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Keep Your Feet Healthy and Pain Free
Taking care of your feet is an important routine for all ages and should be done on a regular basis. Foot pain can develop due to a variety of reasons, including ill-fitting footwear, obesity, pregnancy, or because of an existing foot condition such as flat feet. To help combat foot discomfort, consider routinely pampering your feet. This can help soothe any pain you may be experiencing. A foot bath with warm water and epsom salts is a relaxing way to help soothe aching or sore muscles. If you find yourself dealing with swollen feet, make sure the water is cool before soaking. Practicing feet stretches, as well as exercising your ankles, toes, and calves, can help overstressed muscles in your feet. Trimming your toenails on a regular basis and applying moisturizer can help avoid the development of an ingrown toenail, as well as cracked heels. For more advice on how to best take care of your feet, it’s suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.
Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Everyday Foot Care
Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.
It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL.. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Every Day Foot CareTypes of Corns
People who have experienced a corn on their feet are often aware of the pain and discomfort they can cause. Corns can develop between the toes, which are referred to as soft corns. The pain may be severe while walking in shoes, and mild relief may be found when it is covered by a corn pad. Corns are often caused by wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, and the corn may diminish when proper footwear is worn. Corns that develop on top of the toes are known as hard corns, and can form as a result of friction that comes from the top of the foot rubbing against the top of the shoe. Corns can cause pain that can affect the structure of the feet, which is why it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can properly remove any corns you may have, and guide you toward proper prevention.
If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M of Florida. Dr. Klein will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.
Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:
- Well-fitting socks
- Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
- Shoes that offer support
Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Dr. Klein to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL.. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Corns: What Are They, and How Do You Get Rid of ThemFoot Pain Can Be a Common Ailment
Research has indicated it is likely that many people will experience some type of foot pain during their lives. The foot is a complex structure, and each foot consists of twenty-six bones, in addition to numerous tendons and ligaments. The function of the ankle is to connect the lower leg to the foot. Patients who frequently participate in running and jumping activities may increase their chances of incurring a foot injury that can create a misaligned foot structure and cause foot pain. An Achilles tendon injury may cause considerable pain in the calf and heel area. This can happen if it becomes torn or overstretched, and may be common among athletes. Morton’s neuroma is considered to be a form of nerve pain, and typically affects the ball of your foot. If you are experiencing any type of foot pain, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein 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 Saint Petersburg, FL.. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Foot PainChildren Walking Barefoot While Indoors
Research has shown that children’s feet may be prone to developing foot deformities from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. This can happen as early as six months of age, which can be a result of each foot consisting of mostly cartilage. The bones generally develop at approximately two years of age. Most importantly, it is beneficial to wear shoes that fit properly. This can aid in the proper development of the variety of bones, muscles, and ligaments that exist in each foot. Many specialists agree throughout the world that it helps the overall health of the feet to walk barefoot while indoors. The grasping motion of the toes and the front of the foot can help to strengthen the feet. As your child walks outdoors, shoes that have cushioned and flexible soles may help to provide the necessary support that is needed while walking on uneven surfaces. If you would like more information about what shoes to buy for your children, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.
Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M of Florida. Dr. Klein can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...
Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.
Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.
Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.
As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’.
As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.
Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.
Be watchful for any pain or injury.
Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.
Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL.. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about How to Care for Your Child's FeetPossible Ways of Breaking Your Toe
A broken toe generally occurs from a forceful impact. This can happen if something heavy drops on your toe, or if it is stubbed against a piece of furniture. Patients who have experienced this type of injury have noticed symptoms that can include swelling, severe bruising on or around the affected toe, and it is often difficult to move the affected toe. After a proper diagnosis is performed, which typically means having an X-ray taken, treatment can begin. It is beneficial to elevate the foot, as this may help to diminish some of the swelling. Additionally, support may be found when the toe is taped to the toe next to it. This treatment method is referred to as buddy taping. If you feel you have broken your toe, it is strongly suggested that you speak with a podiatrist as quickly as possible so the correct treatment can begin.
Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is a Broken Toe?
A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
- Swelling
- Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
- Stiffness
- Nail Injury
Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL.. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about What to Know About a Broken ToeWhat Can Cause Morton’s Neuroma?
The medical condition that is known as Morton’s neuroma typically affects the area between the third and fourth toe. It can occur as a result of a compressed nerve, and may cause severe pain and discomfort. Some of the symptoms that are generally associated with this condition can include a numbing or tingling sensation, and it may hurt to have full range of motion while walking. This ailment can be caused by wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, participating in sporting activities that involve the ball of the foot, or it may develop from previous scar tissue. Moderate relief may be found when the affected foot is elevated. Additionally, it may be beneficial to wear custom-made orthotics, which can help to relieve a portion of the pressure. If you are afflicted with Morton’s neuroma, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist.
Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M of Florida. Dr. Klein 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 Saint Petersburg, FL.. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Morton's NeuromaPain Is Associated With Foot and Ankle Trauma
The ankle and foot are joined together to provide maximum stability and flexibility. Many patients who participate in running and jumping activities may have an increased risk of having a foot or ankle injury occur. When an ankle sprain happens as a result of an injury, or from suddenly stepping off of a curb, the ligaments and tendons are stretched beyond the normal range of motion. This can cause severe pain and discomfort. Common symptoms of an ankle sprain can consist of swelling, bruising, and it often becomes difficult to walk. Stress fractures are considered to be a hairline fracture, and gradually occur over time. It may happen more frequently in patients who have medical conditions such as osteoporosis or structural abnormalities which can include bunions. If you have endured any type of injury to the foot or ankle, it is advised that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can properly treat any foot condition.
Foot and ankle trauma is common among athletes and the elderly. If you have concerns that you may have experienced trauma to the foot and ankle, consult with Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Foot and ankle trauma cover a range of injuries all over the foot; common injuries include:
- Broken bones
- Muscle strains
- Injuries to the tendons and ligaments
- Stress fractures
Symptoms
Symptoms of foot and ankle injuries vary depending on the injury, but more common ones include:
- Bruising
- Inflammation/ Swelling
- Pain
Diagnosis
To properly diagnose the exact type of injury, podiatrists will conduct a number of different tests. Some of these include sensation and visual tests, X-rays, and MRIs. Medical and family histories will also be taken into account.
Treatment
Once the injury has been diagnosed, the podiatrist can than offer the best treatment options for you. In less severe cases, rest and keeping pressure off the foot may be all that’s necessary. Orthotics, such as a specially made shoes, or immobilization devices, like splints or casts, may be deemed necessary. Finally, if the injury is severe enough, surgery may be necessary.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL.. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Foot and Ankle TraumaMethods That Can Determine Shoe Size
Research has indicated that it is incredibly important to wear shoes that fit your feet correctly. This may be helpful in preventing unwanted foot conditions from developing that can include hammertoes, bunions, and blisters. There are several methods that can be implemented to obtain an accurate measurement. Your foot can be traced on a large piece of paper while wearing socks that are normally worn, along with a pair of shoes you typically wear. Brannock devices are typically found in shoe stores, and can be effective in determining the correct shoe size. When running shoes are purchased, it is important to ensure that there is adequate room for the toes to move freely in. Your feet may change size if weight is gained, or if a foot injury has occurred, which is why it’s beneficial to have a current measurement taken. If you would like to have a podiatrist properly measure your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment.
It is important to find shoes that fit you properly in order to avoid a variety of different foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Proper Shoe Fitting
Shoes have many different functions. They cushion our body weight, protect our feet, and allow us to safely play sports. You should always make sure that the shoes you wear fit you properly in order to avoid injuries and deformities such as: bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and more. It is important to note that although a certain pair of shoes might be a great fit for someone else, that doesn’t mean they will be a great fit for you. This is why you should always try on shoes before buying them to make sure they are worth the investment. Typically, shoes need to be replaced ever six months to one year of regular use.
Tips for Proper Shoe Fitting
- Select a shoe that is shaped like your foot
- Don’t buy shoes that fit too tight, expecting them to stretch to fit
- Make sure there is enough space (3/8” to ½”) for your longest toe at the end of each shoe when you are standing up
- Walk in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right
- Don’t select shoes by the size marked inside the shoe, but by how the shoe fits your foot
The shoes you buy should always feel as good as they look. Shoes that fit properly will last longer, feel better, and improve your way of life each day.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL.. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about How to Get a Proper Shoe FitPossible Uses of PRP Injections
Platelet-rich plasma therapy, which is also known as PRP injections, is generally used to accelerate the healing process for several conditions. Additionally, it may help to reduce inflammation in tendons, ligaments, and muscles that may be a result of a severe injury. After a small sample of blood is taken from the patient, it is spun in a centrifuge. This machine is effective in separating the platelets from other portions of the blood. At this point, it is injected into the affected area, and the healing process begins. If you have a foot condition that you believe may benefit from the use of PRP injections, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine the best course of treatment for you.
If you are suffering from a foot condition, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M of Florida. Dr. Klein will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
What Is PRP?
Platelet Rich Plasma, or PRP, is blood taken from a patient and spun in a centrifuge, concentrating the amount of platelets. The plasma is then re-injected into the site of injury or damage, assisting the body in repairing damage to muscles, tendons, ligaments, and tissue. PRP helps the body speed up its healing process.
Uses of PRP
Injuries affecting the foot sometimes don’t heal properly because of poor blood circulation. The healing time slows down, and recovery time is affected by poor blood supply. PRP injections will speed up recovery and resolve this issue.
Treatment
PRP is the first regenerative treatment for damaged muscles, tendons, and ligaments. No surgery needed. It is only applied with an insertion of a needle.
