Items filtered by date: April 2024

Mechanical and neurologic heel pain are two distinct types of heel discomfort, each with unique causes and characteristics. Mechanical heel pain can be triggered by overuse of the lower limbs or from wearing improper footwear that does not provide enough support. One common condition resulting from these issues is plantar fasciitis, where the plantar fascia ligament running along the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed. Another cause of mechanical heel pain is Achilles tendonitis, which involves inflammation of the Achilles tendon at the back of the leg. On the other hand, neurologic heel pain stems from nerve-related issues, such as tarsal tunnel syndrome, where the nerve inside the tarsal tunnel of the ankle is compressed. Pinched nerves that cause sharp, shooting pain are also a cause of neurologic heel pain. Understanding the origin of heel pain is important to identifying the right treatment. Mechanical issues might be addressed with orthotics, stretches, and proper footwear, while neurologic pain may require interventions like nerve decompression or medication to manage pain and inflammation. If you are suffering from heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today. 

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Podiatry Inc.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Beachwood, Mayfield Heights, Mentor, and Tallmadge, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A bunion is a deformity where the bottom bone of the big toe pushes toward the outside, creating a noticeable bump on the foot. As a result, the rest of the toe then moves toward the smaller toes. Bunions develop gradually over time due to inherited foot structure and the way each foot absorbs force during walking. The symptoms of bunions vary from none at all to severe discomfort, worsened by wearing tight or narrow shoes. Several treatment options exist that may help to alleviate symptoms without surgery. Non-operative interventions include wearing comfortable shoes with a wide toe box, using bunion pads to reduce irritation, and employing toe spacers to realign the toes. Practicing calf stretches to reduce stress on the foot and wearing custom orthotics can help. For those whose bunions persist despite non-operative measures, surgical intervention may be necessary. Advances in surgical techniques allow patients to return home the same day as the surgery, although full recovery may take from six months to a year. If you are experiencing bunion discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a full exam and appropriate treatment options.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Podiatry Inc.. Our doctors 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 our offices located in Beachwood, Mayfield Heights, Mentor, and Tallmadge, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Treating diabetic foot wounds requires a comprehensive approach focused on promoting healing and preventing further complications. It begins with identifying and addressing the factors that can contribute to the wound, such as wearing proper footwear and avoiding further injury. Keeping the wound clean and protected with specialized dressings is essential to create an optimal environment for healing. Regular removal of dead tissue and calluses helps prevent infections and allows new tissue to grow. Managing bacteria surrounding the wound site is especially vital, along with ensuring good blood flow to the wound. This may involve medications or procedures to improve circulation. Off-loading techniques, like using cushions or specialized shoes, help reduce pressure on the foot wound, allowing it to heal more effectively. A podiatrist can offer personalized care and guidance throughout the diabetic wound treatment process. If you have developed a diabetic foot wound, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for correct management tips.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with one of our podiatrists from Podiatry Inc.. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Beachwood, Mayfield Heights, Mentor, and Tallmadge, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A Jones fracture is a break at the base of the fifth metatarsal bone that connects the foot to the pinky toe. Common symptoms of a Jones fracture are bruising, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight or walking. Jones fractures can result from sudden force on the foot's outer side, often occurring during activities such as sports, dancing, or slips. Traumatic events like inversion sprains during sports or chronic overuse, such as prolonged walking or running on hard surfaces, may contribute to these injuries. Risk factors include participation in high impact activities like basketball or soccer, where sudden movements or pivoting are common. People with high arches may also be more susceptible to this type of fracture. Treatment options include casting and surgical intervention, depending on the severity. If you suspect a Jones fracture or are experiencing foot pain and swelling on the outside of the foot, it is suggested that you make an immediate appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Podiatry Inc.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Beachwood, Mayfield Heights, Mentor, and Tallmadge, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ingrown toenails, a common condition where the nail grows into the skin surrounding the toe, have a variety of risk factors. Trimming the toenails too short or rounding the edges of the nail can encourage the nail to grow into the skin rather than over it, so proper nail trimming is important. Wearing tight footwear and socks that squeeze the toes can also contribute to the problem by pushing the nail into the toe skin. Athletes and individuals who engage in activities that put repeated pressure on the toes are at an increased risk, as this pressure can cause the nail to grow incorrectly. While genetics do not usually play a major role in causing ingrown toenails, some people are predisposed to developing them because they are born with naturally curved or thick toenails. Also, poor foot hygiene and injury to the toenail area can increase the likelihood of developing an ingrown toenail. If you are suffering from an ingrown toenail, or wish to know how to prevent ingrown toenails from occurring in the future, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist. 

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Podiatry Inc.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Beachwood, Mayfield Heights, Mentor, and Tallmadge, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.