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Causes and Treatment for Heel Pain

Heel pain, a common ailment, can be a source of discomfort that interferes with daily activities. The causes of heel pain can vary, with one of the most prevalent being plantar fasciitis. This condition involves inflammation of the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue that supports the arch of the foot. Other common culprits include Achilles tendonitis, heel spurs, and bursitis. The good news is that heel pain is often treatable. Treatment options for heel pain range from conservative methods to more advanced interventions. Resting and performing gentle stretching exercises can provide relief, while custom-made orthotics may help distribute pressure more evenly. In severe or persistent cases, minimally invasive procedures such as corticosteroid injections may be recommended. Consulting a podiatrist is crucial in determining the underlying cause, in addition to guiding you toward the most suitable treatment plan. By addressing the root cause and following a tailored treatment regimen, you can take significant steps towards a pain-free and active lifestyle. It is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose the cause for your heel pain and treat it accordingly. 

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Kutchback Podiatry. 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 feel free to contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Running With Flat Feet

Running is a pursuit that empowers both body and mind, regardless of foot arch type. Flat feet, often misunderstood, should not deter anyone from lacing up and hitting the track. There are various types of flat feet, each requiring a unique approach. Flexible flat feet involve arches that appear when one is off the foot, and rigid flat feet exhibit little to no arch, even when lifted. While some flat feet do not pose issues, others may lead to discomfort or pain during running. Wearing customized footwear with proper arch support is essential. Orthotics or insoles can aid in maintaining alignment and reducing strain. Performing strengthening exercises targeting foot muscles can enhance stability. Running with flat feet is indeed possible with the right knowledge, care, and preparation. If you have flat feet and are interested in pursuing running as a hobby, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can provide you with useful information.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Kutchback Podiatry. 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 our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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How Peripheral Artery Disease Can Affect the Feet

Peripheral artery disease, abbreviated PAD, also referred to as peripheral vascular disease, is a condition that arises from the reduced flow of blood to the body’s extremities, including the lower legs and feet. People with diabetes are more susceptible to developing PAD, as a result of weakened and damaged blood vessels from having high blood sugar. Blood clot formation within the vessels can also contribute to this condition. Conditions such as arthritis, which causes inflammation of the arteries, can further fuel peripheral artery disease. Other factors, such as smoking, hypertension, and obesity, increase the risk of developing PAD. Symptoms can include intermittent pain, coldness, numbness, and a bluish hue in the skin. In more advanced stages, wounds that resist healing, and areas of skin that blacken may develop due to the lack of adequate blood flow. In such cases, swift medical intervention is extremely important. If you suspect you may have peripheral artery disease that is affecting your lower extremities, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist, who is specifically trained to manage this condition.

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with one of our podiatrists  from Kutchback Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

  • Claudication (leg pain from walking)
  • Numbness in legs
  • Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
  • Paleness of the skin
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
  • Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Heel Pain Can Be Treated!

Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek professional help and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.

Lyme Disease and the Feet

Lyme disease, often transmitted by ticks, can bring about various symptoms that affect the feet and other parts of the body. While fever, fatigue, and rashes may signal its presence, a definitive diagnosis requires careful consideration of symptoms and circumstances. If one has been in wooded or grassy areas during tick season, it is possible to contract Lyme disease. Lyme disease's early signs, such as fever, chills, headache, fatigue, and muscle pain, can mimic a severe cold. Knee swelling is common, and joint pain may migrate across the body. As the disease progresses, headaches, Bell's palsy, and joint pain can intensify, and rare complications like heart involvement or mental health issues may arise. Shooting pains, numbness, or tingling in the hands and feet may be felt. It is suggested that you manage pain and inflammation and focus on your overall well-being to aid in healing. If you suspect you have Lyme disease, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and effective management.

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly.  If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact one of our podiatrists from Kutchback Podiatry. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable.  Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet. 

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Systemic Diseases of the Foot
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