Surgery for plantar fasciitis is generally reserved for people who continue to experience heel pain despite months of non-surgical treatment. In rare cases where symptoms remain severe and interfere with walking or daily activities, a podiatrist may recommend a partial plantar fasciectomy. This procedure targets the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue running along the sole of the foot from the heel to the toes. When it becomes scarred or inflamed over time, pain can persist. During the surgery, a podiatrist removes the damaged portion of the fascia without cutting the entire band. The procedure may be done through a small incision or with an endoscope. Recovery includes wearing a cast or boot for several weeks, followed by a period of gradual strengthening. As with any surgery, there are risks such as nerve injury, infection, or continued symptoms. If you are experiencing persistent pain from plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to see if surgery is right for you.
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 APEX Foot & Ankle Center. 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 offices located in Fort Myers,Shellpoint,and Naples, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Flat feet occur when the arches of the feet are low or absent, causing the soles to make full contact with the ground. Diagnosis begins with a physical exam. A podiatrist will observe how you stand, walk, and bear weight. They may check the alignment of your ankles and ask you to rise onto your toes. If the arch does not appear when standing on tiptoe, it may suggest a more rigid form of flatfoot. Imaging tests such as X-rays or an MRI scan may be used to assess bone structure, joint alignment, or soft tissue involvement. Some people have flat feet without symptoms, while others may experience pain or fatigue in the feet, ankles, or legs. If you have foot discomfort or are unsure about changes in your foot shape, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and care plan.
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.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Myers,Shellpoint,and Naples, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, as the top of the toe moves toward the lesser toes. This causes the joint to stick out and often leads to discomfort. Bunions develop over time due to genetics, wearing tight or narrow shoes, arthritis, or abnormal foot mechanics. Symptoms include a visible bump on the side of the foot, redness, swelling, and pain around the big toe joint. The area may feel tender or sore, especially when walking or wearing shoes. When the big toe leans toward the other toes, it sometimes results in overlapping or crowding. A podiatrist can diagnose bunions and recommend treatments like wider footwear, padding, custom orthotics, and exercises to reduce pressure and pain. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to realign the joint. If you are dealing with a painful bunion, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist
A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.
Why Do Bunions Form?
Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary
Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions
How Are Bunions Diagnosed?
Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.
How Are Bunions Treated?
Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
Orthotics or foot inserts
Surgery
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Myers,Shellpoint,and Naples, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
