Heel Pain That Keeps You From Staying Active

Persistent plantar fasciitis can make it difficult to stay active and enjoy everyday movement. The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot and supports the arch. When this tissue becomes irritated or strained, it often causes sharp heel pain, especially during the first steps in the morning or after long periods of sitting. Many people try to push through the discomfort, but ongoing strain can worsen the condition. Walking, exercising, or even standing for long periods may become uncomfortable. Over time, reduced activity can affect overall health and limit participation in favorite hobbies such as walking, fitness classes, or recreational sports. Wearing supportive footwear, gentle stretching, and rest may help reduce irritation in the early stages. When heel pain is persistent and continues or interferes with daily activity, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists  from Montgomery Foot Care Specialists. our doctors 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

How Can It Be Treated?

  • Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
  • 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 office located in Montgomery, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Ankle Fracture? Don’t Wait for Treatment

If you're suffering from an ankle fracture, professional attention shouldn't wait. Fractures may worsen over time and can make completing everyday activities incredibly difficult. See your specialist for treatment and guidance through the healing process. 

Understanding Heel Spurs and How They Develop

A heel spur is a small bony growth that forms where the heel bone meets the soft tissues of the foot. It often develops gradually in response to ongoing strain, tight muscles, or repeated pressure on the heel. Many people are surprised to learn that the spur itself is not always the source of discomfort. Instead, the surrounding inflammation and irritation can create sharp or aching pain when standing, walking, or getting out of bed in the morning. Flat feet, high arches, or worn footwear may contribute to the problem by placing added stress on the heel. Early attention can prevent symptoms from becoming more persistent. Supportive shoes, stretching, and reducing pressure in the area can help calm irritation, but lasting heel pain should never be ignored. If you notice recurring discomfort in your heel or suspect a heel spur, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a clear diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact one of our podiatrists from Montgomery Foot Care Specialists. our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Montgomery, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Protecting Foot Health When You Have Inflammatory Arthritis

Inflammatory arthritis is a group of conditions in which the immune system causes ongoing joint inflammation. Common types include rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and gout. These conditions often affect the feet and ankles early, leading to pain, swelling, stiffness, and changes in joint structure. Over time, inflammation can alter foot shape, increase pressure points, and make walking difficult. Proper foot care helps reduce discomfort and protect mobility. Wearing supportive footwear with cushioning and adequate toe space can limit joint stress, while custom orthotics may improve alignment and pressure distribution. Gentle movement, stretching, and pacing daily activities can also help manage symptoms. Swelling and joint changes increase the risk of skin irritation, calluses, and nail problems, making routine foot checks important. If foot pain, deformity, or walking difficulty develops, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Montgomery Foot Care Specialists. 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 office located in Montgomery, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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A Hidden Nerve Problem That Can Cause Tingling Feet

Tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs when a major nerve on the inside of the ankle becomes compressed as it travels into the foot. This pressure can create tingling, burning, numbness, or sharp discomfort that may radiate into the arch, heel, or toes. Symptoms often feel worse after long periods of standing or walking, and some people notice relief only when they rest. Because the nerve sits in a tight space surrounded by ligaments and bone, anything that increases swelling or strain in the area can trigger irritation, including flat feet, prior injury, or certain medical conditions. Ignoring these sensations can lead to ongoing instability or increasing sensitivity in the foot. Early care focuses on reducing pressure, improving support, and calming inflammation to protect the nerve. If the tingling or burning continues or begins to affect your daily routine, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact one of our podiatrists of Montgomery Foot Care Specialists. 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 office located in Montgomery, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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