Plantar fasciitis causes heel pain that develops when the plantar fascia becomes irritated. This strong band of tissue runs along the bottom of the foot and supports the arch. Symptoms often include sharp pain near the heel, especially during the first steps after waking. Pain may also appear after sitting or standing for a long time. Some people notice discomfort after exercise or prolonged walking.

Several factors can increase the risk of plantar fasciitis. Standing for long periods can place repeated stress on the plantar fascia. Running and other high-impact activities may also increase strain. Flat feet, high arches, and tight calf muscles can change how pressure moves through the foot. Being overweight may add extra stress as well. Wearing shoes that lack proper support can make symptoms more noticeable and may slow recovery.

Gentle stretching can provide relief by reducing tension through the calf and plantar fascia. A podiatrist may recommend calf stretches and stretches based on the symptoms. Rolling the foot over a frozen water bottle may also help soothe discomfort. During an evaluation, the podiatrist checks your walking pattern, foot structure, and range of motion. Treatment may include choosing supportive footwear, being fitted for custom orthotics, or temporary activity changes. Imaging tests may be ordered when another condition needs to be ruled out.

The goal of treatment is to reduce pain while allowing irritated tissue to heal. Following a podiatrist's recommendations can help prevent symptoms from becoming persistent. Seek evaluation if heel pain continues, returns frequently, or interferes with normal activities. Early care can make daily movement more comfortable and help you return to activities with confidence. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists from Podiatry Associates of Victoria. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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

High heels can change how weight is distributed across the feet and affect the way a person stands and walks. When the heel is raised, more body weight shifts toward the front of the foot. This places added pressure on the ball of the foot and nearby joints, which can contribute to pain and stiffness. High heels can also affect balance, posture, and overall foot function. The higher the heel, the more unstable the foot may become, increasing the risk of ankle sprains and other injuries.

Regularly wearing high heels may also affect the toes, heels, and supporting tissues. Narrow or pointed shoes can force the toes into an unnatural position and may contribute to the formation of hammertoes or bunions. High heels also keep the Achilles tendon in a shortened position. This may cause the tendon to become stiff and can contribute to Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis. Pressure and rubbing around the back of the heel may lead to a bony enlargement known as Haglund’s deformity. Because high heels alter normal walking mechanics, their effects can extend beyond the feet and place additional stress on other parts of the body.

A podiatrist can evaluate foot pain related to high-heeled shoes and identify the structures that may be affected. An examination can help determine whether symptoms are connected to joint pressure, tendon problems, or changes in toe alignment. A podiatrist can also assess walking patterns and determine whether an injury or developing foot deformity requires treatment. Addressing persistent symptoms may help reduce the risk of long-term pain and additional foot problems. Professional care is especially important when discomfort begins interfering with walking, work, or other daily activities. If wearing high heels is causing ongoing foot or ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Podiatry Associates of Victoria. Our doctors 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. 

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

Falls can cause serious injuries and reduce a person’s confidence while standing or walking. Older adults face a greater risk, but many factors can increase the chance of falling. Muscle weakness, poor balance, and problems with walking can make it harder to stay steady. Foot pain can also change the way a person walks and increase instability. Falls are not an unavoidable part of aging. Identifying personal risk factors is an important part of preventing falls and protecting long-term mobility.

Foot health plays an important role in safe movement. Painful foot conditions can affect balance and make each step less secure. Reduced sensation in the feet can also make it harder to notice changes in the ground. Wearing shoes that lack proper support or do not fit correctly can add to instability. Certain medications, poor vision, and long-term health conditions can also increase fall risk. A previous fall is another important warning sign. When several risk factors are present, a person can have more difficulty moving safely and confidently.

A podiatrist can evaluate the feet and ankles to identify problems that could affect balance or walking. The evaluation can include foot structure, joint movement, and areas of pain. A podiatrist can also examine how a patient walks and determine whether foot problems are contributing to instability. Treatment can address painful conditions and other problems that interfere with safe movement. A podiatrist can also provide guidance about shoes that fit correctly and offer proper support. Addressing foot-related risk factors can help patients maintain mobility and reduce their chances of falling. If you have balance problems that may lead to an increased risk of falls, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and effective relief tips.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Podiatry Associates of Victoria. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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