February 2021

Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.

Plantar fasciitis is a very common foot problem, especially among runners. It occurs when the plantar fascia, the ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bone to the toes, becomes inflamed due to repeated injury or overuse. You may be at an increased risk for developing plantar fasciitis if you are a highly active runner, stand for prolonged periods of times, have tight calves or a decreased range of motion in your ankles, have flat or high arched feet, or are obese. Fortunately, there are many treatments for plantar fasciitis, including resting the foot, performing foot stretches, and modifying your activities or footwear. If you believe that you are at risk for developing plantar fasciitis, please consult with a podiatrist.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact The podiatrists  from Grand Haven Foot & Ankle. 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 Grand Haven, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Elderly people may experience foot conditions as a result of standing and walking throughout their lifetime. Foot problems may occur due to a loss of fat in the foot. The fat pad in the foot generally provides adequate padding, and is responsible for shock absorption. Additionally, fractures may be more likely in elderly people, and their balance may be affected as the aging process occurs. A common condition among seniors is dry skin, and this can be remedied by applying a good moisturizer as part of the bedtime routine. Older people may see changes in their toenails, where they gradually become brittle, yellowed, and thicker. If you would like additional information about how to provide proper care for your elderly relative’s feet, please consult with a podiatrist.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact The podiatrists from Grand Haven Foot & Ankle. Our doctors 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 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

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 our office located in Grand Haven, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Heel pain can be debilitating and can form due to a variety of reasons. The most common cause of heel pain occurs when the band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes, known as the plantar fascia, becomes inflamed causing plantar fasciitis. When the Achilles tendon becomes inflamed Achilles tendonitis may occur, and this can lead to heel pain too. Heel pain can also be caused by a natural wearing of the fat pad which is connected to the heel, as well as stress fractures, bursitis, or a variety of diseases such as arthritis and gout. If you are suffering from heel pain it is highly recommended that you visit a podiatrist who can determine what the cause of your pain is. A podiatrist will be able to provide a proper treatment plan for your heel pain as well.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact The podiatrists of Grand Haven Foot & Ankle. Our doctors 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 Grand Haven, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Pain in the sesamoid bones, which are located beneath the metatarsal bone under the big toe, is known as sesamoiditis. Sesamoiditis usually comes on gradually and is indicated by a mild ache that increases to an intense throbbing. Increasing activity that puts pressure on the ball of the foot often leads to this condition. Having a bony foot or high arches can put more pressure on the sesamoid bones, which can lead to inflammation. Treatment options for sesamoiditis are noninvasive. Mild cases usually require rest and possibly a shoe pad that reduces pressure on the bones. More severe cases may require the big toe to be immobilized in order to allow for healing. Ice and anti-inflammatories may be helpful in decreasing inflammation. If you are struggling with pain in your sesamoid bones, it is important to consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact The podiatrists of Grand Haven Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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