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Understanding Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most frequent causes of heel discomfort and develops when the strong band of tissue along the bottom of the foot becomes irritated or overstressed. This tissue, called the plantar fascia, supports the arch and helps absorb the force created during walking and standing. When the fascia becomes strained, tiny tears can develop that lead to inflammation and heel pain. Many people first notice discomfort when stepping out of bed in the morning or after sitting for a long period. The pain may feel sharp at the heel and sometimes spreads across the bottom of the foot. Causes include overuse, tight calf muscles, flat feet, high arches, or shoes that lack proper support. A podiatrist can evaluate the foot structure, identify the source of the irritation, and guide treatment. Care may include supportive footwear, custom orthotics, anti-inflammatory care, and targeted exercises to ease tension. If you have plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists from Pennsylvania Foot & Ankle. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Bensalem, Philadelphia, Northeast Philadelphia, Yardley, PA, and Hamilton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Dealing With Stiffness in the Big Toe
Stiffness in the big toe is often caused by a form of arthritis that affects the joint at the base of the toe called hallux rigidus. It mainly affects the metatarsophalangeal, or MTP, joint that connects the first long bone of the foot to the first bone of the toe. This joint plays a key role in walking and pushing off the ground. Over time, the cartilage, which is the smooth tissue that cushions joints, can wear down. This leads to pain and swelling and limits movement. People over 50 are more likely to develop big toe stiffness due to wear and tear. Symptoms include difficulty bending the toe, discomfort when walking, or a bump forming on top of the joint. A podiatrist can perform a physical exam, order X-rays, and prescribe medical treatment to reduce pain, improve joint motion, and slow joint damage. If you notice stiffness in the big toe, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.
Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Pennsylvania Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Causes Toe Pain?
Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.
Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
- Trauma
- Sports injury
- Wearing shoes that are too tight
- Arthritis
- Gout
- Corns and calluses
- Hammertoe
- Bunions
- Blisters
- Ingrown toenails
- Sprains
- Fractures (broken bones)
- Dislocations
When to See a Podiatrist
- Severe pain
- Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
- Signs of infection
- Continued swelling
- Pain that prevents walking
Diagnosis
In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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
Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.
If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Bensalem, Philadelphia, Northeast Philadelphia, Yardley, PA, and Hamilton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
When Oral Treatment Is Used for Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus, also called onychomycosis, often starts slowly, but can become stubborn, over time. Mild cases may respond to topical care, but thicker, discolored, or spreading infections often need a different approach. Oral treatment is sometimes recommended when multiple nails are involved, the nail is significantly thickened, or previous treatments have failed. These medications work from the inside out, reaching the nail through the bloodstream to target fungus beneath the nail plate. Because nails grow slowly, treatment usually continues for several months while healthy nails replace damaged nails. Oral therapy is not right for everyone and requires proper evaluation, including review of medical history and monitoring, when appropriate. Used correctly, it can improve nail appearance, comfort, and long-term results. If toenail fungus is persistent or worsening, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Pennsylvania Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Toenail Fungus Treatment
Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.
Antifungals & Deterrence
Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.
Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.
Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.
If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Bensalem, Philadelphia, Northeast Philadelphia, Yardley, PA, and Hamilton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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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