January 2025

Wounds That Don't Heal Need to Be Checked

Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.

Causes of Pain in the Bottom of the Foot

Pain in the bottom of the foot can result from various causes, including plantar fasciitis, Morton’s neuroma, or flat feet. Symptoms often include sharp or burning pain, swelling, or discomfort in areas like the arch, ball, or sole of the foot. These issues may stem from repetitive activities, improper footwear, or structural foot problems. A podiatrist can examine the bottom of your foot to determine the underlying cause and provide ways to alleviate the pain. This foot doctor may recommend custom orthotics to improve foot alignment, offer advice on proper footwear, or prescribe other treatments targeted to your specific condition. Left untreated, pain in the bottom of the foot may interfere with daily activities and lead to long-term issues, like altered walking patterns or chronic discomfort. If you have pain in the bottom of your foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Clinics, PA. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Bone Spurs
  • Corns
  • Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Ingrown Toenails
  • Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
  • Flat Feet
  • Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
  • And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Woodbury, West St. Paul, and Edina, MN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Circulation Problems and the Feet

Circulation problems in the feet occur when blood flow to the feet, toes, or ankles is restricted due to narrowed arteries. Poor circulation is often the result of atherosclerosis, where plaque builds up in the blood vessels. A result of poor circulation is peripheral arterial disease, or PAD. Patients with PAD may experience symptoms like numbness, tingling, burning sensations, or cramping in the feet or lower legs during activity. Additional signs include cool, pale skin, hair loss on the feet, slow-healing sores, and a diminished pulse. People with diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or a history of smoking are at increased risk of developing PAD. A podiatrist can assess your circulation issues through non-invasive tests, such as the ankle-brachial index, or ABI, or a Doppler ultrasound to determine blood flow and identify any blockages. Timely diagnosis and treatment by a podiatrist can help reduce symptoms and prevent complications, like non-healing foot wounds or infections. If you have circulation problems in the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our podiatrists of Foot and Ankle Clinics, PA. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

  • Numbness
  • Tingling
  • Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
  • Pain
  • Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Woodbury, West St. Paul, and Edina, MN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment of Poor Blood Circulation in the Feet

What Is Sesamoiditis?

Sesamoiditis is a type of tendonitis that affects the two sesamoid bones that are located beneath the big toe joint. This condition occurs when the tendons surrounding these bones become inflamed, typically due to overuse or repetitive pressure. Symptoms of sesamoiditis include pain beneath the big toe, swelling, and tenderness, especially when walking, running, or bearing weight on the affected foot. You may also have trouble moving the toe or experience discomfort when wearing shoes. The primary cause of sesamoiditis includes activities that place repetitive pressure on the big toe, such as running, ballet, or jumping. Wearing ill-fitting shoes or high heels can also contribute to the condition. A podiatrist can help diagnose sesamoiditis through physical exams and imaging. Treatments may include rest, anti-inflammatory medications, custom orthotics to relieve pressure, or specific exercises to strengthen the foot. In severe cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery may be considered. If you have any of the above symtpoms, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot and Ankle Clinics, PA. Our doctors 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 offices located in Woodbury, West St. Paul, and Edina, MN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Sesamoiditis

Understanding Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that causes pain in the heel and bottom of the foot. The primary cause of plantar fasciitis is repeated stress or strain on the fascia, often due to excessive walking, running, or standing. Other factors like wearing poor footwear, tight calf muscles, or being overweight can also contribute. The most noticeable symptom is sharp pain in the heel, especially when taking the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. As the day progresses, the pain may lessen but can return with prolonged standing or walking. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination where a podiatrist may palpate the heel and foot, and sometimes imaging tests to rule out other conditions. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists  from Foot and Ankle Clinics, PA. Our doctors 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 Woodbury, West St. Paul, and Edina, MN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Plantar Fasciitis

Do Your Child's Feet Hurt?

Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.

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