October 2022

There are many people worldwide who have heel pain. It can happen for a variety of reasons, and prompt medical treatment may bring relief. A heel spur is known to be painful, and occurs as a result of calcium deposits that build up on the bottom of the heel. In severe cases, this is often removed surgically. Plantar fasciitis is a common heel injury and happens when the band of tissue that is on the sole of the foot becomes inflamed. This is known as the plantar fascia, and it connects the heel to the toes. Plantar fasciitis can happen from wearing shoes that do not have adequate support, and from standing on hard surfaces for most of the day. Heel pain may also happen from a foot injury, such as landing awkwardly on the heel. Relief may be felt when the affected foot is elevated, and this may relieve a portion of the swelling that can accompany heel pain. Many patients find it helpful to perform specific heel stretches, including standing on a step, and lowering one heel at a time until a gentle stretch is felt. Heel pain is effectively treated by a podiatrist, and it is strongly advised that you contact this type of doctor who can diagnose the cause, and offer you the correct treatment techniques.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Kaveh Panahi, DPM of Acacia Foot and Ankle Surgeons. 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 Peoria, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Every pregnant woman knows that bringing a child to term can significantly affect one’s feet. For example, the feet may exhibit increased swelling or pain. Additionally, the woman’s feet may also have increased foot odor. Foot odor, also known as bromodosis, can affect pregnant women because a woman’s feet can increase in size, causing her shoes to fit tightly, which reduces the air flow to the feet. There are a number of things that a pregnant woman might consider doing to mitigate increased foot odor. For example, one might try wearing a kind of moisture-wicking sock. The point of this is to reduce the extent to which moisture accumulates on the feet, as this can also lead to odor. If you are planning on becoming pregnant, it might be a good idea to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to ensure that you are doing everything you can to keep your feet in good shape.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Kaveh Panahi, DPM from Acacia Foot and Ankle Surgeons. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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

Aging is a risk factor for many diseases. Seniors take more medications, have weaker immune systems, and are more apt to suffer from pre-existing medical conditions, as well as mobility issues. While elderly nail fungus is not generally severe, it can be uncomfortable, and if left untreated, complications such as permanent nail damage or more serious infections can develop. Nail infections are caused by fungal organisms called fungi. These fungi can feed on keratin, present in the nails, hair, and skin. Such infections can also be caused by yeast and mold spores. The fungi get into the skin and nails from direct contact with infected materials, whether from animals, people, or clothes. Elderly nails are more likely to become brittle and have more cracks, and this makes it easier for the organisms to get inside and spread. Toenail fungus is more common than fingernail fungus. Symptoms typically include thick, discolored, brittle and damaged nails, with jagged edges and possibly a bad odor. Pain may also be present. Toenail fungus may be more prevalent in those with diabetes, recurring skin conditions, and circulation problems as these hinder the body’s ability to fight infection. If you are elderly or taking care of someone who has toenail fungus is a concern, contact a podiatrist who can help you with all foot and ankle-related conditions.

For more information about treatment, contact Kaveh Panahi, DPM of Acacia Foot and Ankle Surgeons. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

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

Sometimes, athletes who engage in a particular sport can increase their likelihood of developing a specific kind of injury. Different sports make certain injuries more likely than others due to the nature of the the activities that the athletes engage in. For example, individuals who play golf may be particularly susceptible to aggravating heel pain, or plantar fasciitis, because of the significant amount of walking around the golf course they do. Additionally, golfers can sometimes put excessive strain on the ball of their feet. This is because when swinging the golf club, the ball of the foot pivots to help the club complete the full swing. This strain on the ball of the foot can increase the chances of developing a condition called sesamoiditis, which is the inflammation of tendons around the sesamoid bones underneath the joint of the big toe. If you are a golfer and are experiencing any of these painful foot conditions, it is wise to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Kaveh Panahi, DPM of Acacia Foot and Ankle Surgeons. 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 Peoria, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.