The plantar fascia is a thick ligament that runs along the bottom of your foot and connects the heel bone to the toes. When the plantar fascia becomes inflamed, typically due to overuse, it can cause a condition called plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is characterized by a sharp, stabbing heel pain, arch pain, and pain that is at its worst when taking your first steps after a long resting period, such as when you first wake up in the morning. You may also notice swelling on the bottom of the heel.
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common foot ailments, and one of the most common causes of heel pain. Besides overuse from activities such as running or jumping, wearing shoes that do not have adequate cushioning and support, standing for prolonged periods of time, being obese, or having flat feet can all increase your risk of developing plantar fasciitis.
Fortunately, there are many treatments for this condition. Your chiropodist may recommend stretching exercises, activity and footwear changes, and icing the affected foot to help relieve pain. If pain persists after several weeks, your chiropodist may prescribe custom orthotics, pad, tape, strap, or immobilize the affected foot, or inject a corticosteroid into the area to reduce pain.
For more information about plantar fasciitis, please consult with a chiropodist.
Plantar fasciitis is a condition that occurs when the fibrous attachment that connects the toes to the heel becomes irritated and inflamed. This band of tissue is medically known as the plantar fascia and is essential in supporting the foot's arch and biomechanics during activities, such as walking and running. Excessive tension and stress can lead to damage and inflammation of the plantar fascia. The primary cause of plantar fasciitis is overuse, resulting from daily activities or intense physical exertion. This overuse can lead to inflammation, which causes swelling, tenderness, and pain primarily in one foot, though both feet can be affected simultaneously. Contributing factors to plantar fasciitis can include a sudden increase in physical activity, prolonged standing on hard surfaces, and walking barefoot. In addition, inadequate foot support from ill-fitting shoes, certain medical conditions, and rheumatoid arthritis may result in plantar fasciitis. Further, obesity, flat or high-arched feet, and lack of warmups before exercise may be factors. Regular use of high-heeled shoes, and wearing worn-out footwear are also known causes. Certain risk factors increase the likelihood of developing plantar fasciitis. Overweight individuals experiencing heightened pressure on the plantar fascia ligaments are more susceptible. Wearing unsupportive footwear, such as high heels, further elevates the risk. To reduce or eliminate the pain of plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist who can offer treatment options.
Plantar fasciitis can be painful and interfere with your daily activities. If you are experiencing foot or heel pain and believe you may be afflicted with plantar fasciitis, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis refers to the inflammation of the plantar fascia, a ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bone to the toes. Repetitive activities, such as running or jumping, can injure the plantar fascia over time. Plantar fasciitis can also be caused by flat feet, high arches, pregnancy, and activities that put excessive pressure on your feet, like standing all day for work. When the plantar fascia becomes inflamed, it causes pain and discomfort.
Symptoms
Typical symptoms of plantar fasciitis include:
Stabbing pain near the heel
Pain that is worst in the morning or after a period of rest
Pain that increases after exercising
Swelling
Tightness in the Achilles tendon
Diagnosis
Plantar fasciitis is typically diagnosed via medical history and physical examination.
Treatment
Treatments for plantar fasciitis include resting and icing the affected foot, stretching the foot, taking medications to reduce inflammation, and wearing orthotics. In severe cases where pain does not improve with conservative treatments, injections or surgery may be recommended.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Osteoarthritis is a condition in which the cartilage located on the ends of joints deteriorates over time. Cartilage is very important, as it protects and cushions the bones during movement. Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis and is associated with aging. It can affect any of the joints in the body, and frequently affects the joints of the feet and the ankles. Though rarer, osteoarthritis can also occur as a consequence of an injury, such as as a sprain or fracture, or as a result of abnormal foot biomechanics.
Symptoms of osteoarthritis include pain and stiffness in the joints, swelling, and difficulty walking or bending the joints. In some cases, bony protrusions called bone spurs can develop on the affected joints. Osteoarthritis is a progressive condition, meaning that it worsens over time. Diagnosing the condition early allows for earlier treatment, which can help preserve the health and function of your joints.
A variety of treatment options are available for osteoarthritis. Pain can often be minimized by taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, getting steroid injections into the affected joints, and wearing orthotics. Bracing or immobilizing the affected foot or ankle may help reduce inflammation and prevent deformity of the joint. Doing specific exercises can help strengthen the muscles in the feet and ankles to prevent injuries. In cases where more conservative treatments have failed or in which arthritis has progressed significantly, surgery may be an option. If you have osteoarthritis in your feet or ankles, it is recommended that you consult with a chiropodist.
Arthritis in the midfoot, a condition marked by inflammation of the joints, can significantly impact one's mobility and overall foot health. This form of arthritis affects the intricate network of joints connecting the tarsal bones in the middle of the foot. The condition often manifests as pain, swelling, and stiffness, hindering the natural range of motion. As the cartilage that cushions the joints wears down over time, the bones may rub against each other, exacerbating discomfort. Causes of midfoot arthritis vary and include age-related wear and tear, previous injuries, or underlying conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. Understanding the definition of midfoot arthritis is pivotal for early detection and intervention. By recognizing the causes and symptoms, individuals can work with chiropodists to develop personalized strategies that alleviate pain and preserve the functionality of this part of the foot. If you have pain in your foot, it is suggested that you contact a chiropodist who can accurately diagnose midfoot arthritis, and offer appropriate treatment options.
