Ignoring foot pain can have serious consequences for your balance, mobility, and overall foot health. Persistent pain often signals an underlying issue that, left untreated, may worsen over time. Conditions like stress fractures, heel pain, and psoriatic arthritis are common sources of foot pain and can severely impair foot function if not addressed. Even minor discomfort can cause changes in your gait, leading to strain in other areas of the body, like the knees, hips, and back. Determining the cause of foot pain is essential for effective treatment, as each condition requires a different approach. Addressing foot pain early can help you maintain balance, improve mobility, and reduce the risk of chronic issues, keeping you active and pain-free. If you suffer from foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Pedram Aslmand, DPM from Advanced Foot and Ankle Center. Our podiatrist 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)
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 offices located in Long Beach, CA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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.
Heel fat pad syndrome, also known as fat pad atrophy, occurs when the natural cushioning under the heel shrinks or loses its elasticity. It leads to reduced shock absorption and increased heel pain. The degeneration of the heel fat pad often results from prolonged pressure or repetitive high-impact activities, such as running or jumping. Heel fat pad atrophy is commonly mistaken for plantar fasciitis, though each condition has distinct causes and treatments. Age, obesity, and certain medical conditions can increase the risk, as these factors contribute to fat pad thinning and weakened tissue integrity. Biomechanical issues, like improper arch alignment or gait imbalance, also can place undue strain on the heel pad. A podiatrist can conduct a thorough exam, which may include digital imaging to confirm the diagnosis and evaluate the extent of fat pad thinning. Treatment often includes custom orthotics and tailored exercises to strengthen foot mechanics and redistribute pressure on the heel. If you have constant or recurring heel pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.
Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Pedram Aslmand, DPM of Advanced Foot and Ankle Center. Our podiatrist 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 offices located in Long Beach, CA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
While most people associate gout with the big toe, it can also affect the ankle joint. Gout causes intense pain, swelling, and stiffness due to the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joint. When uric acid levels in the blood rise, sharp crystals may form in the ankle, which can make walking and basic activities challenging. Risk factors for gout include consuming foods high in purines, such as red meat, organ meats, and certain seafood, as well as sugary drinks and alcohol, which can elevate uric acid levels. Ankle gout may flare up unpredictably, causing severe discomfort that can last for days or even weeks. A podiatrist can help to manage gout through specific measures. Certain medications can be prescribed that reduce inflammation and changes to diet and lifestyle choices may also be suggested. If not properly managed, gout-related inflammation can lead to lasting damage to the ankle joint. If your ankle is in severe pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.
Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Pedram Aslmand, DPM from Advanced Foot and Ankle Center. Our podiatrist will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.
Symptoms
Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility
Risk Factors
Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout
Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Long Beach, CA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
