A New Year Shouldn’t Start With Pain The beginning of a new year often comes with fresh goals—being more active, feeling healthier, and getting back to routines you enjoy. But heel pain can quickly get in the way. When every step hurts, even small tasks can feel frustrating. Heel pain is one of the most common foot issues treated by podiatrists. Many people try to ignore it or hope it will go away on its own, but without proper care, heel pain often lingers or gets worse over time. Why Heel Pain Happens Heel pain can develop for several reasons, and it often builds gradually. One of the most common causes is plantar fasciitis, which occurs when the tissue supporting the arch of the foot becomes inflamed. Other causes may include strain on the Achilles tendon, wearing shoes without proper support, or spending long hours on your feet. Pain is often most noticeable in the morning or after long periods of rest. While it may ease as you move around, it tends to return and can worsen without treatment. Common Conditions Linked to Heel Pain While heel pain feels similar for many people, the underlying cause can vary. Some of the most common conditions include: Plantar fasciitis Heel spurs Achilles tendon irritation Overuse or repetitive strain injuries Identifying the exact cause is key to getting the right treatment and long-term relief. Why Early Treatment Matters Ignoring heel pain can lead to changes in the way you walk. Over time, this can place added stress on your ankles, knees, hips, and lower back. What starts as foot pain can turn into discomfort throughout your body. Seeing a podiatrist early can help prevent these issues and reduce recovery time. Most heel pain can be treated without surgery when addressed promptly. How a Podiatrist Can Help A podiatrist specializes in foot and ankle care and can create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Treatment may include stretching exercises, custom orthotics, footwear guidance, or other therapies designed to reduce pain and inflammation. With the right approach, many patients begin to feel relief and regain mobility. Step Into the New Year With Confidence Heel pain does not have to define your year. With proper care and treatment, you can move more comfortably and get back to doing the things you enjoy. If heel pain is holding you back, schedule a visit with a podiatrist and take the first step toward a healthier, pain-free new year.
Your feet are the foundation of your entire body — when they’re not properly supported, it can lead to pain not just in your feet, but in your ankles, knees, hips, and back, too. That’s where custom orthotics come in! What Are Custom Orthotics? Custom orthotics are medical-grade shoe inserts that are specifically designed for your unique feet, gait, and needs. Unlike over-the-counter insoles, custom orthotics are crafted based on a detailed assessment by your podiatrist, ensuring the perfect fit and support for your lifestyle. Who Can Benefit from Custom Orthotics? Custom orthotics can help people with: ✅ Flat feet or high arches ✅ Plantar fasciitis or heel pain ✅ Bunions or hammertoes ✅ Arthritis ✅ Sports injuries ✅ Foot, ankle, knee, hip, or lower back pain caused by poor alignment How Do They Work? Custom orthotics work by redistributing pressure and correcting misalignments, which helps your feet function properly and comfortably. They can also help prevent future problems by providing the support you need with every step. Ready to Feel the Difference? If you’re experiencing foot or lower body pain, custom orthotics may be the solution you’ve been looking for. Schedule an appointment today and let our foot specialists help you step into lasting comfort and support!
Your feet are the foundation of your body, supporting you with every step you take. We understand that maintaining foot health is crucial to your overall well-being and mobility. In honor of April being National Foot Health Awareness Month, this blog explores why foot health should never be overlooked and provides tips for keeping your feet healthy. Why Foot Health Matters The human foot is a complex structure of 26 bones, 33 joints, and over 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments. This intricate design allows for movements such as walking, running, and jumping. However, it also means that many things can go wrong if not cared for properly. Poor foot health can lead to a range of issues from simple aches and pains to more severe conditions like plantar fasciitis or diabetic neuropathy. Moreover, problems in your feet can affect other parts of your body, including your knees, hips, and back. Tips for Maintaining Healthy Feet Regular Check-ups: Just like regular dentist visits, regular check-ups with a podiatrist, especially during National Foot Health Awareness Month, can help catch foot problems before they become serious. Proper Footwear: Wear shoes that fit well and provide good support. Different activities require different types of shoes – what you wear for running is not suitable for a day at work. Foot Hygiene: Wash your feet daily, dry them thoroughly to prevent infections, and change socks daily. Stay Active: Regular exercise helps keep your feet and body healthy. Remember to stretch your feet and ankles before and after workouts. Manage Your Weight: Extra weight puts additional pressure on your feet, increasing the risk of foot disorders. Common Foot Conditions and Treatments Plantar Fasciitis: Often felt as heel pain, treated with exercises, proper footwear, and sometimes orthotics. Bunions: Misaligned big toe joints that can become swollen and tender. Treatment options include wearing comfortable shoes, pads, and in severe cases, surgery. Diabetic Foot Care: People with diabetes need to take extra care of their feet as poor blood circulation and nerve damage can lead to serious foot problems. We believe in a proactive approach to foot health. Whether you're an athlete, a busy professional, or enjoying retirement, taking good care of your feet is a step toward a healthier life. Celebrate National Foot Health Awareness Month with us and schedule an appointment today to learn how you can better care for your feet and enhance your overall wellness.