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Reasons Why Plantar Fasciitis Can Develop

Tuesday, 27 December 2022

People who are afflicted with plantar fasciitis often have extreme heel pain. It is defined as a condition that affects the plantar fascia, which is the band of tissue that is found on the sole of the foot. Its function is to connect the heel to the toes and may become inflamed for various reasons. These can include standing on hard surfaces for the majority of the day or wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. Many patients have found mild relief when specific stretches are performed, in addition to wearing shoes that have adequate heel and arch support. Additionally, obesity may contribute to getting plantar fasciitis, and it is beneficial to lose weight which can help to reduce the pressure on the heels. If you have heel pain, please consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can determine if the cause is plantar fasciitis, and treat it accordingly.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Blake Zobell from Utah. 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 one of our offices located in Richfield and Ephraim, Utah . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

How Dangerous Is It to Wear High Heels?

Tuesday, 20 December 2022

Wearing high heels can cause various foot issues in women. Corns, Morton’s neuroma, and bunions are common conditions that can happen from frequently wearing high heels, and this can be a result of not having enough room for the toes to move freely in. Some women may develop toenail fungus from the constant pressure the nails endure as they are forced to lie against the front of the shoe. Additionally, the Achilles tendon may become shorter from the angle of the shoe, which can lead to developing plantar fasciitis or heel spurs. People who wear high heels may have an increased risk of falling and incurring an ankle injury from losing their balance. An alternative for wearing these types of stylish shoes may be to choose shoes that are wider in the toe area, and have a lower heel. If you have concerns about the possible foot conditions that can develop from wearing high heels, please contact a podiatrist who can answer any questions you may have.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Blake Zobell from Utah. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal. Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

Ankle Joints
Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
Balls of the Feet
Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain. The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

Corns
Calluses
Hammertoe
Bunions
Morton’s Neuroma
Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems. Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet. Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising. If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work. Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available.

Running and Flat Feet

Wednesday, 14 December 2022

People who have flat feet are often aware of how it can affect their running routine. The absence of an arch often does not absorb the shock of each step, and it may ultimately increase the risk of incurring an injury. One of the hazards of running with flat feet is overpronation, which is defined as the foot and arch rolling inward while landing. Patients who like to run often have their gait, or walking style analyzed, in addition to possibly wearing custom-made orthotics. It helps to know if you have flexible or rigid flat feet, and this can determine how the foot strikes the ground. Choosing stability or motion control running shoes may help to control overpronation by providing adequate support to the middle of the foot. If you have flat feet and enjoy running, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can give you successful tips on how to possibly reduce the risk of injury while running.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Blake Zobell from Utah. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.

Symptoms

Pain around the heel or arch area
Trouble standing on the tip toe
Swelling around the inside of the ankle
Flat look to one or both feet
Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.

Plantar Warts Can Be Treated!

Tuesday, 13 December 2022

Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!

Pros and Cons of Wearing Flip-Flops

Tuesday, 06 December 2022

There are many differences of opinion concerning flip-flops and the feet. Despite the ease and choice of several designs and colors to choose from, wearing these types of shoes may have detrimental effects on the feet. Flip-flops are made of rubber material, with a thin piece separating the big toe from the other toes. They generally have little or no arch support, and the toes work harder than usual to keep the shoe on the foot. It is beneficial to wear flip-flops for a limited time, such as going to the beach or pool, followed by wearing a more supportive shoe at the end of the day. There are flip-flops that are made of sturdier materials, in addition to having a strap on the back. This may be helpful in preventing cracked heels from developing. Flip-flops can be fun to wear, and if you desire to do so, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can guide you toward the best type of this shoe to purchase.

Flip-flops can cause a lot of problems for your feet. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Blake Zobell from Utah. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

Flip-flops have managed to become a summer essential for a lot of people. While the shoes may be stylish and easy to slip on and off, they can be dangerous to those who wear them too often. These shoes might protect you from fungal infections such as athlete’s foot, but they can also give you foot pain and sprained ankles if you trip while wearing them.

When Are They Okay to Wear?

Flip-flops should only be worn for very short periods of time. They can help protect your feet in places that are crawling with fungi, such as gym locker rooms. Athlete’s foot and plantar warts are two common fungi that flip-flops may help protect your feet against.

Why Are They Bad for My Feet?

These shoes do not offer any arch support, so they are not ideal for everyday use. They also do not provide shock absorption or heel cushioning which can be problematic for your feet. Additionally, you may suffer from glass cuts, puncture wounds, and stubbed toes since they offer little protection for your feet.

More Reasons Why They Are Bad for Your Feet

They Slow You Down
May Cause Blisters and Calluses
Expose Your Feet to Bacteria

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