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How Can Poor Circulation Be Improved?
The symptoms that often accompany poor circulation can include a tingling and numbing sensation in the hands and feet, swollen toes, and toenails may be brittle and discolored. Some patients experience dry skin, dizzy spells and headaches, and these may be indicative of this condition. Raynaud’s disease is a type of poor circulation, and this may cause the fingers and toes to turn white, and may feel cold for the majority of the day. It is helpful to know that symptoms of circulation conditions may be diminished by performing a gentle exercise routine as frequently as possible. This may help to improve blood flow in the body. Additionally, it may be beneficial to limit or stop smoking, which may stop the arteries from becoming narrow. If you would like to learn more about how poor circulation can affect the feet, please schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.
Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M of Florida. Dr. Klein will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Poor Circulation in the Feet
Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.
Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.
Causes
Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:
- Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness
- Numbness or cramping in the legs
- Skin discoloration
- Slower nail & hair growth
- Erectile dysfunction
Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.
As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication.
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 Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment of Poor Blood Circulation in the FeetHow Can Poor Circulation Be Improved?
The symptoms that often accompany poor circulation can include a tingling and numbing sensation in the hands and feet, swollen toes, and toenails may be brittle and discolored. Some patients experience dry skin, dizzy spells and headaches, and these may be indicative of this condition. Raynaud’s disease is a type of poor circulation, and this may cause the fingers and toes to turn white, and may feel cold for the majority of the day. It is helpful to know that symptoms of circulation conditions may be diminished by performing a gentle exercise routine as frequently as possible. This may help to improve blood flow in the body. Additionally, it may be beneficial to limit or stop smoking, which may stop the arteries from becoming narrow. If you would like to learn more about how poor circulation can affect the feet, please schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.
While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M of Florida. Dr. Klein will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Poor Circulation in the Feet
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.
Symptoms
Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:
- Numbness
- Tingling
- Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
- Pain
- Muscle Cramps
Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.
As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication.
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 Causes Symptoms and Treatment for Poor Circulation in the FeetWhere Does The Fungus That Causes Athlete’s Foot Live?
The most common type of skin infection caused by a fungus is referred to as athlete’s foot. This fungus lives and thrives in warm and moist environments that often consist of public pools, shower room floors, locker rooms and surrounding areas. Noticeable symptoms that often accompany this condition can include severe itchiness on the soles of the feet, between the toes, and the skin may crack and appear scaly. If you are affected by athlete’s foot, moderate relief can be found when an antifungal medication is used. This can be applied in the form of a spray, cream, or lotion. There are methods that can be taken which may help to prevent contracting this condition. These can include wearing appropriate shoes while in moist environments, in addition to keeping your feet clean and dry. If you are afflicted with a severe case of athlete’s foot, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.
Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story
Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.
Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot
- Hydrate your feet by using lotion
- Exfoliate
- Buff off nails
- Use of anti-fungal products
- Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop
Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are 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 and ankle needs.
Read more about Athlete’s FootPossible Causes of Ingrown Toenails
The medical term that is referred to as onychocryptosis, is more commonly known as an ingrown toenail. It typically develops as a result of the corner of the nail digging into the skin surrounding it, and this can produce severe pain and discomfort. Additional symptoms often consist of inflammation near the affected area, and there may be mild drainage if it becomes infected. Patients can experience ingrown toenails for a variety of reasons. These can include wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in, toenails that have been trimmed incorrectly, or if an injury has happened to the toe. Moderate relief may be found when the toe is soaked in warm water several times per day. This can help to keep the skin soft around the affected nail. If you have an ingrown toenail, it is beneficial that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can guide you toward the correct treatment.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, 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.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.
Causes
- Bacterial infections
- Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
- Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
- Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
- Genetic predisposition
Prevention
Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.
Treatment
Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right 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 and ankle needs.
Read more about Ingrown Toenail CareWhat Causes Heel Spurs?
The condition that is known as a heel spur can cause pain and discomfort. It happens as a result of a calcium deposit that forms between the arch and the heel of the foot. The symptoms that are often associated with this condition can include difficulty in walking barefoot, pain in the heel and surrounding areas, and swelling and inflammation. It can develop with muscle and ligament tension, which may cause the soft tissues to wear out. People who frequently participate in sporting activities that involve running and jumping may be prone to developing heel spurs. It is beneficial to wear shoes that have adequate cushioning in the heel area, in addition to resting and elevating the foot as often as possible. If you have developed a heel spur, it is advised that you speak to a podiatrist who can recommend treatment options that are correct for you.
Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein will do everything possible to treat your condition.
Heels Spurs
Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.
Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.
Pain
The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.
Treatments
There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.
