The plantar fascia is a connective band of tissue linking the heel with the toes. Since it is located on the bottom of the foot and is constantly used while standing, walking, running, and jumping, it may become torn, irritated, and swollen from overuse. The medical term for this condition is plantar fasciitis and it is the most common form of heel pain. Pain from plantar fasciitis is usually at its worst first thing in the morning after the plantar fascia has tightened overnight. After walking around and warming the body up, the pain typically subsides only to return later in the day. Because it can be caused by walking, running, and doing repetitive movements, plantar fasciitis has been nicknamed policeman’s heel, runner’s heel, and tennis heel. People who are elderly, obese, or work on their feet all day are more susceptible to acquiring this condition. Additionally, people who have high arches, flat fleet, or certain medical conditions are more at risk. Podiatrists have extensive experience and several effective methods for treating plantar fasciitis because it is so common. If you believe you have this condition, it is advised to make an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide a proper diagnosis, followed by starting correct treatment techniques.

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 PA Foot & Ankle Associates. 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 Pennsylvania . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Flat feet, also known as pes planus, is characterized by a collapse in the arch of the foot and a sagging of the heel. Babies are born with flat feet, but around 3 to 5 years of age, the arch begins to develop. There are three types of flat feet. Flexible flat feet impacts both feet, is typical in children, and does not cause pain. Flexible flat feet with a shortened Achilles tendon are rarely seen in kids and can cause pain, even disability. Rigid flat feet are least common and affects those with problems in the tarsal bones of the feet. This last type of flat feet is as likely to impact both feet as not and will often lead to disability and pain. If one suspects their child has flat feet and this has not resolved by around age 8 or if pain is involved, it is suggested that a podiatrist be consulted to examine the child’s feet and develop the best plan to treat the condition.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from PA Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors 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 Pennsylvania . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Corns are small, round patches of thickened skin. Hard corns usually develop on the smaller toes due to shoes rubbing against them. Soft corns are more rubbery in texture, and typically develop in between the toes. They are softer due to sweat between the toes that keep them moist. Factors such as thin skin, boney toes, or deformities such as hammertoes and bunions can make a person more likely to develop corns. The best way to avoid corns from developing is to wear shoes that fit properly and have room in the toes. High heels and pointy shoes force the toes into unnaturally tight spaces that can cause them to rub against each other and the shoe. A corn can become painful when shoes press down on the corn, forcing it down on the underlying layers of skin. In rare cases, a corn can become infected. It is wise to contact a podiatrist who can effectively and safely treat corns. This is especially important for people with diabetes and the elderly. 

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of PA Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Pennsylvania . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.