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Heel Pain and Cancer
Heel pain can be an annoyance for a variety of patients for many different reasons. For example, heel pain may be linked to a condition known as plantar fasciitis. Alternatively, heel pain could be caused by an individual’s obesity and the extent to which their excess weight is putting added pressure on the feet. However, heel pain might also be a side effect of certain cancer treatments. Sometimes, when an individual with cancer receives treatment, heel pain can result. The reason for this is that some treatments lead to a loss of bone density and even muscle wasting. As a result, conditions such as plantar fasciitis can become more likely and ultimately cause heel pain. If you are someone that is receiving cancer treatment and you have heel pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today.
Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Dr. Tupper of Coshocton Foot Health Center. 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 Coshocton, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Running on Uneven Surfaces
Runners, both professional and recreational, need to take particular care of the health of their feet. If a runner is not taking certain measures, they might be putting themselves at risk of developing a foot injury or condition from running. One of the measures that runners may consider taking is running on even surfaces. When an individual chooses to run on uneven surfaces, the unbalanced surface can create an off-center force in the runner’s feet. As a result, a runner may be more likely to develop certain foot conditions such as tendonitis, joint inflammation or a fracture of the foot. If you are someone that frequently engages in running or similar physical activities, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist. This foot specialist will be able to treat your foot conditions, and answer any questions you may have about running on uneven surfaces.
All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Tupper of Coshocton Foot Health Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
How to Prevent Running Injuries
There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.
More Tips for Preventing Injury
- Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
- Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
- “Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
- Cross-Training is Crucial
- Wear Proper Running Shoes
- Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause injury
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Coshocton, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Gout Pain Can Be Managed
Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.
My Foot Hurts
Foot pain is often ignored until it impacts everyday routines. Having chronic foot pain may cause unstable foot function, which can increase the chances of falling. Common reasons for foot pain can include obesity and wearing shoes that do not fit correctly for extended periods. A stress fracture can be a likely cause of foot pain and can cause difficulty in walking. Heel pain can come from plantar fasciitis, a heel spur, or an Achilles tendon injury. General foot pain may be indicative of psoriatic arthritis and can affect the toenails, heels, and soles of the feet. Additionally, gout is a form of arthritis that often targets the joints in the big toe. Gout occurs due to excess uric acid levels in the blood which may come from specific types of foods that are eaten. If you have foot pain for any reason, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat various types of foot pain.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Tupper from Coshocton Foot Health Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
- Bunions
- Hammertoes
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Bone Spurs
- Corns
- Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
- Ingrown Toenails
- Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
- Flat Feet
- Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
- And more
Diagnosis
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Coshocton, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Relief Methods for Sever’s Disease
Heel pain is a common symptom with Sever’s disease. It is a condition that affects children and young teenagers who engage in running and jumping activities, and it can be quite painful. Additionally, wearing shoes with studs may increase the chances of developing Sever’s disease. A growth spurt can cause the bones to grow faster than the surrounding muscles and tendons, and the Achilles tendon is often affected. This tendon connects the heel to the calf muscles and can become sore with existing heel pain. This condition can be properly diagnosed when symptoms and performance levels are noticed, and treatment can begin with temporarily stopping the activity that caused the pain. This is typically followed by performing stretches that can strengthen the affected heel. Mild relief may be found when cushioned heel pads are worn and the leg is frequently elevated, possibly helping to reduce existing swelling. Limping and standing on tip toes may indicate your active child has Sever’s disease, and if applicable, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can offer relief and treatment techniques.
Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Dr. Tupper from Coshocton Foot Health Center. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.
Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.
Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.
Symptoms
Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.
Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Coshocton, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
Older People and Achilles Tendonitis
Tendonitis is common among people who incur an Achilles tendon injury. Heel and calf pain often accompany this ailment, and it can be uncomfortable. The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscle to the heel and may become torn from an injury. These can include overuse injuries from running on hard surfaces or increasing speed and distance too quickly while running. People who have arthritis may be prone to Achilles tendonitis, and it can affect older and middle-aged patients more than younger adults. Common symptoms are immediate heel pain and difficulty pointing and flexing the foot. Additionally, the area may be warm and tender to the touch. A proper diagnosis is needed to rule out the possibility of a fracture. If you have endured an Achilles tendon injury, it is suggested that a podiatrist be consulted who can effectively help you manage this condition.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Tupper of Coshocton Foot Health Center. Our doctor 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 Coshocton, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Shockwave Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis
Many people seek help for pain from plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the band of tissue that runs beneath the foot from the toes to the heel. Some simple remedies for plantar fasciitis include rest, exercise, and medication. It has also been found that shockwave therapy can be effective in reducing pain and helping to heal the plantar fascia. This non-invasive treatment consists of applying penetrating waves of ultrasound energy into the inflamed area. The body responds by creating new blood vessels and stimulates nerve endings that can help to heal the area. While the treatment occurs without any surgery, it can be painful. Sometimes multiple treatments are required, depending on the severity of the plantar fasciitis. Results of shockwave therapy may vary, but most commonly the pain of plantar fasciitis subsides. Fortunately, there are many ways to treat symptoms of plantar fasciitis. Please consult a podiatrist for more information on the treatment options that are best for you.
Shockwave therapy is a treatment commonly used to treat various injuries and conditions, particularly plantar fasciitis in the feet. To learn more, consult with Dr. Tupper from Coshocton Foot Health Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy is a new treatment option designed to treat bone conditions such as tennis elbow, shoulder pain, and others. Shockwave therapy uses high intensity sound waves that are directed to the affected tissues of the body with pinpoint accuracy. The effects are very beneficial, leading to a production of collagen fibers, eliminating inflammation.