If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL.. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
Read more about How to Treat Heel SpursChildren and Walking Barefoot While Indoors
When children’s feet are cared for as infants and toddlers, it may prevent uncomfortable foot conditions from developing as they get older. It is beneficial to wash your child’s feet everyday, and it is important to pay extra attention between the toes. This may help to prevent athlete’s foot from developing, which can be uncomfortable. Research has indicated that toddlers should walk barefoot while indoors. This is helpful in strengthening the overall foot as the toes grasp the floor. When it becomes time to purchase the first pair of shoes, it is important to properly measure your child’s foot. This is essential in determining the correct shoe size which can provide adequate room for the toes to move freely in. Additionally, cutting the toenails properly may help to prevent ingrown toenails. If you would like additional information about how to properly care for your children’s feet, please consult with a podiatrist.
The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, 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.
Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
- Make sure their shoes fit properly
- Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
- Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
- Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
- Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
- Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
- Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
- Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.
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 Do to Keep Your Child’s Feet HealthyTips for Buying Children's Shoes
With the start of the new school year in our midst, many families with children are facing a familiar scene – taking the kids shopping for new shoes. While it’s necessary to consider that children are still growing, finding shoes that fit a child’s feet well is equally important. Parents should plan shoe shopping trips for later in the day because the feet tend to swell, or become slightly larger, as the day goes on. When kids are trying on shoes, parents should ensure that there’s space between the end of the shoe and the longest toe. Checking a shoe’s width is also important and will help ensure that toes are not crammed along the side of the shoe. A shoe’s depth is another thing to consider; make sure the child’s feet are not bulging and fit comfortably within the shoe. After checking the width, length, and depth, parents should have their children walk around in the shoes and observe how they walk with the shoes on. If you have any questions about shoes for your children, consult with your 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 FeetWhat Causes Gout?
Elevated uric acid levels in the bloodstream may lead to a painful condition that is known as gout. It typically affects the joints in the big toe, and symptoms generally consist of swelling, redness, and severe pain and discomfort. It can occur as a result of crystals that form and lodge in the joints, which is caused by eating foods that have high purine levels. These foods can include red meat, shellfish, and excess amounts of alcohol. After a proper diagnosis is performed, which can consist of extracting fluid from the affected joint that contains the crystals, proper treatment can begin. This can include taking medication which can lower uric acid levels. There are methods that can be implemented which may prevent gout attacks from occurring. It is beneficial to incorporate healthy eating habits into your daily routine, and limiting the amount of alcohol that is consumed. If you have frequent gout attacks, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can treat this condition.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.
People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.
Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.
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 GoutSymptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury
The Achilles tendon is located at the back of the calf, and its function is to connect the heel to the calf muscles. It is important for this tendon to remain strong, as it is necessary in performing running and jumping activities. Achilles tendonitis occurs if it becomes irritated, inflamed, or swollen. This can happen for a variety of reasons, including increasing the intensity of a new sport, wearing inappropriate shoes while exercising, or from having tight calf muscles. Some of the symptoms that are associated with this condition can include pain and discomfort near the heel, and some patients may have difficulty in flexing and pointing the injured foot. Effective treatment options can include resting the foot, performing exercises to strengthen the calf muscles, in addition to possibly wearing orthotics. If you feel you have injured your Achilles tendon, it is strongly advised to consult with a podiatrist who can guide you toward proper treatment options.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, 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.
What Is the Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.
What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?
There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.
Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms
- Inflammation
- Dull to severe pain
- Increased blood flow to the tendon
- Thickening of the tendon
Rupture Symptoms
- Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
- Total immobility
Treatment and Prevention
Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:
- Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
- Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL.. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Achilles Tendon InjuriesThe Purpose of the Achilles Tendon
The Achilles tendon is located in the back of the calf, and its purpose is to connect the heel bone to the calf muscles. While anyone can injure their Achilles tendon, it is said people that frequently participate in sporting activities like basketball or tennis, may be at a higher risk due to constant stopping and sharp turns. When the tendon stretches too far, it can rupture or tear. This can cause considerable pain and discomfort, and daily activities may be difficult to complete. Some of the symptoms that are often associated with this injury can include difficulty in standing on toes, walking up steps, and some patients may notice the back of the ankle is bruised or swollen. It can help to ease the pain by elevating the affected ankle as often as possible, as this may help to reduce swelling. Treatment can include wearing a brace or splint, which may help to stabilize the foot. If you feel you have injured your Achilles tendon, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can guide you towards the best treatment options.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, 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.
What Is the Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.
What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?
There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.
Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms
- Inflammation
- Dull to severe pain
- Increased blood flow to the tendon
- Thickening of the tendon
Rupture Symptoms
- Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
- Total immobility
Treatment and Prevention
Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:
- Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
- Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL.. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about What are Achilles Tendon InjuriesMore...
