Sharp heel pain with the first steps out of bed is a familiar sign of plantar fasciitis. This condition affects the plantar fascia, a strong band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. It connects the heel to the toes and supports the arch. Repeated strain irritates this tissue and contributes to small areas of damage, especially near its attachment to the heel bone. Pain usually develops beneath the heel, although discomfort sometimes extends into the arch. Symptoms frequently ease after a few minutes of movement, then return after prolonged standing or a busy day on the feet.

Several factors place extra stress on the plantar fascia. A sudden increase in running distance or long hours of standing puts repeated pressure on the heel. Tight calf muscles also increase tension through the bottom of the foot. Flat feet and high arches affect how the foot handles weight, while excess body weight adds to the load. Wearing shoes that lack proper support contributes to discomfort in some patients. Plantar fasciitis affects active people as well as those with less demanding routines. Persistent pain sometimes changes the way a person walks, placing additional strain on nearby joints and muscles.

A podiatrist evaluates heel pain by asking when symptoms began and which activities aggravate them. The examination includes checking tender areas, assessing ankle flexibility, and observing foot movement while walking. These findings help identify strain on the plantar fascia and distinguish it from other causes of heel pain. A stress fracture, for example, involves a small crack in the heel bone and requires a different treatment approach. Imaging tests are not always necessary, but a podiatrist orders tests when the diagnosis remains uncertain. Heel spurs sometimes appear on X-rays, yet their presence does not necessarily explain the pain or determine the treatment.

Treatment focuses on reducing strain and addressing the factors surrounding symptoms. A podiatrist prescribes custom orthotics when appropriate to improve support and redistribute pressure. Professional taping provides another way to support the arch. For selected patients, a prescribed night splint gently holds the foot in a position that limits tissue tightening. More persistent symptoms sometimes warrant a walking boot, an exercise plan, or other treatment to address the problem. Surgery is reserved for cases that do not improve with prolonged nonsurgical care. If you have symptoms of plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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 doctors from Andrea Hyperbaric Wound Care & Health 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 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 Astoria, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Achilles tendinitis develops when the tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel becomes irritated. This tendon helps lift the heel when walking, running, and climbing stairs. Pain can occur where the tendon attaches to the heel bone or higher along the back of the ankle. Symptoms include morning stiffness, tenderness, and swelling. Pain can worsen after activity or when pushing off the foot. A sudden increase in exercise, repeated hill running, or tight calf muscles placing extra strain on the tendon. Wearing shoes that lack proper support can also contribute to the problem.

A podiatrist can determine whether the pain comes from Achilles tendinitis or another foot or ankle problem. An examination includes checking the painful area, ankle motion, and tendon strength. The podiatrist may also watch how the patient stands and walks. X-rays can reveal bone changes near the heel, while ultrasound or MRI scans can show damage within the tendon. Accurate diagnosis matters because similar symptoms can result from bursitis, a partial tendon tear, or a heel-bone prominence. Severe pain, sudden weakness, or a popping sensation requires prompt evaluation because these signs can point to a tendon rupture.

Treatment focuses on reducing strain, controlling irritation, and helping the tendon work safely again. A podiatrist may recommend temporary activity changes, heel lifts, or custom orthotics. Supportive shoes can also reduce tension on the painful area. In some cases, a walking boot may protect the tendon while irritation settles. The podiatrist can monitor healing and guide a gradual return to activity. Persistent cases may benefit from treatments that stimulate tissue repair. Surgery is generally reserved for tendon damage or pain that does not improve with other care. Early evaluation can keep the problem from becoming harder to manage and can lower the risk of further tendon injury. If you have symptoms of Achilles tendinitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our doctors of Andrea Hyperbaric Wound Care & Health Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that develops when uric acid builds up in the body and forms sharp crystals inside a joint. These crystals can trigger sudden and intense inflammation. Gout most often affects the big toe, although it can also develop in other joints. A gout attack may begin quickly and cause severe pain. The affected area can become swollen, red, and extremely tender to touch.

Several factors can increase the risk of developing gout. Genetics can play a role, while certain health conditions may make high uric acid levels more likely. Eating foods high in purines can also contribute because the body breaks purines down into uric acid. Dehydration, excess alcohol, and some medications may increase risk. Men are generally more likely to develop gout earlier in life, while the risk increases for women after menopause.

The big toe is a common location because the joint is relatively cool and exposed to repeated pressure. Uric acid crystals form more easily in cooler areas, making this joint vulnerable. Walking and wearing shoes can also make an inflamed big toe especially painful. During an attack, symptoms include sudden throbbing pain, swelling, and tenderness. Without appropriate management, repeated attacks damage the joint over time.

A podiatrist examines your foot and discusses your symptoms, medical history, and possible triggers. Testing may be recommended to help confirm gout and rule out other causes of joint pain. Treatment options include measures to reduce inflammation and protect the painful joint during an attack. A podiatrist may also recommend footwear changes and strategies that support long-term foot health. If you have gout symptoms, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this painful condition. 

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our doctors from Andrea Hyperbaric Wound Care & Health Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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

Toe walking means a child walks on their tiptoes without letting their heels touch the ground. It can happen some, most, or all of the time. Toe walking can be part of normal development, and many children stop doing it between ages two and seven. However, continued toe walking deserves attention, especially when it affects balance, comfort, or the way a child moves. When there is no clear medical cause, it is called idiopathic toe walking. In a small number of children, toe walking can be linked to conditions that affect the brain, nerves, or muscles. These include cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, and autism spectrum disorder. A podiatrist can assess your child’s feet, legs, and walking pattern. They can also check muscle strength and flexibility to determine whether further evaluation is needed.

Frequent toe walking can be associated with tight calf muscles, which connect with the heel. Tight calves can make it harder for a child to place the heels flat on the ground when standing or walking. A podiatrist can help identify whether tight muscles, foot structure, or another concern is contributing to toe walking. This evaluation also helps determine whether the child’s walking pattern is changing or causing problems with everyday activities. Treatment options may include regular monitoring and supportive footwear.

Parents should seek professional advice when toe walking is apparent mainly on one side or if it begins suddenly after a child previously walked with their heels down. An exam also may be needed if the heels are prevented from touching the ground while standing. Attention is important when a child has stiff legs, unusual movements, or pain. A podiatrist can monitor changes in walking and recommend treatment when necessary. If your child exhibits toe walking on a regular basis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact one of our doctors of Andrea Hyperbaric Wound Care & Health Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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