It is believed that 75 percent of people will at some point experience foot pain. This should not come as a surprise, since we are on our feet numerous times daily for nearly our entire lives. The main cause of most foot pain starts with wearing shoes that do not fit properly, are tied too tightly, have heels that are too high, or squeeze the toes. Even exercising in shoes not appropriate for the activity can cause pain in your feet as well as legs, hips, and back. Long term effects include bunions, blisters, corns, and calluses. The next likely cause of foot pain is the way you walk. Rolling your feet inward or outward when you walk can be the cause of other problems, such as flat feet, arch pain, and heel pain. Certain medical conditions, such as gout and arthritis can cause painful inflammation of the bones, ligaments, and tendons of the feet. And since the feet have 26 bones, 33 joints, and more than 100 ligaments, this can be a problem. Finally, running on hard surfaces for long periods of time can cause stress fractures and other foot injuries. A podiatrist is an expert on dealing with the many causes and treatment of foot pain. Whether your pain is immediate or ongoing, it is a good idea to consult with a podiatrist.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from PA Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Allentown, Easton, Northampton, and Chew Street in Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A bony growth that forms on the back of the heel bone is known as a heel spur. It can gradually produce severe pain and discomfort, and it may become difficult to walk. A heel spur can develop for several reasons, including wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, exercising on hard surfaces, or standing for long periods. A common symptom that many people experience is a sharp pain in the bottom of the heel, and this may diminish while walking. After a proper diagnosis is performed, correct treatment can begin. It may be beneficial to practice specific stretches that can help to ease the pain of a heel spur. An effective stretch consists of standing on a step and lowering the heel until a gentle pull is felt. Some patients find it can help to wear custom-made orthotics that can control the excess motion that affects the bottom of the foot. Additionally, orthotics can help take the pressure off of a heel spur. If you are affected by this painful foot condition, please consult with a podiatrist who can determine what the best form of treatment is for you.

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 one of our podiatrists from PA Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors 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 Allentown, Easton, Northampton, and Chew Street in Allentown, PA . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

The ankle is a complex joint composed of several bones, ligaments, tendons, nerves, and muscles. Because it is critical in moving the foot in a variety of ways, the ankle is prone to becoming injured. One of the most common types of ankle injuries is an ankle sprain. This occurs when one or more ligaments that support and bind the ankle are stretched beyond their normal bounds and become injured or torn (either partially or fully). The pain and complexities of an ankle sprain can vary, depending upon how severe it has become injured and whether the ligament has torn. It is important to seek treatment from a podiatrist for any type of ankle sprain, as an improperly healed ankle sprain is likely to lead to additional sprains and possibly even chronic ankle instability. 

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, 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.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Allentown, Easton, Northampton, and Chew Street in Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.