May 2024

Plantar fasciitis is a foot condition characterized by inflammation and degeneration of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel to the toes. This condition often develops gradually over time, resulting from repetitive strain and stress on the plantar fascia. Activities that involve prolonged standing, walking, or running, especially on hard surfaces, can worsen the problem. Additionally, factors such as obesity, tight calf muscles, high arches, flat feet, and non-supportive footwear can increase the risk of developing plantar fasciitis. Symptoms include heel pain, particularly in the morning or after periods of inactivity, which can worsen with activity. While plantar fasciitis can be challenging to manage, various treatment options, including rest, stretching exercises, orthotic devices, and in severe cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery, can help alleviate pain and promote healing. If you have persistent heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat the cause.

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 Piedmont Podiatry Associates. 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 one of our offices located in Greenville, and Easley, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition affecting the tibial nerve as it passes through the tarsal tunnel, located on the inside of the ankle. It primarily affects individuals who engage in repetitive activities or have deformities, such as flat feet. The syndrome occurs when the nerve becomes compressed, leading to symptoms like tingling, burning sensations, numbness, or shooting pain along the inner ankle and sole of the foot. Diagnosis generally involves a physical examination, medical history review, and possibly nerve conduction studies or imaging tests to confirm the compression. If you have symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment. This type of healthcare professional can help you manage the condition by suggesting conservative treatments first. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to relieve pressure on the nerve and alleviate symptoms, restoring comfort and function to the affected foot.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact one of our podiatrists of Piedmont Podiatry Associates. 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 feel free to contact one of our offices located in Greenville, and Easley, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ensuring proper shoe fit begins with accurate measurements of your feet. Start by placing a piece of paper flat against the floor and standing on it with your heel against a wall. Using a pen or pencil, mark the longest point of your foot at the tip of your longest toe. Measure the distance from the edge of the paper to the mark to determine your heel-to-toe length. Next, find your heel-to-ball length by measuring from the back of your heel to the point where your foot arches at its widest. Finally, measure the width of your foot by placing a measuring tape or ruler across the widest part of your foot. By obtaining these three measurements consisting of heel-to-toe length, heel-to-ball length, and width, you can confidently select the right shoe size. This ensures optimal comfort and support for your feet. If you have developed foot conditions as a result of wearing shoes that do not fit properly, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment options, in addition to guiding you on how to obtain your proper shoe size.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of one of our podiatrists from Piedmont Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Greenville, and Easley, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Preventing falls within the home is essential for maintaining safety and well-being, especially for older adults. The feet can be injured during a fall, and it is beneficial to remove obstacles in the household. Each room presents unique hazards that require attention to minimize the risk of accidents. In the bathroom, installing grab bars and non-slip mats can prevent slips and falls on wet surfaces. In the kitchen, keeping floors clean and dry and storing frequently used items within easy reach can reduce the likelihood of accidents while cooking or reaching for items. It is important for the bedrooms to have adequate lighting, and removing clutter from pathways can prevent tripping hazards, particularly during nighttime visits to the bathroom. Living areas benefit from having secure rugs or carpeting and maintaining clear pathways to prevent tripping over furniture or cords. If you have foot pain from a fall that has happened, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can offer you appropriate treatment options, in addition to discussing fall prevention methods that can protect the feet.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Piedmont Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Greenville, and Easley, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.