Plantar fasciitis is one of the common causes of heel pain. It develops when the plantar fascia, a band of tissue along the foot, becomes irritated or damaged. This tissue connects the heel bone to the base of the toes and helps support the arch. It also acts like a shock absorber during walking and running. When the plantar fascia is repeatedly stressed, areas can develop inflammation and tissue changes. Pain is often strongest with the first steps after waking, or after sitting for a while.

Several factors can increase the risk of plantar fasciitis. Running, walking, or standing for long periods can place repeated stress on the plantar fascia. Wearing unsupportive shoes may also increase strain on the foot. Other risk factors include tight calf muscles, a high arch, and sudden increases in activity. Age can play a role as well, since the plantar fascia can become less flexible over time. Additionally, a change in activity level or training surface may also trigger symptoms.

The main symptom is usually a sharp or aching pain near the bottom of the heel. Discomfort may improve after moving around but return after prolonged activity or rest. A podiatrist will review your symptoms and examine your foot, ankle, and walking pattern. Imaging tests may be recommended when another condition needs to be ruled out. Treatment options include activity changes, wearing supportive footwear, and other measures based on your needs. More persistent cases may require additional treatment options.

Understanding plantar fasciitis can help you recognize symptoms before heel pain interferes with daily activities. A podiatrist can identify contributing factors and create a treatment plan that supports healing and comfortable movement. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat plantar fasciitis.

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 podiatrists from Florida. 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 North Miami, and Pembroke Pines, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Psoriatic arthritis in the feet is a chronic inflammatory condition that can affect the joints, tendons, and surrounding tissues. It often develops in people who have psoriasis, a skin condition that causes dry, scaly patches. However, joint symptoms can sometimes appear before noticeable skin changes. Psoriatic arthritis may affect one or several joints and can make walking, standing, and daily activities uncomfortable. Early attention can help protect joint function and reduce ongoing inflammation.

Symptoms can vary from person to person. Common signs include foot pain, joint swelling, and tenderness. The length of the toes may become swollen, creating a sausage-like appearance called dactylitis. The heels may also hurt when inflammation affects the Achilles tendon or plantar fascia. Some people notice stiffness that is worse in the morning or after resting. Toenail changes, such as pitting or separation from the nail bed, may also occur.

Several factors can increase the risk of developing psoriatic arthritis. Having psoriasis is the strongest known risk factor, especially when skin or nail symptoms are present. A family history of psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis can also increase risk. The exact cause is not fully understood, but the condition involves an abnormal immune response that causes inflammation. Genetic factors and certain environmental triggers may contribute. Injury, infection, or significant physical stress may also play a role in some people.

A podiatrist will examine the feet, ankles, and joints, while reviewing symptoms and medical history. Imaging or laboratory testing may be recommended to help identify joint changes or rule out other causes of foot pain. Treatment may include recommendations for supportive footwear and custom orthotics. A podiatrist may also address painful pressure areas and provide ongoing foot care. If you have psoriatic arthritis in your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Florida. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in North Miami, and Pembroke Pines, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Toe pain can develop after an injury, and a fracture is one possible cause. Toe fractures commonly occur when a heavy object falls on the foot or when a toe is forcefully stubbed. These injuries can affect movement because the toes help support the foot while walking. Common signs of a fractured toe include pain, swelling, and tenderness. Bleeding may also develop beneath the toenail, particularly when the toe has been crushed. Although many toe fractures involve little movement of the broken bone, certain injuries can be more complicated and require medical attention.

Diagnosing a toe fracture depends partly on the location and appearance of the injury. X-rays may be needed when the toe appears rotated, a joint may be involved, or part of the big toe is injured. When imaging is necessary, different X-ray views can help medical professionals examine the damaged bone. A displaced fracture means that the broken portions of bone have moved out of their normal position. A toe that appears deformed may indicate a more complicated injury. Fractures involving the big toe can require particular attention because this toe plays an important role in supporting the foot.

A podiatrist can examine toe pain after an injury and determine whether a fracture may be responsible. The examination can assess swelling and tenderness while checking the position of the injured toe. Imaging can provide additional information when needed. Treatment depends on the type and severity of the injury. Many toe fractures involve stabilizing the injured toe next to another toe. However, a displaced fracture may require the bone to be returned to its proper position before stabilization. Certain fractures may require other measures to keep the bone positioned during healing. Professional evaluation can help determine appropriate treatment. If ongoing toe pain, swelling, or tenderness follows an injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Florida. 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 contact our offices located in North Miami, and Pembroke Pines, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A broken ankle occurs when one or more of the bones in the ankle joint fracture. This often affects the surrounding muscles, ligaments, tendons, and nerves that support normal movement. This injury commonly results from falls, sports accidents, twisting motions, or direct impact to the ankle. Damage to nearby soft tissues may also contribute to pain and instability during recovery. Symptoms include severe pain, swelling, bruising, tenderness, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot. Risk factors include high-impact activities, weak bones, poor balance, and previous ankle injuries. Recovery time for many ankle fractures is often about four to six weeks, depending on severity and treatment. There may be instruction about driving, manual work, and participating in contact sports . A podiatrist can evaluate the injury and guide appropriate recovery. If you have fractured your ankle, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Florida. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
• Swelling around the area
• Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in North Miami, and Pembroke Pines, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.