Osteoarthritis in the feet or ankles can be a painful and disabling condition that may interfere with your daily activities. If you have arthritis, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is a condition in which the protective layer of cartilage in the joints breaks down over time. This loss of cartilage causes the bones to rub together during movement, leading to pain and inflammation. Osteoarthritis is associated with aging, and often affects the small joints of the feet and ankles.
Symptoms
Symptoms of osteoarthritis include:
Joint pain
Joint stiffness
Swelling in or around the joint
Restricted range of motion
Difficulty walking
Diagnosis
Osteoarthritis can be diagnosed through physical examination. You may also need to have an X-ray taken to assess the extent of the damage caused by arthritis.
Treatment
Treatment for osteoarthritis focuses on reducing symptoms and improving the function of the affected joints. Conservative treatments include oral pain medications, orthotic devices, bracing or immobilizing the affected foot or ankle, steroid injections into the affected joint to reduce inflammation, and physical therapy. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs
Ankle fractures occur when one or more of the bones that make up the ankle are broken. This typically occurs following a sudden injury, such as stepping off a curb and severely twisting your ankle or suffering a strong impact while playing a sport.
Symptoms of an ankle fracture can include pain at the site of the break, swelling, bruising, blistering, difficulty walking and bearing weight on the affected ankle, and ankle deformity. In the case of an open fracture, the broken bone pokes through the skin, increasing the likelihood of infection and further complications.
Ankle fractures require prompt medical treatment. They can be diagnosed through physical examination and imaging studies, such as X-rays or bone scans. Treatment varies depending on the severity of the injury and may include resting, icing, compressing, and elevating the affected ankle, immobilization of the ankle, and taking pain medications. Surgery may be necessary in more severe cases. If you have injured your ankle, please seek the care of a chiropodist.
A broken ankle, a common injury, can bring excruciating pain and limited mobility. It typically occurs when one or more of the three main ankle bones consisting of the tibia, fibula, or talus are fractured. This injury is often the result of a traumatic event, such as a fall, twist, or impact. The symptoms of a broken ankle are hard to miss. Immediate pain and swelling around the ankle are typical, as well as bruising. Weight-bearing becomes almost impossible, and the ankle may appear deformed. The injured area can be tender to the touch. While the severity of a broken ankle can vary, it is essential to seek medical attention from a chiropodist who can provide a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment. This may involve casting, bracing, or surgery, depending on the extent of the injury. Understanding the implications of a broken ankle is the first step toward a successful recovery and restoration of normal function. If you have broken your ankle, it is strongly suggested that you confer with this type of medical professional who can accurately diagnose and treat this condition.
Running and walking are excellent activities to promote physical fitness and maintain mobility. But whether you are a runner or a walker, finding the right pair of shoes can be difficult. It can be helpful to review how running and walking shoes may differ and what kind of shoes each type of exercise needs.
Runners need shoes that have adequate cushioning in the heel and forefoot. This is because while running, the runner’s feet impact the ground with three times their body weight with each step. When considering the heel of the running shoes, note the heel height and whether or not the heel is flared. Runners need a higher heel than walkers in order to provide them with stability. A flared heel can also help with this. Finally, running shoes need to be flexible. Most running shoes are flexible in the arch or midfoot region, but it’s also possible to find running shoes that are flexible in the forefoot. The best running shoes for you will depend on your gait.
Walkers need shoes that are supportive but do not need the same level of cushioning as runners. The heels of walking shoes don’t need to be as high as those of running shoes, but a flared heel can help walkers with their foot stability as well. Walking shoes also need to be flexible.
With all of this said, walking shoes may be more difficult to find on the market than running shoes. This begs the question: can you walk in running shoes? The answer is yes. However, you should not run in walking shoes. For more information about this topic, please consult with a chiropodist.
Selecting the appropriate footwear for your fitness routine is necessary for comfort and injury prevention. Walking and running shoes may appear similar at first glance, but they are designed with distinct purposes in mind. Walking shoes are tailored for heel to toe motion, offering flexibility in the forefoot and ample cushioning to absorb shock during each step. These shoes are great for casual walkers and provide comfort for long strolls. Running shoes, on the other hand, are engineered to endure the higher impact of running. They offer enhanced cushioning, stability, and support, with a design that encourages a midfoot or forefoot strike. The outsole typically has deeper treads for better traction. Wearing the wrong type of shoe can lead to discomfort and potential injuries. So, whether you are walking or running, choosing the right footwear can help to optimize your performance and safeguard your foot health. If you would like additional information about how to choose the appropriate shoes for your fitness regime, it is suggested that you confer with a chiropodist.
Finding the right shoes can sometimes be a major hassle, especially if you intend to work out in them. There are shoes on the market designed specifically for running and walking, but it can be difficult to differentiate between the two and find the right shoes for you. If you’re having trouble finding the right shoes, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility.
What are the differences between running and walking shoes?
These two types of shoes vary along several parameters.
Cushioning: Runners need more cushioning in the heel and forefoot areas of the shoe, while walkers can get away with less cushioning.
Heel height: Runners need a higher heel to provide them with stability, but the ideal height of the heel for runners varies depending on their running gait. Walkers generally don’t need a built-up heel.
Heel flare: Flared heels can help provide extra stability for runners with certain gaits, while walkers may benefit from a flared heel to control the motion of their foot.
Flexibility: Both runners and walkers need shoes that are flexible.
For more information about the differences between walking and running shoes, and to figure out which shoes may be right for you, please consult with a chiropodist. Feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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!
