Plantar fasciitis is a condition that results in pain at the bottom of the foot, typically near the heel and arch. This pain often feels like a stabbing or bruising sensation, and may be most intense during the first steps in the morning. For some patients, the discomfort can also occur after standing for long periods of time, or when standing up after sitting for an extended time. Pain from plantar fasciitis may vary in intensity, with severe cases causing significant discomfort during daily activities. Risk factors include having flat feet, high arches, wearing unsupportive footwear, and standing for prolonged periods. Age, specific occupations, and certain pre-existing foot conditions can also contribute to the likelihood of developing plantar fasciitis. A podiatrist can assess your symptoms, identify the underlying causes, and provide effective treatment, such as custom orthotics or other methods to reduce stress on the plantar fascia and alleviate pain. If you have heel pain related to plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.
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 Foot and Ankle Reconstruction of Georgia. 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 our offices located in Woodstock, Jasper, and Marietta, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Obesity can impact the foot and ankle due to the added weight and increased pressure. The excess weight can lead to joint strain and increased wear on the bones, particularly in the feet and ankles. Over time, this added stress can contribute to the development of arthritis, causing pain, swelling, and limited mobility. Musculoskeletal problems, such as tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, are also more common in individuals who are obese due to the constant pressure on the foot structures. Walking up a flight of stairs or on an incline can further worsen this pressure, increasing ankle stress by four to six times compared to walking on level ground. This added strain can accelerate joint deterioration and lead to more severe foot and ankle conditions, making it vital for individuals with obesity to manage their weight and seek proper care for their feet. If you are overweight and have foot or ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for treatment.
Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Reconstruction of Georgia. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Obesity and Your Feet
Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.
Problems & Complications
Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.
Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.
Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Woodstock, Jasper, and Marietta, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Gout is a form of arthritis that occurs when uric acid builds up in the blood, forming crystals that accumulate in the joints, causing severe pain and swelling. It commonly affects the big toe but can occur in other joints as well. Symptoms of gout include intense, sudden pain, redness, warmth, and swelling in the affected joint. Diagnosing gout typically involves a physical examination, blood tests to check uric acid levels, and sometimes joint fluid analysis to detect uric acid crystals. Living with gout requires managing symptoms and preventing flare-ups. This can be done through dietary changes, such as limiting foods high in purines and taking medications to lower uric acid levels. Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight can also help reduce the risk of future attacks. Gout attacks can be excruciating. If this has happened to you, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you manage this painful condition.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Reconstruction of Georgia. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.
People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.
Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Woodstock, Jasper, and Marietta, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Diabetes can significantly impact the health of the feet, leading to complications that may affect the toes, feet, and ankles. Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage the peripheral nerves, a condition known as diabetic neuropathy. This nerve damage can cause tingling, pain, or loss of sensation, which makes it difficult to notice injuries like blisters or cuts. When unnoticed and untreated, these minor issues can develop into infections or ulcers. Diabetes also can impair blood circulation to the feet, reducing the ability to heal and increasing the risk of gangrene in severe cases. People with diabetes may also develop foot deformities, such as Charcot's foot, which causes swelling and bone changes that alter the shape of the foot. Preventive measures are essential, including regular inspections by a podiatrist, along with improved daily foot care habits. A podiatrist can monitor your feet for early signs of complications and offer appropriate wound care treatment as needed. If you have foot problems as a complication of diabetes, it is suggested that you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.
Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Reconstruction of Georgia. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.
The Importance of Caring for Your Feet
- Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
- Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
- Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.
Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.
It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Woodstock, Jasper, and Marietta, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
