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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.
Treating Chronic Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Chronic foot ulcers are a challenging complication of diabetes. Diabetic ulcers may arise from a variety of factors, including impaired blood circulation, nerve damage, and high blood sugar levels. These factors collectively compromise the body's ability to heal and fight infection. There are many therapies that podiatrists may use to combat foot ulcers, such as advanced wound care techniques, infection control measures, and strategies to enhance circulation. One key treatment is debridement, which involves the careful removal of dead or infected tissue to promote healing. A podiatrist may apply specialized dressings and topical agents that foster a moist healing environment and support tissue regeneration. Another treatment, called offloading, involves reducing pressure on the ulcer through custom footwear or casts. These are not the only treatments that podiatrists may employ. If you are suffering from chronic foot ulcers due to diabetes, it is suggested you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist to monitor and treat the condition.
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 Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. 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 office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Achilles Tendon Pain
If you are experiencing pain in the back of your heel, you may have injured your Achilles tendon. This tendon, named after the legendary Greek warrior Achilles, connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Achilles tendon injuries are common among athletes, particularly in sports like basketball and soccer. Symptoms include pain in the back of the heel or up the back of the leg, ranging from mild to severe. These injuries can occur in different places along the tendon, with the most serious being Achilles tendinopathy, which involves chronic inflammation and fluid buildup. Treatment typically involves rest, gentle stretching, and strengthening exercises. Prevention strategies include paying attention to foot mechanics, adjusting running stride, and building flexibility and strength in the lower legs through targeted exercises. If you are experiencing pain in your Achilles tendon area, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and treatment.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is the Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.
What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?
There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.
Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms
- Inflammation
- Dull to severe pain
- Increased blood flow to the tendon
- Thickening of the tendon
Rupture Symptoms
- Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
- Total immobility
Treatment and Prevention
Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:
- Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
- Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Possible Causes of Painful Toes
Toe health can be connected to overall well-being. Despite this significance, feet are generally not given enough attention. Toe and toenail changes that may signal underlying health issues can include concave toenails, which can indicate anemia or autoimmune disorders, and tingling or numbness, which could be suggestive of diabetes-related neuropathy. Other potential toe issues, such as dark vertical bands or spots, washed out nails, painful and inflamed toe joints, clubbed toes, and cold or blue toes, can each potentially be indicative of different health concerns ranging from melanoma to heart disease. If you have painful toes or notice something not quite right about these appendages, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Causes Toe Pain?
Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.
Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
- Trauma
- Sports injury
- Wearing shoes that are too tight
- Arthritis
- Gout
- Corns and calluses
- Hammertoe
- Bunions
- Blisters
- Ingrown toenails
- Sprains
- Fractures (broken bones)
- Dislocations
When to See a Podiatrist
- Severe pain
- Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
- Signs of infection
- Continued swelling
- Pain that prevents walking
Diagnosis
In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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
Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?
Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!
Foot Dystonia
Dystonia is a neurological disorder causing involuntary muscle contractions and repetitive movements. When it affects the feet, it can lead to abnormal postures, twisting, and repetitive movements that affect mobility and balance. Foot dystonia can manifest as toe curling, arch cramping, or uncontrollable foot movements. These symptoms can cause discomfort, pain, and difficulty walking or standing. Additionally, foot dystonia may result in deformities, such as claw toes or high arches, over time. Treatment typically involves a combination of therapies, including medications, injections, and sometimes surgical interventions. If you or your child has unusual symptoms to do with movement of the feet, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and diagnosis. Regular monitoring and adjustments to treatment plans may be necessary to address changes in symptoms and optimize outcomes.
Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Rare Foot Conditions
The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist. Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care.
There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:
- Freiberg’s disease
- Kohler’s disease
- Maffucci syndrome
Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp.
Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.
Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking.
A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
How to Spot the Early Signs of Ingrown Toenails
Recognizing the early signs of an ingrown toenail can help you to avoid more serious complications by getting quicker treatment. One of the first signs is tenderness or pain along the edge of the toenail. You may feel it most when you walk or apply pressure to the area. As the condition progresses, redness and swelling may develop around the affected toenail, indicating inflammation and potential infection. The skin along the edge of the nail may become irritated or appear puffy. If there is pus or discharge appearing at the edge of the nail, the ingrown toenail has likely become infected. If you have an ingrown toenail, or struggle with recurrent ingrown toenails, it is suggested you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat the condition and prevent complications from arising.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.
Causes
- Bacterial infections
- Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
- Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
- Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
- Genetic predisposition
Prevention
Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.
