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It's Time for Beautiful Feet
Heel Pain Can Be Treated!
Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?
Why Live with Pain and Numbness in Your Feet?
Do Your Child's Feet Hurt?
Wounds That Don't Heal Need to Be Checked
Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?
Possible Causes of Plantar Fasciitis
There is a portion of tissue that is located on the bottom of the foot that is known as the plantar fascia. It connects the heel to the toes, and a healthy plantar fascia is crucial in performing daily functions. There are certain activities that can cause the condition that is referred to as plantar fasciitis, and this can cause severe pain and discomfort. Plantar fasciitis can gradually develop as a result of standing on hard surfaces for the majority of the day, or it may come from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. Many people who enjoy running may experience this type of foot condition, and it may happen from consistent pressure that is put on the heels. If you have developed plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly 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 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.
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 one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Consuming Specific Foods May Cause Gout
Uric acid is a chemical in the body. When an excess of uric acid exists, crystals may form surrounding the joints in the big toe, possibly causing a condition that is known as gout. Severe pain and discomfort often accompanies gout. Additional symptoms can include difficulty in moving the affected toe, and the toe may appear red and swollen. Patients may be prone to developing gout due to genetic traits, or if certain foods are consumed in excess. These can include shellfish, red meat, and drinks that have a high sugar content. There may be existing medical conditions that can contribute to the onset of gout. These can consist of psoriasis, high blood pressure, and thyroid disease. If you have been afflicted with gout, it is strongly suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Richard P. Jacoby, DPM from Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor 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 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 Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?
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Gout Pain Can Be Managed
Do I Need Bunion Surgery?
A bunion is a bony bump that forms along the base of the big toe. Bunions can cause pain and stiffness in the affected foot, as well as swelling. Sometimes surgery, also known as a bunionectomy, may be necessary to correct the deformity and relieve the pain. You may consider bunion surgery if you have severe pain when walking, even when you’re wearing flat comfortable shoes, or when you are unable to bend or straighten the big toe. Other reasons to consider surgery can be chronic inflammation of the big toe that doesn’t go away with rest or medicine, if the big toe becomes deformed, or if the big toe bends towards the smaller toes. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity of your bunion and determine if surgery is the correct method of treatment for you.
If you are suffering from bunions, contact Richard P. Jacoby, DPM of Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is a Bunion?
A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.
Why Do Bunions Form?
Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary
Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions
How Are Bunions Diagnosed?
Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.
How Are Bunions Treated?
- Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
- Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
- Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
- Orthotics or foot inserts
- Surgery
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 care needs.