Webster (281) 316-3338
Diplomat, American Board of Podiatric Surgery Fellow, American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeon
Alvin (281) 331-3525
Webster (281) 316-3338
Diplomat, American Board of Podiatric Surgery Fellow, American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeon
Alvin (281) 331-3525
Plantar fasciitis, one of the most common causes of heel pain, is a condition that many people suffer from. Among those who do are runners and athletes, those who are overweight, and people who have to stand for extended periods of time. While not life-threatening, it can cause substantial pain and discomfort to those who experience it. Thankfully, there are some things that you can do to help alleviate the pain. First, rest your feet and avoid overexerting them in any strenuous activities that may have led to the heel pain. Second, ice your feet and use anti-inflammatory medications prescribed or recommended by a podiatrist. Some podiatrists may suggest some form of relatively light physical therapy to strengthen the feet, however this is not always recommended. Maintaining a healthy weight can also reduce the stress on the feet that could have led to heel pain. Finally, be sure to wear comfortable shoes that have good cushioning and support.
Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Dr. Douglas Webb of Texas. 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?
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 one of our offices located in Alvin and Webster, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Heel Pain
Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek the professional help of your podiatrist and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.
Taking good care of your feet becomes more important as you get older. Age tends to exacerbate foot issues, with many people over the age of 65 reportedly suffering from foot pain. Another common issue among the elderly is diabetes. Diabetes causes neuropathy, or nerve loss, in the lower body, especially in the feet. Diabetics suffer from poor blood circulation in the legs and feet as well. This means that if a diabetic sustains a wound, they may not realize it due to loss of sensation, and the wound may not heal properly. In severe cases, amputation may be necessary if the infection significantly worsens. Because of this, elderly diabetics need to take extra care of their feet, though most elderly people will also benefit from practicing good foot health. Good foot health strategies include daily foot inspections for any abnormalities, washing and drying the feet, keeping one's diabetes in check, and wearing quality socks and footwear that will protect the feet and provide ample foot support. Finally, performing a check-up with a podiatrist yearly is also recommended.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Douglas Webb from Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
The Elderly and Their Feet
As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.
Common Conditions
Susceptible Infections
Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Alvin and Webster, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Diabetes presents a number of problems for those who have it. This is especially true for children, who are more likely to sustain a foot injury from playing. Due to decreased sensitivity, a child may not realize they have a wound and not tell their parent. Coupled with poor blood circulation, the wound may not heal and may become infected; this could be very dangerous and, in extreme cases, potentially result in amputation. Both parents and children should know what to look for and how to care for diabetic feet. This includes doing daily foot inspections for wounds or any abnormal signs. Diabetic children should wash their feet with warm water and make sure to dry them properly. Make sure to avoid extremely hot and cold environments, and check the water temperature first before washing. Children should also avoid walking barefoot. Be sure to inspect shoes for any objects inside and to ensure the interior is smooth. Finally, seeing a podiatrist for an examination several times a year is highly recommended.
Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Dr. Douglas Webb of Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...
Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.
Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.
Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.
As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’.
As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.
Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.
Be watchful for any pain or injury.
Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.
Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Alvin and Webster, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!
