Walking gives the feet regular movement while supporting the health of the entire body. With each step, the foot absorbs weight, adjusts to the ground, and helps move the body forward. This coordinated action engages muscles in the feet and lower legs. Regular walking also supports heart health and circulation. For many people, it offers a practical way to remain active without the higher impact of running. Healthy movement depends on comfortable joints and muscles that provide adequate support. When pain changes the way someone walks, other parts of the foot may take on extra pressure, making a podiatric assessment important.

Although walking benefits foot health, repeated pressure sometimes reveals an underlying problem. Heel pain might reflect irritation of the strong band of tissue beneath the foot. Aching in the ball of the foot may develop when pressure concentrates beneath the toe joints. Arthritis also causes discomfort by affecting the joints used with each step. Shoes that fit poorly contribute to rubbing and crowd the toes. A sudden increase in walking distance places additional demands on bones and tendons, the strong tissues connecting muscles to bones. Persistent soreness requires attention because continuing to walk through pain may worsen an injury.

A podiatrist evaluates foot structure and watches how the feet move while walking. The examination also includes checking joint movement, muscle strength, and areas of tenderness. An assessment of circulation and sensation helps identify concerns that affect walking safety, particularly in patients with diabetes. Treatment depends on the cause of the pain. A podiatrist recommends appropriate walking shoes and determines whether custom orthotics would improve support or redistribute pressure. These prescription shoe inserts address specific foot mechanics. Guidance about suitable activity levels helps patients stay active while protecting injured tissues. Follow-up visits allow treatment adjustments as symptoms improve. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Ashley Bojrab, DPM from Bojrab Podiatry. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our practitioner to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Fort Wayne, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fasciitis  develops when the plantar fascia becomes irritated and causes heel pain. This strong band of tissue runs along the bottom of the foot and helps support the arch. Symptoms often include sharp heel pain with the first steps after waking or sitting. Some people also notice aching after standing or walking for long periods.

Several factors can contribute to plantar fasciitis. Wearing unsupportive footwear every day may place repeated stress on the plantar fascia. Shoes with worn soles, poor arch support, or limited cushioning may not provide enough protection during daily activities. Tight shoes can also affect comfort and walking patterns. Other risk factors include increased activity, prolonged standing, and certain foot structures.

Routine footwear can have a long-term impact when it does not match your foot's needs. Continually wearing shoes that lack support may contribute to repeated strain and discomfort. Changing shoes regularly and choosing comfortable footwear with appropriate support helps reduce unnecessary stress. A podiatrist can also evaluate your foot structure, walking pattern, and symptoms. Treatment may include activity changes, supportive footwear, or custom orthotics, when appropriate.

When plantar fasciitis causes ongoing pain, a podiatrist will first examine the foot and discuss your symptoms and daily activities. Imaging tests may be recommended when another condition needs to be ruled out. Treatment focuses on reducing irritation and supporting healing. Follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to monitor progress and adjust care as needed. Early attention can help prevent persistent heel pain from interfering with daily life. This can make returning to activities more manageable and comfortable. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat plantar fasciitis.

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 Ashley Bojrab, DPM from Bojrab Podiatry. Our practitioner 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 office located in Fort Wayne, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A bunion is a foot deformity that develops when the big toe shifts toward the other toes as the joint at its base moves outward. This creates a noticeable bump along the inner side of the foot. Bunions may cause soreness, redness, or pain while walking. Shoes can rub against the bump, causing irritation or calluses. A bunion is not simply a cosmetic concern when it affects comfort, movement, or daily activities.

Several factors can increase the risk of developing bunions. Family history may play a role, because inherited foot structure can affect pressure distribution. Wearing narrow or poorly fitting shoes can add pressure to the toes. Arthritis and previous injuries may also contribute. A podiatrist can examine the foot and use X-rays when needed to understand severity. Treatment may include wearing wider shoes, protective padding, or activity changes. These steps can reduce pressure and improve comfort.

Bunion surgery may be considered when pain continues despite non-surgical treatment. It may also be discussed when a bunion interferes with walking, wearing shoes, or normal activities. The decision depends on symptoms and foot structure rather than appearance alone. During evaluation, a podiatrist reviews your symptoms and examines the joint. X-rays can help determine alignment and guide treatment planning. If surgery is appropriate, the procedure is selected based on the type and severity of the bunion.

Healing after bunion surgery requires patience and following your podiatrist’s instructions. Treatment may include protecting the foot, limiting weight-bearing, and gradually returning to activities. Follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to monitor healing. Early evaluation can help you understand your options. If you have a bunion that causes pain or interferes with daily life, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if this type of foot surgery is right for you. 

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Ashley Bojrab, DPM of Bojrab Podiatry. Our practitioner 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 office located in Fort Wayne, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot injuries are a problem in construction, where workers face demanding surfaces and changing conditions. Wearing the wrong shoes can increase stress on the feet and ankles, and make movement less secure. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, or difficulty walking. Construction workers may experience injuries suddenly when they lose stability. Wearing proper footwear can help support safer movement.

Construction sites can create hazards for feet and ankles. Wet surfaces may become slippery, causing a sudden loss of stability and increasing the chance of a twist or fall. Poorly designed shoes may lack adequate slip resistance, making it harder to maintain traction. Additionally, insufficient cushioning can increase impact on the heels and joints during long hours of standing. Risk factors include worn-out soles, improper shoe size, and footwear that does not match site conditions.

Choosing slip-resistant work shoes is an important safety step. Look for sturdy footwear with soles designed to maintain traction on wet or uneven surfaces. Proper cushioning can help absorb impact and reduce daily stress on the feet. A podiatrist can evaluate pain after an injury and determine whether imaging is needed. Treatment may involve wearing protective footwear or immobilization. The podiatrist can also assess walking mechanics and recommend custom orthotics when needed.

Foot and ankle injuries should not be ignored if pain continues after leaving the construction site. A podiatrist can check for fractures, ligament damage, and other conditions that may affect safety and mobility. Early treatment can support healing and help prevent a minor injury from becoming a lasting problem. Workers can reduce risks by replacing damaged shoes and keeping footwear appropriate for job conditions. If you have foot or ankle injuries from working in construction, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Ashley Bojrab, DPM from Bojrab Podiatry. Our practitioner will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Fort Wayne, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.