Who Benefits from Shockwave?
Shockwave is recommended for patients suffering from heel pain and associated problems. Heel pain is a common condition which can be caused by obesity, overexertion, and spending a substantial amount of time on hard floors with your feet exposed and unsupported.
Fast and Easy
The therapy is actually a simple process that can leave patients feeling better the very next day. Shockwave therapy is not as dramatic as it sounds. It enables more blood flow to effected areas, addressing the source of the problem and allowing treatment to last for a long time.
Treatment & Recovery Time
Shockwave treatment will enable your feet to recover quickly. This is especially important since surgery is not required. It is cost effective and does not require the use of anesthesia. This treatment is a better option to surgery, since it is proven safe.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Coshocton, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Possible Relief Methods for Plantar Fasciitis
Many athletes suffer from a foot condition that is known as plantar fasciitis. It is a common ailment that comes from the repetitive force while participating in running and jumping activities. It may also affect people who wear shoes that do not fit correctly, or who have an abnormal foot structure. Additionally, it may happen to people who stand on hard surfaces for most of the day, or increase speed and distance too quickly while running. Plantar fasciitis happens as a result of an inflammation of the plantar fascia, which is the band of tissue that is found on the sole of the foot. It connects the heel to the toes, and an injury or a tear to the plantar fascia may result in the development of this condition. Heel pain is a common symptom of plantar fasciitis, and it may be worse in the morning after arising. Relief may be found when weight is kept off of the affected foot, and is frequently elevated while resting. Some patients have found success when specific stretches are done, and this may help to accelerate healing. If you have heel pain, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat plantar fasciitis.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Tupper from Coshocton Foot Health Center. Our doctor 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 Coshocton, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Are Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?
Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.
Cracked Heels and the Winter
Cracked heels are not one of the most severe and health-threatening conditions that might affect the feet. However, it is nonetheless an unpleasant and unsightly condition that many individuals will be wise to try to avoid. Cracked heels occur when the skin on the back of the heel becomes tough and the skin creates fissures due to a lack of moisture. Interestingly, cracked heels have a notable relationship with seasonality and temperature. Specifically, when winter arrives and the temperature drops considerably, an individual may be more susceptible to developing cracked heels. This phenomenon can be explained by the fact that it is often dry in cold weather. As a result, this dryness can impact the heels of the feet, reducing existing moisture in the heels. Please contact a podiatrist today if you would like more information about this foot condition.
Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Tupper from Coshocton Foot Health Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Cracked Heels
Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.
How Do You Get Them?
Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.
Promote Healing
Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.
Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.
Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.
Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin.
Change in Diet
Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.
Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Coshocton, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
More...
Car Accidents and Broken Ankles
When an individual is involved in a car accident, usually any negative impact on the feet is not the first concern that might come to mind. However, being involved in a car accident when driving can lead to damaging effects on the feet that one ought to be aware of. For example, ankle injuries, and more specifically broken or fractured ankles are a common consequence of being involved in a car accident. Ankle fractures are defined as a condition of the foot when one or more bones around the ankle (i.e. the ankle joint) become broken. When only one bone is broken, this condition is not always as severe as when multiple bones are fractured. Ankle fractures are nothing to take lightly and if you have suffered an ankle fracture due to a car accident, it might be best to reach out to a podiatrist today to receive any treatment that is necessary to address the problem. Contact a podiatrist today to schedule an appointment.
Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Tupper from Coshocton Foot Health Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.
When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.
Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle
- Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
- Swelling around the area
- Bruising of the area
- Area appears to be deformed
If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Coshocton, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Sleeping and Ankle Sprains
When an individual sprains an ankle they may notice that the tissues or ligaments surrounding the ankle bones have become stretched or unnaturally torn. As a result, the ankle sprain might cause discomfort to the patient and they may demonstrate some kind of limitation in the degree of their ankle motion. An individual may notice that sleeping with an ankle that is sprained can be uncomfortable or difficult. There are several steps that one might consider taking when trying to sleep easier with a sprained ankle. The pain at night stemming from the sprained ankle largely depends on how you are caring for the ankle throughout the day. For example, resting, elevating, and possibly icing the ankle during the daytime may lead to decreased discomfort during the nighttime. Additionally, a person might consider elevating the foot to help mitigate the discomfort felt at night from an ankle sprain. If you are having trouble sleeping at night due to an ankle sprain, contact a podiatrist today.
Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Tupper from Coshocton Foot Health Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?
Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.
What Are the Symptoms?
- Mild to moderate bruising
- Limited mobility
- Swelling
- Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)
Preventing a Sprain
- Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
- Stretching before exercises and sports
- Knowing your limits
Treatment of a Sprain
Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity. Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.
If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Coshocton, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Swelling and Severs' Disease
Severs’ disease is a particular kind of affliction of the foot that primarily impacts children. This condition occurs when the child, typically going through a growth spurt and engaged in some kind of physical activity, experiences heel pain. The heel bone, in relation to the heel growth plate, can become aggravated, which is a sign of Severs' disease. Although pain in the heel is a defining symptom of Severs’ disease, swelling around the heel may also develop. If a child experiences swelling around the heel and this area is also red in color, this may actually indicate that another source of pain exists. For example, this can be a sign that a stress fracture or ankle sprain may be causing pain. If you have a child that is experiencing heel pain, contact a podiatrist today for more information.
Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Dr. Tupper from Coshocton Foot Health Center. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.
Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.
Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.
Symptoms
Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.
Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Coshocton, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?
If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!
