Plantar fasciitis causes heel pain that develops when the plantar fascia becomes irritated or strained. The plantar fascia is a band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot. Symptoms of plantar fasciitis include sharp heel pain with the first steps after waking or sitting. Pain may improve with movement, but can return after standing or activity. Risk factors include excess activity, tight calf muscles, and excess strain on the feet.

Several factors can contribute to plantar fasciitis. Repetitive impact from running or jumping can stress the plantar fascia. Standing for long periods can pressure the heel. Additionally, wearing unsupportive shoes may contribute to strain. A plantar fascia stretch can help lengthen tissue along the bottom of the foot. This stretch can be performed by sitting, crossing the affected foot over the opposite leg, and gently pulling the toes back until a stretch is comfortably felt.

An Achilles tendon stretch focuses on the calf and Achilles tendon, which connect the calf muscles to the heel. Tightness can increase stress through the foot during walking. A simple stretch involves standing near a wall with one leg behind the other, and keeping the back heel down while bending the front knee. A podiatrist may examine the feet, assess walking patterns, and identify contributing factors. Treatment may include stretching, activity changes, and other conservative care.

Consistency can support recovery from plantar fasciitis. Stretching should feel gentle rather than painful, and activities that sharply increase heel pain should be reduced. A podiatrist can monitor progress and adjust treatment when needed. Persistent heel pain should not be ignored because other conditions can cause similar symptoms. If you have plantar fasciitis or consistent heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions, which may include additional stretches for the plantar fascia.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with one of our podiatrists from Montgomery Foot Care Specialists. our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

• Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
• Similar to the previous one, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
• Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
• Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising and ice and rest the foot. It is advised to then see a podiatrist for help.

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.

Arthritis in the feet can make each step painful and limit daily movement. Osteoarthritis is a long-term joint condition that affects the entire joint and the tissues around it. In the foot, damaged joints can become painful, swollen, and stiff. Movement may become harder as symptoms progress. Reduced movement can also weaken nearby muscles and make physical activities more difficult. Although osteoarthritis is more frequent in older adults, it is not an unavoidable part of aging. Younger people can also develop it, especially after a joint injury or repeated stress.

Several factors can increase the risk of osteoarthritis. Previous joint injuries, repeated stress, and excess body weight can contribute to the condition. Genetics and age can also play a role. Symptoms can begin slowly, although they can appear more quickly after an injury or strain. Foot arthritis can affect mobility because the feet carry body weight and help the body move forward with every step. Pain and stiffness can make work or social activities harder. Some patients also experience discomfort while resting when osteoarthritis becomes severe.

A podiatrist can evaluate painful foot joints and determine how arthritis is affecting movement and function. An examination can assess swelling, joint motion, and areas of tenderness. Treatment can focus on reducing pressure on painful joints and supporting better mobility. A podiatrist can recommend braces or other supportive devices when appropriate. Care can also include guided exercises to strengthen muscles and maintain joint movement. If you have symptoms of arthritic foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and 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 term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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.

Properly fitting shoes can make a major difference in everyday foot comfort. Shoes that are too tight may squeeze the toes and create pressure points, while shoes that are too loose can allow excessive movement inside the shoe. Wearing the wrong size regularly may contribute to blisters, corns, and painful foot problems. A good shoe should feel comfortable from the beginning and provide enough room for the toes to move naturally. The heel should stay secure without rubbing. The arch area should feel supported without creating uncomfortable pressure. Choosing the right shoe size is especially important if you already experience foot pain or have a condition that changes your foot shape.

Start by tracing your foot on a piece of paper while standing. Measure the length and width of the outline to help determine your shoe size. Measure both feet because one foot may be larger than the other. Shop for shoes in the afternoon rather than at night, because feet often become larger during the day. Wear the type of socks you normally use with the shoes. Try on both shoes and walk around the store before buying them.  Do not assume shoes will stretch enough to become comfortable later.

Wearing improperly sized shoes can contribute to several foot conditions. Wearing tight shoes may increase pressure that contributes to bunion, hammertoe, and ingrown toenail pain. A podiatrist can examine your feet and identify problems related to footwear. Treatment may include addressing pressure areas, recommending supportive shoes, and treating irritation or inflammation. If pain is persistent, the podiatrist may use imaging tests to evaluate underlying bone or joint concerns.

The right shoes should support your feet without restricting natural movement. Pay attention to new discomfort rather than waiting for a small problem to become severe. If you have foot conditions from wearing the wrong size shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions and guidance on how to choose the right shoes. 

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Montgomery Foot Care Specialists. our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

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.

Rock climbing is an athletic activity that involves moving up natural rock formations or indoor climbing walls using strength, balance, and precise foot placement. Because the sport requires tight-fitting footwear and repeated pressure on the forefoot, wearing poorly fitted or inappropriate shoes can lead to several foot-related injuries. Common conditions include Achilles tendinopathy, which causes pain and stiffness along the back of the heel and Haglund's deformity that produces irritation near the heel bone. Hallux valgus, also known as bunions, plantar fasciitis involving inflammation of the heel tissue, and chronic ankle instability from repeated strain are other factors. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, treat injuries, and recommend supportive footwear. If climbing-related foot pain develops, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot and ankle injuries, helping you to protect foot health and maintain performance.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Montgomery Foot Care Specialists. 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 Montgomery, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.