Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia, a broad ligament that lies under the foot, becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress or strain. The hallmark symptom of plantar fasciitis is sharp, stabbing heel pain that can also radiate along the arch or sole of the foot. It typically worsens in the morning or after prolonged rest but often subsides with movement. Swelling and redness around the heel and arch area may accompany inflammation, and the affected area may feel tender or puffy. Stiffness and tightness in the foot can worsen throughout the day with increased activity. Discomfort in the foot's arch is also a common symptom of plantar fasciitis, limiting mobility and affecting daily activities. Pain and discomfort in the Achilles tendon may result from altered foot movement patterns caused by this condition. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plan.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Arthur Segall, Jr., DPM from Segall Foot and Ankle. Our doctor 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
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 Plantation, and Ft. Lauderdale, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Despite its association with strength, the Achilles tendon is susceptible to injury which can lead to discomfort and impair mobility. Several factors contribute to the development of Achilles tendonitis, including wearing improper footwear, overexertion during activities like speed or mountain running, and insufficient recovery time between training sessions. Other causes can include incorrect loading of weight on the legs or feet, poor running technique, and a lack of proper warm-up exercises. These factors collectively strain this strong tendon, leading to micro-tears in its structure. If left untreated, Achilles tendonitis can progress through various stages of severity. Initially, Achilles tendonitis may cause discomfort during activity or mild pain, which diminishes with rest and conservative measures. However, as the condition progresses, symptoms worsen, with visible changes in the tendon's structure and increased pain levels. Scar tissue formation and a loss of full functionality characterize the advanced stage of this injury. If you are experiencing Achilles tendon pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Arthur Segall, Jr., DPM of Segall Foot and Ankle. Our doctor 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 offices located in Plantation, and Ft. Lauderdale, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
As you age, the risk of falls becomes a serious concern. Statistics reveal that more than one-fourth of older adults experience a fall each year. Many falls go unreported to doctors despite the doubled chances of falling again after the first incident. Falls often result in severe consequences, such as broken bones or head injuries that may compromise physical health and reduce independence. Contributing factors to falling include foot pain or wearing poorly fitting footwear. Additionally, lower body weakness, vision problems, and medication side effects can contribute to the risk of falls in older adults. To help prevent falls, seniors are encouraged to schedule appointments with a podiatrist to assess foot health, footwear, and gait abnormalities. Engaging in regular strength and balance exercises can help by improving stability and reducing fall risk. Regular eye exams and updating eyeglasses as needed can enhance visual clarity, especially for outdoor activities. Making the home environment safer by eliminating trip hazards, installing grab bars in bathrooms, and ensuring adequate lighting is also important in fall prevention. If you have injured your feet during a fall, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.
Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Arthur Segall, Jr., DPM from Segall Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.
Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.
How to Prevent Falls
Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:
Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
Utilizing a walker or cane
Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness
Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Plantation, and Ft. Lauderdale, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Understanding the causes of foot pain in children is essential for parents. Common factors that may affect your child’s feet include wearing ill-fitting shoes without proper cushioning, which can lead to pain over time. Conditions like Achilles tendonitis, often observed in active children, result from repetitive strain on the Achilles tendon and can lead to swelling and pain. Fractures and injuries can cause acute pain and contribute to the development of bunions. Bursitis and corns or calluses, often caused by wearing poorly fitting shoes, can result in inflammation and thickened skin. Structural issues, such as flat feet, or postural defects may also contribute to childhood foot discomfort. Inflammatory conditions like juvenile arthritis can cause persistent foot pain. For appropriate treatment to address your child's foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can conduct a full exam and offer an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.
Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Arthur Segall, Jr., DPM of Segall Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...
Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.
Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.
Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.
As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’.
As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.
Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.
Be watchful for any pain or injury.
Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.
Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Plantation, and Ft. Lauderdale, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
