October 2022

There are many people worldwide who have heel pain. It can happen for a variety of reasons, and prompt medical treatment may bring relief. A heel spur is known to be painful, and occurs as a result of calcium deposits that build up on the bottom of the heel. In severe cases, this is often removed surgically. Plantar fasciitis is a common heel injury and happens when the band of tissue that is on the sole of the foot becomes inflamed. This is known as the plantar fascia, and it connects the heel to the toes. Plantar fasciitis can happen from wearing shoes that do not have adequate support, and from standing on hard surfaces for most of the day. Heel pain may also happen from a foot injury, such as landing awkwardly on the heel. Relief may be felt when the affected foot is elevated, and this may relieve a portion of the swelling that can accompany heel pain. Many patients find it helpful to perform specific heel stretches, including standing on a step, and lowering one heel at a time until a gentle stretch is felt. Heel pain is effectively treated by a podiatrist, and it is strongly advised that you contact this type of doctor who can diagnose the cause, and offer you the correct treatment techniques.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Grobowski Foot & Ankle. our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Bellevue, Seattle, and Issaquah, WA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

When an individual endures a foot stress fracture, they are essentially developing tiny cracks in the bones of their feet. Importantly, these stress fractures can result from overuse. Stress fractures in the feet can have several different causes. One of the possible causes is pregnancy. Although it is admittedly rare, a pregnant woman may develop osteoporosis, which is a condition that weakens the bones. It is possible that osteoporosis could then cause a stress fracture. Additionally, women can sometimes gain weight as they bring a baby to term. This weight gain can increase the likelihood of the development of stress fractures. If you are or thinking about becoming pregnant, you can talk with a podiatrist today to learn about the ways you can guard your feet against stress fractures.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Grobowski Foot & Ankle. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                  
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

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

Repeated pressure on the posterior tibial nerve is often the reason for the foot condition known as tarsal tunnel syndrome. This nerve is located inside the tarsal tunnel that is found near the ankle. Tarsal tunnel syndrome can occur when the nerve becomes inflamed. It can happen to people who have flat feet, diabetes, or who have endured an ankle sprain. The symptoms that patients can experience can consist of a burning sensation, a feeling of pins and needles, or may feel like an electric shock. The treatment for this condition can vary from wearing braces or splints to having surgery, and this depends on the severity of the ailment. Custom-made orthotics may be worn to alleviate some of the pressure from this syndrome. If you have this foot condition, it is strongly urged that you contact a podiatrist who can determine why you have it and choose the best treatment option for you.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact one of our podiatrists of Grobowski Foot & Ankle. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

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

Children’s feet are not just smaller than adult feet. They are shaped differently, and will change as they grow. During the first year of life, children’s feet are soft and supple and have ample fat pads on the soles. The arch of the foot begins to develop when a child starts to walk. The muscles become stronger as the feet grow in length and width. Before children begin to walk, their feet do not need to be covered except for warmth and hygiene. In fact, footwear that is too tight can interfere with the growth and development of their feet. Even when a child starts to walk, shoes are not needed indoors. Walking barefoot can help their feet grow normally, develop muscle tone, strength, and toe grasping action. While outside, a child’s feet should be protected by lightweight, flexible footwear. Shoes for young children should provide a degree of foot cushioning, stability, and foot flexibility. It is wise to check your child’s feet frequently to make sure their footwear is the correct size which may help to prevent foot issues from arising. If you are unsure of how to take care of your child’s feet or have questions about choosing appropriate footwear, consult a podiatrist who can help you.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one of our podiatrists of Grobowski Foot & Ankle. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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