Items filtered by date: December 2024

Heel pain can be caused by a variety of factors that place stress on the structures of the foot, particularly the heel bone, muscles, and ligaments. Some common causes of heel pain include abnormal walking patterns, obesity, wearing ill-fitting footwear, and prolonged standing or activities on hard surfaces. Physically active people, middle-aged adults, pregnant women, and those with arthritis or diabetes are at greater risk. Heel pain may also result from injuries like stress fractures, inflammation of soft tissues such as bursitis, or nerve issues like neuromas. Complications can include plantar fasciitis, where the connective tissue along the sole becomes inflamed, and heel spurs, which are calcified growths linked to chronic strain. A podiatrist can determine the cause of heel pain, identify contributing factors like gait abnormalities, and recommend treatment, such as custom orthotics or adjustments to footwear. If you are experiencing heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact the foot specialists of Spartan Podiatry. 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 our offices located in Battle Creek, and Marshall, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Bunion surgery can help alleviate discomfort and improve foot alignment, but it is essential to understand the potential risks involved. One concern is the recurrence of the bunion, which may happen if the surgical approach does not address the underlying bone misalignment. Another complication of bunion surgery is stiffness in the big toe joint, often due to scar tissue or pre-existing arthritis, which can limit motion after surgery. Infection, while uncommon, may occur and could involve any hardware used to stabilize the bone. Hallux varus, a rare complication, may cause the big toe to deviate excessively in the opposite direction, potentially leading to pain and further deformity. Also, some patients experience postoperative issues, such as nonunion, where the bone fails to heal properly, often linked to overall health or other factors. A podiatrist can assess your case, recommend the best surgical techniques, and provide expert care during recovery to reduce risks and promote optimal results. If you have a painful bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to find out if surgery is an option for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact the foot specialists of Spartan Podiatry. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Battle Creek, and Marshall, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Achilles tendinopathy is a common foot and ankle issue caused by overuse of the Achilles tendon. It can be classified into two types, which are insertional, where the tendon attaches to the heel, and non-insertional, which impacts the middle portion of the tendon. While both cause pain, swelling, and stiffness, insertional tendinopathy often involves discomfort at the back of the heel, while non-insertional pain is felt higher up along the tendon. If left untreated, the tendon can go through non-healing stages known as reactive tendinopathy, or early swelling and pain, tendon disrepair, and degenerative tendinopathy, causing long-term damage with thickening and weakness. Proper treatment includes rest, targeted exercises, and addressing any biomechanical issues. If you are experiencing persistent pain in your Achilles tendon, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and an effective treatment plan.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact the foot specialists of Spartan Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Battle Creek, and Marshall, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Foot problems caused by diabetes can significantly affect a patient’s health and quality of life. Two common conditions that contribute to diabetic foot complications are loss of protective sensation, or LOPS, and peripheral artery disease, or PAD. Loss of protective sensation occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the nerves in the feet, leading to reduced sensation. This can prevent a diabetic patient from feeling injuries like sores, blisters, or temperature changes, which in turn increases the risk of developing wounds that may become ulcerated or infected. Peripheral artery disease restricts blood flow to the feet resulting from a buildup of plaque. This slows the healing of sores and can lead to foot ulcers or, in severe cases, amputations. A podiatrist can monitor and address these problems by assessing nerve function, checking circulation, and providing guidance on protective footwear and foot care routines. If you have foot problems caused by diabetes, it is suggested that you schedule regular visits to a podiatrist who can help you to manage them.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact the foot specialists from Spartan Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Battle Creek, and Marshall, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

An ankle fracture affects more than just physical mobility. It can have psychological and social impacts too. Physically, an ankle fracture often requires immobilization, leading to muscle weakness, joint stiffness, and challenges with weight-bearing even after healing. Recovery may take months, with targeted exercises needed to regain strength. Psychologically, the prolonged healing process and limited independence may lead to frustration, anxiety, and even depression, especially for active individuals. Fear of re-injury can also affect confidence. Socially, disrupted routines and limited participation in work or hobbies may cause feelings of isolation. If you have sustained an ankle fracture, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist as quickly as possible. This foot and ankle expert can guide you, focusing on both physical and emotional support, to make recovery smoother and help you regain a balanced, active lifestyle post-injury.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact the foot specialists from Spartan Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
•  Swelling around the area
•  Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Battle Creek, and Marshall, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.