September 2024

Plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel pain, often results from strain on the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that supports the foot's arch. Various risk factors can contribute to plantar fasciitis, including excessive foot pronation, where the foot rolls inward too much, or high arches that put extra stress on the fascia. Tightness in the Achilles tendon can limit ankle movement, which in turn increases strain on the plantar fascia. Weak foot muscles may also contribute to overstretching the plantar fascia. Physical activity levels, whether too much or too little, can also influence the development of plantar fasciitis. Prolonged standing, obesity, and training errors, such as sudden increases in exercise intensity, are additional risk factors. Addressing these issues early with a podiatrist can help prevent the condition from worsening. If you have persistent or worsening heel pain, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to determine whether plantar fasciitis is the problem.

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 Brian D. Jackson, DPM from Neuhaus Foot and Ankle. Our doctor 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 one of our offices located in Columbia and Pulaski, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout is a form of arthritis characterized by sudden, severe pain, redness, and swelling in the joints, most commonly affecting the big toe, a condition known as podagra. It occurs when high levels of uric acid in the blood form sharp crystals that accumulate in joints. Symptoms often include intense joint pain that typically occurs at night, lingering discomfort, inflammation, and limited range of motion. Causes of gout include a diet high in purines, found in red meat and seafood, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, and certain medical conditions like hypertension and kidney disease. Men, postmenopausal women, and people with a family history of gout are at higher risk. Gout attacks, or flare-ups, can recur if underlying causes are not addressed. Prevention strategies involve maintaining a healthy diet, staying hydrated, limiting alcohol intake, and managing body weight. If you suspect you have gout in your big toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis, treatment, and a long-term management plan to prevent joint damage and improve quality of life.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Brian D. Jackson, DPM from Neuhaus Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Columbia and Pulaski, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.