Plantar fasciitis is believed to be the most common complaint of heel pain. Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia, a broad band of tissue on the sole that supports the arch. This inflammation can make your heel hurt, swell, or turn red, particularly when getting out of bed in the morning. The causes of plantar fasciitis are varied, often stemming from factors like foot and calf tightness, weak foot muscles, or undue stress on the arch. Excessive running, wearing poorly fitted shoes, and some work actions can make the condition worse. Treatment focuses on addressing the root causes and reducing inflammation. It may involve wearing shoes with better arch support, changing shoe size, and moderating activities that strain the foot. Stretching and strengthening exercises, like towel curls, may help reduce symptoms. If you have developed plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who specializes in managing this condition. 

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 DeCaro Total Foot Care 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 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 West Hatfield, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Heel pain can be a real hindrance, affecting your daily life and mobility. Recognizing symptoms of heel pain helps you identify the cause and find relief. Plantar fasciitis is the most common complaint associated with heel pain. It often causes a sharp pain in the heel, especially in the morning. This condition occurs when the plantar fascia, the tissue connecting your heel bone to your toes, becomes inflamed. Achilles tendinitis results in pain in the back of the heel as the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, is torn and becomes inflamed. Heel spurs, bony growths on the underside of the heel bone, often accompany conditions like plantar fasciitis and may induce further pain. Bursitis, the inflammation of the bursa sacs around the heel, can lead to pain when walking or wearing tight-fitting shoes. Stress fractures, tiny cracks in the heel bone caused by repetitive stress, result in localized pain. If you're experiencing heel pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an examination and a diagnosis. Then this medically trained foot doctor can formulate a  personalized treatment plan to get you back on your feet pain-free.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of DeCaro Total Foot Care Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in West Hatfield, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A foot fracture, also known as a broken foot, can vary in severity, from small hairline cracks to complete bone breaks. The human foot is a complex structure comprising 26 bones, making it susceptible to a variety of fracture types. Foot fractures often result from traumatic incidents, such as falls, sports injuries, or accidents. They can also occur due to repetitive stress on the foot over time, especially in athletes or individuals engaged in high-impact activities. Common symptoms of a foot fracture include pain, swelling, and bruising, and it can also be difficult to walk. A diagnosis typically involves physical examination, X-rays, or other imaging tests to determine the type and extent of the fracture. Treatment options can vary depending on the fracture's severity and location. Mild fractures may heal with rest, immobilization, and pain management. Conversely,  more severe cases may require casting, surgery, or other interventions to ensure proper healing that can restore normal foot function. In conclusion, a foot fracture is a break in one or more of the foot's many bones, often resulting from trauma or repetitive stress. If you have broken your foot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can provide you with an accurate diagnosis and offer the treatment plan that is right for you.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from DeCaro Total Foot Care Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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

Running is thought to be a good way to stay fit and healthy, but it also comes with risks. Foot and ankle injuries are all too common among runners. Overuse is a prevalent issue, usually stemming from pushing your body too hard or increasing your mileage too quickly. These actions can lead to problems like plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and stress fractures. Poor footwear choices also play a significant role in causing foot or ankle injuries. Worn-out or ill-fitting shoes fail to provide the necessary support and cushioning, increasing the risk of injuries. Ensuring your shoes are the right fit for your feet and running style is important. Inadequate warm-up routines can strain the muscles and ligaments, making them more susceptible to injuries. In addition, running on uneven terrain can increase the likelihood of twisting an ankle. Biomechanical issues, such as overpronation or supination, can place extra stress on your feet and ankles, making them prone to injury. If you experience persistent pain or discomfort as a result of your running activity, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists of DeCaro Total Foot Care Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

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