Keep Your Feet Healthy So You Can Stay Active

Have your feet inspected by a professional before starting a new sport or physical activity. Taking charge of your foot health will keep you in good physical condition and can help you avoid a potential injury, such as a fracture or sprained ankle.

Prevent injuries and see a foot specialist.

Morning Heel Pain That Will Not Fade

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that supports the arch of the foot, becomes irritated or inflamed. Many patients notice sharp pain with their first steps in the morning or after sitting for long periods. The heel may feel tender, tight, or slightly swollen, and discomfort often improves after walking a bit but returns later in the day. Causes include overuse, flat feet, high arches, tight calf muscles, or shoes that lack support. A podiatrist begins with a careful examination and may use imaging to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes of heel pain. Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation and supporting the foot. Options may include custom orthotics, supportive footwear, and targeted exercises to stretch and strengthen the plantar fascia and surrounding muscles. Early care can prevent the condition from becoming chronic and help patients return to comfortable walking. If you have ongoing heel pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

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 Ahmed Shoukry, DPM from The Foot Clinic. Our doctor 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 our office located in Euless, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

 

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Types and Grades of Ankle Sprains

An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments, which are strong bands that connect bones, are stretched or torn after the ankle twists beyond its normal range. There are three main types of ankle sprains based on how the injury happens. The most common is an inversion sprain, where the foot rolls inward and stresses the outer ligaments. An eversion sprain occurs when the foot turns outward, affecting the inner ligaments. A high ankle sprain involves the ligaments above the ankle that connect the lower leg bones. Sprains are also graded by severity. A Grade 1 sprain involves mild stretching with slight pain and swelling. A Grade 2 sprain includes a partial tear, leading to more swelling, bruising, and limited movement. A Grade 3 sprain is a complete tear, often causing severe pain and instability. A podiatrist can assess the injury, order imaging, and guide proper treatment. If you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you make an immediate appointment with a podiatrist for help.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Ahmed Shoukry, DPM from The Foot Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

  • Mild to moderate bruising
  • Limited mobility
  • Swelling
  • Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

  • Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
  • Stretching before exercises and sports
  • Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Euless, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Ankle Sprains
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