Heel pain can turn a short walk into an unpleasant experience. Each time your heel hits the ground, a heel strike sends force through the heel and ankle. Pain begins when tissues or bones cannot handle that force well. One cause is plantar fasciitis, irritation of the strong band along the bottom of the foot. Another cause is Achilles tendinitis, an irritation of the tendon that connects the calf muscle to the heel. Either problem can result in pain, stiffness, or swelling. 

Other foot problems can make the heel hurt while walking. A stress fracture is a small crack in the heel bone, caused by repeated high-impact activity. A pinched nerve near the ankle can also cause pain, tingling, or numbness around the heel. An irritated fluid-filled sac, called a bursa, near a tendon can hurt. Shoes that lack proper support can add heel strain. A sudden increase in running, jumping, or long-distance walking can do the same. Severe pain after an injury, an inability to bear weight, or major swelling deserves prompt medical attention. Because several problems cause similar symptoms, the location and pattern of pain matter. 

A podiatrist can examine your foot, watch how you walk, and ask when the pain began. Imaging can identify a fracture or hidden problem. After finding the cause, the podiatrist can create a plan that protects the injured area and improves foot support. Treatment options include custom orthotics, a walking boot, or a night splint. An injection might be considered for certain inflammation. Surgery is reserved for select cases that do not improve with other care. A podiatrist can also check your shoes and explain safe activity changes. Early evaluation is essential because walking on an injured heel can limit movement and make pain harder to manage. If you have heel pain while walking, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Ashley Bojrab, DPM of Bojrab Podiatry. Our practitioner 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 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.

Sesamoiditis is irritation or inflammation of the small bones beneath the big toe joint called sesamoids. These bones help protect the tendons and absorb pressure as the foot moves. When they experience too much repeated stress, the surrounding tissues can become irritated and painful. Sesamoiditis often affects people who spend a lot of time on their feet or participate in activities that place pressure on the ball of the foot. Recognizing the early signs can help you get comfortable and return to your normal routine.

Physical activity is a common reason sesamoiditis develops. Dancers and soccer players may experience this condition because their activities require frequent pushing off through the toes. Running and jumping can also place repeated pressure beneath the big toe. Suddenly increasing your exercise routine may make the problem more likely. Wearing high heels can shift your body weight toward the front of the foot and increase pressure on the sesamoid bones. Wearing poorly cushioned shoes, prolonged standing, and previous injuries can also contribute.

Sesamoiditis symptoms often develop gradually and may include pain beneath the big toe, swelling, and tenderness. You may notice discomfort when walking, bending the big toe, or participating in favorite activities. A podiatrist can begin by discussing your symptoms, activity level, and footwear. The foot may be examined for tenderness and movement problems. Imaging may also be recommended to rule out a fracture or another condition. Treatment often begins with rest, activity changes, and wearing supportive footwear.

Healing requires giving irritated tissues enough time to recover while reducing pressure on the affected area. A podiatrist may recommend cushioning, padding, or orthotics to help redistribute pressure. More severe cases may require temporary immobilization with a walking boot. Follow-up appointments allow the podiatrist to monitor healing and adjust treatment as needed. If you have symptoms of sesamoiditis, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Ashley Bojrab, DPM of Bojrab Podiatry. Our practitioner will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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.

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet. It can develop when fungi grow in warm, moist environments, including inside damp shoes and socks. The infection commonly begins between the toes but can spread to other areas of the foot. Athlete’s foot can also spread from one person to another through contact with contaminated surfaces, shoes, and floors. Symptoms can vary depending on the type of infection. They can include an itchy rash, scaling skin, or blisters. Some people develop dry skin across the soles and sides of the feet. The infection can affect one foot or both feet.

A podiatrist can examine the skin of the feet and determine whether the symptoms are consistent with athlete’s foot. Other skin conditions can cause similar signs, so an accurate diagnosis is important. The location and appearance of the rash can provide useful information during the examination. A podiatrist can also determine whether the infection has caused additional skin problems. In some cases, athlete’s foot can become more painful, swollen, or red. Open sores, blisters, or drainage can also develop when another infection affects the area. Professional evaluation can help identify these changes and guide appropriate treatment.

Treatment for athlete’s foot focuses on clearing the fungal infection and preventing it from causing further skin problems. A podiatrist can recommend an appropriate antifungal treatment based on the severity and location of the infection. Prescription medication can be considered when a stronger treatment is appropriate. A podiatrist can also monitor the skin and determine whether the infection is responding to treatment. Prompt evaluation is especially important when symptoms are painful, spreading, or interfering with daily activities. If you have symptoms of athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions,  which may include prescribed medication. 

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Ashley Bojrab, DPM from Bojrab Podiatry.  Our practitioner will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are 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 and ankle needs.

A broken toe can happen when the toe is struck, bent forcefully, or hit by a heavy object. Each toe contains small bones that can break after an injury. Symptoms can include pain, swelling, and stiffness. Some people notice pain while walking or putting pressure on the foot. The toe can also look crooked if the broken bone has moved out of its normal position. Injuries to the big toe deserve particular attention because this toe plays an important role in balance and movement. An open wound near the injury can also signal a more serious break. A podiatrist can examine the toe, assess its position and movement, and determine how severe the injury is.

Treatment for a broken toe depends on the location and severity of the injury. A podiatrist can examine the toe and determine whether imaging is appropriate to evaluate the bones. If the toe is out of position, treatment can focus on restoring proper alignment so the bone can heal correctly. More serious fractures can require a splint, cast, or surgery. A podiatrist can also monitor healing and help determine when it is appropriate to return to normal activities. Most broken toes heal within several weeks, but more serious injuries can take longer to heal. Professional evaluation is especially important when there is significant swelling, an open wound, severe pain, or a crooked toe.

A broken toe can interfere with walking, work, and other daily activities. Delaying evaluation can be a concern when the toe is severely painful, visibly crooked, or has an open wound. A podiatrist can assess the injury and create a treatment plan based on the type of fracture and your symptoms. Follow-up care can help track healing and make sure the toe is progressing properly. A proper evaluation can also help protect the toe from additional stress while it heals. If you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Ashley Bojrab, DPM from Bojrab Podiatry. Our practitioner will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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.