Managing Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis affects the broad band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes, known as the plantar fascia. Pain in the heel and arch of the foot is the result of excessive strain, tearing, or wearing out of this ligament. It is often most noticeable when taking the first steps in the morning, or after long periods of rest. Factors such as spending extended time on your feet, having tight calf muscles, high arches or flat feet can increase the risk of developing plantar fasciitis. A podiatrist can assess your symptoms and develop a treatment plan that may include using orthotics and performing specific calf and foot stretches to improve flexibility. In addition, taking smaller steps, avoiding walking barefoot, and reducing high-impact activities like jogging may be suggested. Weight management may also be part of the treatment strategy, as excess weight can increase pain. If you have pain from plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our doctors from Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

  • Excessive running
  • Having high arches in your feet
  • Other foot issues such as flat feet
  • Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
  • Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

  • Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Agoura Hills, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks Marin St., and Thousand Oaks Haaland Drive, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

 

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Understanding Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition caused by compression of the posterior tibial nerve, which runs along the inner ankle. This nerve travels through a narrow space called the tarsal tunnel, and when it is compressed, it can lead to symptoms like pain, tingling, burning, or numbness in the foot and ankle. The discomfort may radiate from the ankle into the sole of the foot and is often worse after prolonged standing, walking, or physical activity. Causes of tarsal tunnel syndrome include repetitive strain, injury, flat feet, or conditions like arthritis that add pressure on the nerve. Diagnosis usually involves a physical examination, nerve conduction tests, and imaging. Treatment can range from rest to orthotics to reduce strain. In severe cases, surgery may be needed to relieve pressure on the nerve and alleviate symptoms. If you have symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact one of our doctors of Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

  • Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
  • Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
  • At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

  • Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
  • The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
  • If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Agoura Hills, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks Marin St., and Thousand Oaks Haaland Drive, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Where Do Foot Corns Develop?

A foot corn is a thick, hardened area of skin that forms due to repeated friction or pressure. It most commonly appears on the toes or the soles of the feet, where shoes or other foot coverings create constant rubbing. Corns can develop on the top of the toes, between the toes, or on the heels, often causing discomfort or pain when walking. The primary cause of corns is wearing ill-fitting shoes that do not provide enough room or support. Tight shoes, high heels, or sandals that do not properly align the foot can all contribute to the formation of corns. To prevent foot corns, wearing shoes that fit properly and provide sufficient cushioning is essential. Corns can cause pain and discomfort, and it may become difficult to complete daily activities. If you have developed a corn, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief and prevention techniques. 

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our doctors of  Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

  • Well-fitting socks
  • Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
  • Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctors to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Agoura Hills, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks Marin St., and Thousand Oaks Haaland Drive, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Corns: What Are They, and How Do You Get Rid of Them

Heel Pain in the Morning?

Heel pain can negatively affect your day-to-day life. Simple activities like walking can become incredibly uncomfortable or painful due to heel pain.

Don’t live with heel pain and get treated.

Diabetic Neuropathy and the Feet

Diabetic neuropathy is nerve damage that frequently affects the feet and lower leg. It results from high blood sugar levels, causing numbness, tingling, or burning sensations in the feet, along with muscle weakness that can impact walking. Reduced sensation also makes it difficult to feel injuries, leading to unnoticed cuts or sores that heal slowly. Left untreated, these injuries may worsen, heightening the risk of infections and ulcers. For those with diabetic neuropathy, routine foot care is essential to prevent complications. A podiatrist can assist by evaluating the feet, monitoring any signs of damage, and providing guidance on footwear and skin care. This foot doctor can also suggest lifestyle modifications to support foot health and help manage the condition effectively. Regular checkups with a podiatrist help to reduce the risk of severe foot problems that are associated with diabetic neuropathy. If you have symptoms of neuropathy in the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and regular treatment.

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 doctors from Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center. 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 offices located in Agoura Hills, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks Marin St., and Thousand Oaks Haaland Drive, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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