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When Is Shockwave Therapy Used to Treat Plantar Fasciitis?
The plantar fascia is the thick layer of tissue connecting your heel bone to the toes. This area can become inflamed or tear, causing plantar fasciitis. This painful disorder is sometimes experienced as hot, intense pain in your heel, and it may also cause swelling. Pain can be acute in the morning and sometimes may lessen during an activity once you are warmed up. If you are experiencing inflammation only, your podiatrist may try to treat the area with a variety of therapies including orthotics, taping and strapping, steroid injections and other techniques. If your plantar fascia has torn, this is more serious, and your podiatrist may suggest shockwave therapy—which can be successful in repairing damaged connective tissue and relieving pain without resorting to surgery.
Shockwave therapy is a treatment commonly used to treat various injuries and conditions, particularly plantar fasciitis in the feet. To learn more, consult with Richard P. Jacoby, DPM from Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy is a new treatment option designed to treat bone conditions such as tennis elbow, shoulder pain, and others. Shockwave therapy uses high intensity sound waves that are directed to the affected tissues of the body with pinpoint accuracy. The effects are very beneficial, leading to a production of collagen fibers, eliminating inflammation.
Who Benefits from Shockwave?
Shockwave is recommended for patients suffering from heel pain and associated problems. Heel pain is a common condition which can be caused by obesity, overexertion, and spending a substantial amount of time on hard floors with your feet exposed and unsupported.
Fast and Easy
The therapy is actually a simple process that can leave patients feeling better the very next day. Shockwave therapy is not as dramatic as it sounds. It enables more blood flow to effected areas, addressing the source of the problem and allowing treatment to last for a long time.
Treatment & Recovery Time
Shockwave treatment will enable your feet to recover quickly. This is especially important since surgery is not required. It is cost effective and does not require the use of anesthesia. This treatment is a better option to surgery, since it is proven safe.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
How Do Heel Spurs Form?
Heel spurs are bony protrusions that form on the heel bone due to calcium deposits. These deposits tend to form over time and may be a result of a ligament that is connected to the heel bone being frequently overstretched and ultimately torn. The most common issue that leads to heel spurs is plantar fasciitis which occurs when the band of tissues running along the bottom of the foot get injured and inflamed. In fact, plantar fasciitis is the cause for around half of all heel spurs. Heel spurs are often indicated by pain, tenderness and swelling that can make walking difficult. If you are struggling with heel pain, it may be serious, and consulting with a podiatrist is recommended.
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 Richard P. Jacoby, DPM from Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor 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 one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
Two Categories of Flat Feet
Patients who are missing an arch in their foot have the condition that is known as flat feet. Flat feet fall into two categories. Flexible flat feet have an arch that disappears when the foot bears weight and reappears while sitting or standing on tiptoes. Rigid flat feet do not have an arch regardless of whether you stand or sit. Children that have flat feet may benefit from wearing soft insoles, and this may provide additional comfort. If your child has flat feet that are causing them discomfort, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer treatment options.
Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Richard P. Jacoby, DPM from Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Are Flat Feet?
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 one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Diabetic Feet Need Frequent Exams
Diabetic feet are prone to developing infections and foot ulcers. This is generally a result of the inability to feel cuts or bruises that may develop on the feet. This is caused by elevated insulin levels in the blood that can come from obesity and eating unhealthy foods. It is important to maintain proper foot care by trimming the toenails correctly, and keeping the feet clean and moisturized. Checking the feet daily may help to notice any discoloration that can accompany diabetes, in addition to abnormal swelling. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you speak with a podiatrist on a frequent basis, and have routine foot examinations performed.
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 Richard P. Jacoby, DPM from Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor 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 one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Do You Suffer From Painful Feet?
Painful deformities, such as hammertoes, can be treated. Stop living with foot pain, and have beautiful feet again!
Are Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?
Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.
Gout Pain Can Be Managed
Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.
Arthritis Can Cause Pain in the Feet and Ankles
If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.
Plantar Warts Can Be Treated!
Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!
It's Time for Beautiful Feet
You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.
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Heel Pain Can Be Treated!
Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek the professional help of your podiatrist and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.
Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?
Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!
How Custom Orthotics Can Help Treat Flatfoot
As the main stabilizing structure supporting the arch, the posterior tibial tendon is an important and hard-working tendon. Though with repetition or overuse, this tendon can become injured. This injury can contribute to pain and stress on the arch which can change the gait and even cause the arch to collapse over time. Prescription orthotics that are custom fit to the individual’s feet may be one form of treatment a podiatrist might use to help support and stabilize the arch and correct gait abnormalities. If you have pain on the inside of your foot or ankle, an appointment with a podiatrist is suggested for an accurate diagnosis and evaluation of your condition.
Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Richard P. Jacoby, DPM from Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Are Flat Feet?
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 one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?
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!