Treatment
Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Biomechanical Impact of Wearing High Heels
High heels significantly impact walking, with notable effects on gait, biomechanics, and control. Wearing high heels can alter the way people walk in several ways, presenting valuable insights for both designers and podiatrists. The primary changes observed in high-heel walking encompass alterations in the foot's rollover function, modifications in ankle and knee joint dynamics, and shifts in lower back posture, accompanied by compromised step length and balance. The heightened heel height forces the foot into an increased plantar flexion, which, in turn, augments knee flexion and causes an increased curvature of the lower back. Understanding the biomechanical adjustments associated with high heel-wearing is vital for designing more comfortable and less detrimental footwear, in addition to addressing potential musculoskeletal issues arising from prolonged use. If you enjoy wearing high heels and want to continue wearing them while paying attention to your feet and body, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss this topic further.
High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Effects of High Heels on the Feet
High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal. Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.
Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?
- Ankle Joints
- Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
- Balls of the Feet
- Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
- Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain. The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.
What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?
- Corns
- Calluses
- Hammertoe
- Bunions
- Morton’s Neuroma
- Plantar Fasciitis
How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?
If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems. Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet. Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising. If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work. Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Why Live with Pain and Numbness in Your Feet?
Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.
Complications of Foot Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy can lead to significant medical complications, particularly affecting the feet, heart, and circulation. Diabetic polyneuropathy, a common variant, often results in diabetic foot ulcers, slow-healing skin wounds or sores, primarily due to reduced foot sensation, making injuries more likely. Elevated blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels, impairing foot blood supply and healing, sometimes progressing to gangrene. When infections in neuropathic feet worsen, they may require surgery to remove damaged tissue and antibiotic treatment. If you have peripheral neuropathy, and especially if you also have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist for ongoing treatment. Diagnosing problems as early as possible may help to prevent serious complications of peripheral neuropathy.
Neuropathy
Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with one of our podiatrists from Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.
What Is Neuropathy?
Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.
Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:
- Numbness
- Sensation loss
- Prickling and tingling sensations
- Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
- Muscle weakness
Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.
Treatment
To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.
Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
More...
Foot Pain Management
Managing foot pain involves a comprehensive approach aimed at ensuring effective relief and long-term foot health. Initially, a precise diagnosis from a podiatrist is essential, which is achieved through a combination of medical history assessment, physical examination, and diagnostic tests such as X-rays or MRI scans. Once the underlying cause is identified, various forms of treatment can be considered. Custom-made orthotic inserts tailored to provide personalized support, correct gait abnormalities, and alleviate pressure on problem areas of the feet can be prescribed. Suggestions for appropriate shoes for needed arch support, cushioning, and fit might be given. Foot splints or braces can be beneficial for specific conditions, and surgical procedures are considered when conservative measures fail to address structural issues or severe pain. Lifestyle modifications, including weight management and activity adjustments, are emphasized to reduce stress on the feet. If you are suffering from foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to manage the pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall quality of life.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. 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 our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Tips to Prevent Running Injuries
Preventing running injuries involves improving your form through targeted exercises. Incorporate core workouts such as glute bridges and side planks to bolster strength, balance, and stability, reducing the risk of overuse injuries. Maintain an erect spine, lengthen through the crown of your head, and perform head and neck exercises to build the strength necessary for good posture and a forward gaze. Pay attention to arm movement, keeping elbows bent at a 90 degree angle, and swing your arms forward and backward while avoiding crossing or twisting. In addition to these form improving practices, focus on improving hip and ankle mobility to reduce low back and knee injuries, and increase your steps per minute to minimize stress on your body. Gradually increase the duration, intensity, and frequency of your runs, and take breaks for muscle pain or injuries. Additionally, wear appropriate running shoes, avoiding overly cushioned options, and replace them regularly to ensure optimal support. If you are experiencing foot, toe, or ankle pain from running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and suggested treatment options.
All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists of Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
How to Prevent Running Injuries
There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.
More Tips for Preventing Injury
- Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
- Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
- “Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
- Cross-Training is Crucial
- Wear Proper Running Shoes
- Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause injury
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Plantar Warts Can Be Treated!
Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!
Podiatrists Are Foot Care Experts
Podiatrists are specialized healthcare professionals who focus on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disorders related to the feet and lower extremities. Podiatrists undergo extensive education and training, equipping them with the knowledge to address a spectrum of foot conditions, from common ailments to complex issues. Their responsibilities encompass conducting thorough examinations, utilizing diagnostic tools, and devising personalized treatment plans. Podiatrists commonly treat conditions such as bunions, heel pain, and toenail disorders. They may also provide guidance on proper foot care, footwear selection, and preventive measures. These professionals operate in diverse settings, including private practices, hospitals, and outpatient clinics. Some podiatrists specialize further in areas, such as sports medicine or surgery, offering comprehensive care for individuals of all ages. If you have foot or ankle problems, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.
If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact one of our podiatrists from Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is a Podiatrist?
A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.
What Do Podiatrists Do?
On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:
- Diagnose foot ailments such as ulcers, tumors, fractures, etc.
- Use innovative methods to treat conditions
- Use corrective orthotics, casts, and strappings to correct deformities
- Correct walking patterns and balance
- Provide individual consultations to patients
It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