What Are Heel Spurs?
A heel spur is a foot condition that is caused by a calcium deposit that extends between your heel bone and arch. They often start in the front of the heel and eventually begin to affect other parts of the foot. Heel spurs can be caused by repetitive stress from walking or running, bruising of the heel, poorly fitted and worn-out shoes, walking gait issues and arthritis. Symptoms can include pain, inflammation and swelling at the front of the heel. Symptoms only show up in about 50 percent of people with heel spurs. Because of this, the majority of heel spurs are discovered through X-rays and other tests done for foot ailments. In order to prevent heel spurs, it is important to be aware of your overall foot health and what your feet go through on a daily basis. You should get your foot checked out as soon as you feel pain, as well as ceasing any physical activity until the pain subsides. If you are experiencing foot or heel pain, it is advised that you see a podiatrist for their opinion.
Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein will do everything possible to treat your condition.
Heels Spurs
Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.
Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.
Pain
The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.
Treatments
There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.
If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL.. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
Read more about Heel SpursDiabetic Complications and Amputation Prevention
People who have diabetes are at an increased ri
sk of having foot problems, such as nerve damage and poor circulation. Other diabetes related foot and ankle problems include infections that won’t heal, charcot foot, nail disorders, hammertoes and bunions. In severe cases, these can lead to the need for amputation of the foot or ankle. There are some new surgical methods available to save feet and legs, including joint reconstruction and healing technologies. Some proactive measures you can take in reducing complications are inspecting your feet daily, looking for skin or nail problems, keeping the floors in your home free of sharp objects and lastly getting your circulation and sense of feeling tested. Even with preventative care and treatment of any foot and ankle ailments, there can still be instances when amputation might be the only viable option. If you are experiencing any problems as a result of diabetes, then it is advised that you visit a podiatrist as soon as you can.
Limb salvage can be an effective way in preventing the need for limb amputation. If you have diabetes, cancer, or any other condition that could lead to foot amputation if left unchecked, 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.
What Is Limb Salvage?
Limb salvage is the attempt of saving a limb, such as the foot from amputation. Podiatrists also try to make sure that there is enough function in the foot after the salvage that it is still usable. Diabetes is the number one cause of non-traumatic amputations in the United States. Those with diabetes experience poor blood circulation, which prevents proper healing of an ulcer. If the ulcer is left uncheck, it could become infected, which could result in the need for amputation.
However, there are other causes as well, such as cancer and traumatic injury. Links between higher mortality rates and amputation have been found. This translates into higher healthcare costs, and a reduced quality of life and mobility for amputees. Podiatrists have attempted to increase the prevalence of limb salvage in an attempt to solve these issues.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Limb salvage teams have grown in recent years that utilize a number of different treatments to save the infected limb. This includes podiatrists that specialize in wound care, rehabilitation, orthotics, and surgery. Through a combination of these methods, limb salvage has been found to be an effective treatment for infected limbs, and as an alternative to amputation. Podiatrists will first evaluate the potential for limb salvage and determine if the limb can be saved or must be amputated.
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 Limb SalvageTypes of Heel Pain
Many people experience heel pain, which can originate for several reasons. Achilles tendinitis occurs when the pain is felt behind the heel, and it may also be noticed on the outer or inner part of the heel. The most common type of heel pain is caused by a condition that is known as plantar fasciitis, and if it is not promptly treated, it can cause pain that can be disabling. Some patients experience heel bursitis, and this kind of pain is felt inside the heel. Sever's disease may be common among teenage athletes, and this affects the growth plates of the heel bone. If you have any type of heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat heel conditions.
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 PainStretches to Help with Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a painful condition in which the tissue connecting the heel to the toes becomes inflamed. There are several stretches and exercises to manage the discomfort of this ailment. To begin, place the balls of your feet on the edge of a step, with a towel under your toes. With your weight on one foot only, move your heel towards the ground, and then up to the ceiling. You should perform this routine on both feet. The next exercise requires a chair. While sitting, alternate between lifting your toes up, and then curling them in as tightly as possible. The subsequent stretch also takes place while sitting in a chair. Grab both of your big toes with your corresponding hands, and lift them up as high as possible. Once you are in this position, press your toes against your hands, in order to feel resistance. Keep in mind to perform this stretch to your level of comfort. The final exercise takes place with one leg in a kneeling position, and the other foot flat in front of you. Shift your knee past your toes, and then press the ball of your foot into the floor. Next, in this same position, raise the ball of your foot towards your own body. Be sure to repeat this on both sides. If these stretches are not helpful in relieving your plantar fasciitis pain, consult with a podiatrist.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. 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 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
How Can It Be Treated?
- Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
- 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 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 Plantar Fasciitis