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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 care needs.

Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a common condition caused by fungal infections affecting the nail. Different types include distal subungual, white superficial, and proximal subungual onychomycosis. Distal subungual onychomycosis is the most common, causing thickened, yellow nails that separate from the nail bed. White superficial onychomycosis appears as white, chalky spots on the nail surface, which can become brittle. Proximal subungual onychomycosis is rarer, starting at the nail base and spreading outward, often linked to weakened immune systems. Risk factors include warm, moist environments, trauma to the nail, and conditions like diabetes. Left untreated, fungal infections can cause discomfort and damage. If you suspect some type of foot fungus, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment, including advanced options for stubborn nails.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot and Ankle Clinics, PA. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

If you have any questions please 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.

Diabetic foot pain is common among people with diabetes, often stemming from diabetic neuropathy and peripheral vascular disease. Diabetic neuropathy occurs when elevated blood sugar levels damage the nerves in the feet, leading to numbness, tingling, or burning pain. This condition can also reduce the ability to sense injuries, increasing the risk of ulcers or infections. Peripheral vascular disease involves poor circulation caused by hardened arteries. This slows down healing of cuts or sores and may result in more severe complications, such as tissue damage. Both conditions primarily affect the feet, toes, and ankles. A podiatrist can evaluate your foot health, monitor nerve function, and recommend treatment to address pain or prevent complications like ulcers and infections. If you have foot pain as the result of diabetes, it is suggested that you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious conditon. 

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, 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.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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.

Ankle-foot orthoses, or AFOs, are versatile devices designed to enhance mobility, provide stability, and correct alignment for individuals with lower limb challenges. They extend from below the knee to the foot, providing targeted support for conditions such as arthritis, muscle weakness, or joint instability. They come in three primary types, which are flexible, rigid, and jointed. Flexible AFOs are crafted from soft, pliable materials that support movement while offering compression and mild stabilization. These are ideal for conditions like foot drop or minor gait abnormalities, allowing users to maintain natural mobility. Rigid AFOs, constructed from firm materials like plastic or carbon fiber, immobilize the ankle and foot to ensure maximum support and alignment. They are commonly prescribed for severe conditions such as post-stroke recovery or significant ankle instability. Jointed AFOs include hinges that allow controlled movement, balancing support with functional mobility. These are especially beneficial for rehabilitation, helping users regain strength and range of motion while maintaining safety and stability during the healing process. If you have foot and ankle challenges, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss whether an ankle-foot orthotic is right for you.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, 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 Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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.