Items filtered by date: October 2022

Plantar fasciitis is an extremely common type of heel pain that can develop in an individual when the plantar fascia, a band of tissue in the arch of the foot, becomes inflamed. Many different physical activities can cause plantar fasciitis. One of these overlooked causes can be driving repeatedly. Someone who is constantly driving may be increasing their susceptibility to plantar fasciitis in their right foot because this foot is needed to constantly press on and off of the gas and brake pedals. This repeated flexing of the foot is known as plantar flexion, and may exacerbate your plantar fasciitis. If you are an excessive driver, there are steps that you might consider taking to mitigate your foot condition. For example, you might be intentional about taking several breaks during car rides so that you may fully stretch your feet and legs. Contact a podiatrist today for more information.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Shawn Echard, DPM  from Laurel Podiatry LLC. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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

Onychomycosis, which is the medical name for toenail fungus, can be unsightly. It is a fungus that affects the nail from underneath and can happen frequently from visiting places where it lives and thrives. These can include public swimming pools, locker rooms, and shower room floors. The fungus enters the body through small cracks in the skin and it is suggested to wear appropriate shoes while in these areas. Common symptoms that many patients experience with toenail fungus can include toenails that have become brittle and yellowed, and in severe cases, the nail may fall off. There are certain groups of people who may be prone to developing toenail fungus. These can consist of patients who have diabetes, poor circulation, or who are over sixty-five years of age. If you have symptoms of toenail fungus, it is advised that you visit a podiatrist who can extract a sample of the nail and helps determine a correct diagnosis. This is followed by applying the correct treatment methods which may include prescription medications.

For more information about treatment, contact Shawn Echard, DPM of Laurel Podiatry LLC. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

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

People who have gained weight may be concerned that their feet have gotten larger. Weight gain generally affects the overall body, and the feet are no exception. They may increase in length and width, and larger shoes often need to be purchased, which may be bothersome to some people. However, the feet will feel better when comfortable shoes are worn. It is suggested that a healthy diet be consumed, which may start the process of weight reduction, including in the feet. Drinking plenty of water daily, and implementing a gentle exercise routine may accelerate the desired weight loss. Additionally, elevating the feet frequently may reduce excess fluid build-up. Research has shown it may be beneficial to purchase running shoes that are larger, which may help to accommodate the size of the feet as a result of increased blood flow while running. If you would like more information about obesity and how it can affect the feet, please confer with a podiatrist. 

Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact Shawn Echard, DPM from Laurel Podiatry LLC. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and Your Feet

Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.

Problems & Complications

Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.

Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.

Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot. 

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