During pregnancy, many women experience noticeable changes in their feet due to natural physical and hormonal adjustments. Feet may increase in size as ligaments loosen, arches may flatten, and additional weight can increase pressure on joints, often reducing overall foot stability. These changes can lead to discomfort or difficulty with mobility. Choosing the right footwear is essential for support and comfort. Shoes with a wide toe box, proper arch support, cushioned heels, adjustable fit, and breathable materials can help reduce pain and improve balance. A podiatrist can provide personalized guidance, treatments, and support throughout pregnancy. If you have developed foot pain during your pregnancy, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on additional relief tactics.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Shawn Echard, DPM from Laurel Podiatry LLC. Our practitioner will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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 care needs.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot, becomes inflamed. It often develops from repetitive stress, overuse, flat feet, high arches, or wearing shoes that lack adequate support. Risk factors include obesity, prolonged standing, excessive running, and tight calf muscles. Symptoms typically involve sharp heel pain, especially with the first steps in the morning, swelling, and stiffness. A podiatrist can help by evaluating foot mechanics, prescribing custom orthotics, and suggesting stretching exercises and supportive footwear. Providing targeted treatments to reduce inflammation and pain are other factors. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with 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 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 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 offices located in Greensburg and Somerset, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

When the common peroneal nerve is injured, it can disrupt the way the foot and leg move or feel. This nerve runs along the outer side of the knee and down the leg, carrying signals that control certain muscles and sensations. Damage can occur from trauma, prolonged pressure, or underlying health issues. People may notice weakness when lifting the foot, numbness, or a tingling sensation along the shin and top of the foot. In some cases, walking becomes difficult due to a condition often called foot drop. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent long term complications. Management may include targeted exercises, bracing, or addressing the cause of the nerve injury. Paying attention to persistent changes in strength or sensation is important. If these symptoms develop, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Shawn Echard, DPM from Laurel Podiatry LLC. Our practitioner will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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 care needs.