Items filtered by date: May 2023

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that can cause debilitating pain. It may compromise the ability to complete daily activities and medical treatment is eventually sought. It is a condition that affects the plantar fascia, which is defined as a band of tissue on the sole of the foot that connects the heels to the toes. An injury can cause the plantar fascia to become irritated or torn, which may happen from running on hard or uneven surfaces. It may also occur from gradual or sudden weight gain, in addition to wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. Some people have a tight Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel. This may result in severe heel pain, which can be a symptom of plantar fasciitis. Patients who have developed this condition may notice the pain is worse in the morning upon arising and the affected foot may be swollen and red. If you are afflicted with plantar fasciitis, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can offer you effective treatment options.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists  from Advantage Foot and Ankle 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 the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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

Anyone who has walked a long distance in brand new shoes has probably encountered a blister or two. Blisters on the feet often form when shoes are too tight, socks are too thin, and feet are too moist. The main cause of a blister is friction. The skin on the feet can be irritated by rubbing against the inside of a shoe. This causes a reaction from the body to protect itself. The top layer of skin separates from the rest and allows serum to collect underneath, forming a cushion between the layers. Pain from a blister can be prevented by implementing a few easy measures. Changing the shoes to a wider toe box will allow the toes to move freely. If you plan to take a long walk or to exercise, try wearing socks with a double layer that helps provide ample cushioning. Antiperspirant foot sprays can help to keep excessive moisture from building up inside the shoes. Runners who are prone to developing blisters may wish to try using low friction insoles in their shoes. Finally, choose footwear which is made of more flexible materials to reduce friction. If you have developed a blister that will not heal, or if a blister has become infected, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and treatment options. 

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of Advantage Foot and Ankle Center . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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