December 2017

Heel pain tends to be worse in the morning or after a long period of standing.  Gradually worsening over time, the pain may become increasingly severe while walking because of the weight placed on the heel.  A common cause of this condition may be a pre-existing injury affecting the plantar fascia, or the tissue that runs under the bottom of the foot.  The plantar fascia is a connective tendon that acts like a shock absorber, and if damage occurs, it may become inflamed and torn.  A common group of people that experience heel pain are joggers and older adults; usually 1 in 10 of the population will endure heel pain during their lives.  Treatments can include stretching regularly and wearing shoes with proper support and cushioning.  There are other methods that may prevent heel pain, including eating a healthy diet, partaking in regular exercise, and wearing shoes without heels.  A consultation with a podiatrist may be advised for proper diagnosis and treatment if your heel pain continues.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Kellvan Cheng, DPM of Elite Foot & Ankle. Our doctor 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 Carrollton, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

There are numerous bones, joints and muscles in the foot, therefore making it a complicated structure. The intrinsic muscles that are attached to the foot help in forward movement and maintaining balance, whereas the extrinsic muscles allow pointing and flexing of the foot to occur. It’s important to stretch these muscles to avoid certain painful conditions, such as plantar fasciitis. Sitting in a chair with your right foot on top of your left thigh and pulling the toes of your right foot back until you feel a pull on the bottom of the foot is an effective way to stretch these muscles. Repeating a few times with each foot will help the muscles stay limber, in addition to restoring the foot’s natural motion. Helping the arches stay strong by performing proper stretches may be beneficial for flat-footed patients. Please consult a podiatrist for foot stretches that are recommended for you.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Kellvan Cheng, DPM from Elite Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Great ways to stretch your feet:

• Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
• Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
• Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

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

Pitcher Dallas Keuchel of the Houston Astros had suffered a mild foot sprain and has been left walking in a boot while he recovers. Keuchel said that he suffered the injury when he left a restaurant and accidentally fell. It has been reported that the injury will not negatively impact his offseason workout regimen. Keuchel will most certainly have healed and be ready for the start of the next season.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Kellvan Cheng, DPM of Elite Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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