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Plantar fasciitis is a main cause of heel pain that affects the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot. It often begins with sharp discomfort during the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. Pain may ease with movement but return after long periods of standing. The heel may feel tender, tight, or slightly swollen, and pressure along the arch can increase discomfort. Causes include repetitive strain, poor foot support, and tight calf muscles. Abnormal foot structure that places excess stress on the tissue may also contribute. A podiatrist can evaluate foot mechanics, confirm the diagnosis, and develop a treatment plan tailored to the patient. Care options include supportive footwear, custom orthotics, and targeted exercises to reduce tension and improve flexibility. Early treatment can help prevent chronic pain and further injury. If you think you may have plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Lubrina Bryant  from District Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctor 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 office located in Washington, D.C . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ingrown toenails can range from mildly painful to severely infected, but treatment options are highly effective. Early, conservative care often includes warm soaks, proper nail trimming, topical antibiotics, and protective padding to relieve pressure. In more persistent cases, a podiatrist may recommend partial nail avulsion, a minor procedure that removes the ingrown portion of the nail. For recurring or severe conditions, a matrixectomy, a procedure that permanently removes part of the nail root to stop regrowth, may be performed to permanently prevent that part of the nail from growing back. These in-office procedures are typically quick, safe, and provide long-term relief. Addressing the problem early helps prevent infection, swelling, and worsening pain. Whether your symptoms are new or ongoing, professional evaluation ensures the most appropriate treatment plan. Do not ignore the discomfort of an ingrown toenail. It is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist to receive expert care, and get back on your feet comfortably.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Lubrina Bryant of District Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Washington, D.C . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A plantar fibroma is a benign growth that develops within the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot. It often appears as a firm lump in the arch, and may gradually increase in size. Symptoms include discomfort, pressure when walking, and pain while wearing shoes. The exact cause is not always clear, but factors like trauma, genetic predisposition, and certain medical conditions may contribute. There is also a noted association with fibrous conditions elsewhere in the body, including uterine fibroids, which may be considered a risk factor. A podiatrist can diagnose a plantar fibroma and provide treatment options to relieve pain and improve mobility. A plantar fibroma may be uncomfortable, and may cause difficulty in completing daily activities. If you have developed this condition, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

A plantar fibroma may disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Lubrina Bryant of District Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Plantar Fibroma

A plantar fibroma is a fibrous knot in the arch of the foot. It is embedded in the plantar fascia which is a band of tissue that extends from the heel to the toes along the bottom of the foot. There can be multiple plantar fibromas in the feet at the same time. There are no known causes for this condition. If you have a plantar fibroma, there will be a bump in the arch of your foot that cannot be missed. Any associated pain is most often due to a shoe rubbing against the nodule. Non-surgical options, such as steroid injections, physical therapy, and orthotics should be tried first. Surgery is a last resort and is the only thing that will remove a plantar fibroma entirely. Consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and to determine the treatment regimen that is right for you.

What Causes a Plantar Fibroma?

While there are no specific causes identified, a plantar fibroma can possibly come from genetic predisposition or the formation of scar tissue that forms from healing the tears in the plantar fascia.

What Are the Symptoms of a Plantar Fibroma?

There will be a noticeable lump in the arch of the foot that may or may not cause pain. If pain is felt, it is typically because a shoe is rubbing up against the lump or when walking or standing barefoot.

Treatment and Prevention

A plantar fibroma will not disappear without treatment, but it can get smaller and be a non-issue. If pain persists, a podiatrist examines the foot and when the arch of the foot is pressed, pain can be felt down to the toes. An MRI or biopsy might be performed to help diagnose or evaluate the plantar fibroma. The following non-surgical options are generally enough to reduce the size and pain of these nodules:

• Steroid injections
• Orthotics
• Physical therapy to help apply anti-inflammatory creams on the bump 

Surgery is considered if the mass increases in size and the patient continues to feel pain after non-surgical methods are tried.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Washington, D.C . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle joint are stretched or torn, often from a sudden twist or misstep. While many people recover, the injury can leave behind weakness, reduced balance, and a reduced sense of where the ankle is during movement. These changes may increase the risk of future falls, especially in older adults. The ankle plays a key role in stability, and when it does not respond quickly or accurately, it can affect how safely you walk or change direction. Proper treatment includes rest, support, and exercises that rebuild strength and balance. Without proper treatment, the ankle may remain unstable and more prone to repeat injury. Wearing supportive footwear and addressing uneven walking patterns can also help reduce risk. If you have had an ankle sprain and notice ongoing instability or balance issues, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Dr. Lubrina Bryant from District Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Washington, D.C . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.