Ultrasound – An ultrasound is needed for proper placement of the platelets.
Injection – When the first injection is received, the patient will return to the doctor in about 2 to 3 weeks and monitor the recovery process.
Recovery time – Some people respond to treatments differently. Therefore, depending on your condition, the doctor will make any remaining decisions on how many more injections are needed, or if any additional ones are even required.
Benefits
One may be able to avoid major surgery, and recovery time will be cut down. PRP injections also avoid creating scar tissue and damage to the area. Risks are also very low using PRP as a treatment. There is no risk of rejection, contracting a disease from using another person’s blood, or infection.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL.. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about PRP Injections in the FeetWhat Causes Heel Pain?
Heel pain is a condition that many patients experience, and it may be caused due to a variety of reasons. The medical ailment that is known as plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, and can be extremely uncomfortable. Additionally, a tear or injury to the Achilles tendon may cause sharp pain that is felt in the calf and the heel. If an injury has occurred, moderate relief may be found when the foot is elevated, and the affected area is given rest as often as possible. For severe heel pain, it is strongly advised that you consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible to determine the cause, and allow for proper treatment to begin.
Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M of Florida. Dr. Klein 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 Saint Petersburg, FL.. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Heel PainMore...
Common Factors That Influence Developing Toenail Fungus
When fungi gets underneath the toenail, it’s very likely for toenail fungus to form. In order to tell if you have toenail fungus, it’s important you look out for certain signs. Common symptoms of this condition may include discoloration, thickening, or lifting of the nail. In some cases, it’s also been known for fungus to cause the affected toenail to crumble or split. As far as developing toenail fungus, certain factors may increase your likelihood. These factors may include living in a hot or humid climate, having athlete’s foot, being diabetic, spending a lot of time in the water, wearing tightly fitted shoes that cause the feet to sweat excessively, and having a weak immune system. If you feel you might have developed toenail fungus, it’s important you seek help as soon as possible. We recommend you consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and advised treatment plan.
If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M of Florida. Dr. Klein can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Symptoms
- Warped or oddly shaped nails
- Yellowish nails
- Loose/separated nail
- Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
- Brittle, broken, thickened nail
Treatment
If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.
Prevention
In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.
In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL.. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about How to Treat Your Toenail Fungus
Pregnancy and Swollen Feet
A common ailment many pregnant women notice is swollen feet. This is often the result of hormonal changes, and an increased volume of bodily fluids. It generally begins in the second trimester, and continues until the baby is born. Additional reasons why the feet may swell during pregnancy can include spending time in warm weather, as well as standing for extended periods of time. There are methods that can be implemented which may help to reduce swelling. These can consist of elevating your feet, drinking plenty of water on a daily basis, eating healthy foods, and limiting excess salt intake. If you would like additional information about how pregnancy can affect the feet, it is suggested that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist.
Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?
One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward. This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.
Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages.
How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?
- Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
- Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
- Wear shoes with good arch support
- Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
- Elevate feet if you experience swelling
- Massage your feet
- Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL.. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Foot Care for Pregnant WomenPossible Causes for Blisters on the Feet
A common cause for blisters to develop on the feet is excessive friction. This may come from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, which may cause pain and discomfort. Consistent rubbing against the skin can cause the top layer of the skin to become damaged, creating a small pocket of fluid to form over it. This is the body’s natural method of healing the affected area. Additional reasons why blisters may form can occur as a result of standing for the majority of the day, or medical conditions that may include eczema and herpes. Some patients may have an allergic reaction to an insect bite which may also result in the development of a blister. It can help to cover the blister with an elastic bandage as daily activities are completed. The blister will gradually drain as new skin forms, and then the bandage can be removed. If you have a blister that is uncomfortable, please consult with a podiatrist who can help you find the remedy that is right for you.
Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M of Florida. Dr. Klein can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Foot Blisters
Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.
What Are Foot Blisters?
A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.
Symptoms
(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)
- Bubble of skin filled with fluid
- Redness
- Moderate to severe pain
- Itching
Prevention & Treatment
In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL.. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about BlistersThe Definition of Plantar Fasciitis
Patients who have plantar fasciitis are often familiar with the severe pain and discomfort this condition may cause. It is defined as an inflammation of the plantar fascia, which is the band of tissue that is found on the sole of the foot. Its function is to connect the heel to the toes, and plays a significant role in supporting the arch of the foot. Plantar fasciitis may occur as a result of gradual wear and tear which may happen from standing on hard surfaces for the majority of the day. Additionally, obesity, flat feet, and ill-fitting shoes may be contributing factors in developing this condition. The symptoms that are generally associated with this ailment can include severe pain in the heel area, and it may be difficult to walk. Mild relief may be found when gentle stretching techniques are frequently performed, which may help to strengthen the foot. If you are suffering from this condition, it is strongly recommended that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you to treat this condition.
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 Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein 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 Saint Petersburg, FL.. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Plantar Fasciitis