankles and knees. In addition, they can have a negative effect on body alignment, which can increase the likelihood of injury while engaging in sports or other activities. Many people do not experience pain from having flat feet, while others may feel pain in the arch or ankle. The pain may be worse at night or after engaging in prolonged activity. The main problem with flat feet is that the arch cannot support the soft tissues in the foot, causing swelling and fatigue. Obesity is one of the main contributors to developing flat feet. Diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and aging are other common factors. A number of treatments for flat feet are available for people who have problems caused by flat feet. Among them are custom orthotics, which can be made by a podiatrist to address the specific problems of your feet. If you have pain or discomfort from flat feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.
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 our office located in Naperville, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
There are various reasons why people may experience swollen feet. Having high blood pressure is a common reason that feet can swell, and limiting salt intake and drinking plenty of water may help to reduce this. Research has shown that many women who are premenopausal develop swollen feet, possibly as a result of their body preparing to start the next phase of their life. Existing medical conditions may lead to having swollen feet, including diabetes, poor circulation, or heart disease. Integrating a gentle exercise and stretching routine may help to control swollen feet, in addition to losing extra weight, if applicable. People who stand for long periods of time during their work day may have swollen feet, and it can be helpful to wear shoes that fit correctly. The arthritic condition that is known as gout may cause the feet to swell, and relief may be found when eating habits are changed. If you have swollen feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer you correct treatment solutions.
Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:
Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.
Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet.
Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Naperville, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
