Heel pain is sometimes the result of a stress fracture in the heel bone, also known as the calcaneus. This bone supports much of the body’s weight during walking and running, which makes it vulnerable to hairline cracks that result from repetitive impact. These calcaneal stress fractures often produce a deep, persistent ache that worsens with activity and does not ease with rest. Unlike plantar fasciitis, which causes pain near the arch or front of the heel, a stress fracture typically causes tenderness directly over the heel bone and swelling around the area. Because early X-rays can appear normal, advanced imaging such as an MRI is often needed to confirm the diagnosis. Without proper evaluation, continued pressure on the fracture can delay healing or lead to the need for surgery. If you are experiencing persistent heel pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.
Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, 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.
Causes of Heel Pain
Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.
Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.
Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.
Why Might Heel Pain Occur?
Treatments
Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.
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.
Bunions are painful bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe. They may look red, swollen, and misshapen, and can cause aching, burning, or stiffness while walking or wearing shoes. Bunions often develop due to inherited foot structure, tight or ill-fitting footwear, arthritis, or abnormal foot mechanics. Even after surgery, bunions can return if underlying causes, such as foot alignment issues or poor shoe choices, are not addressed. A podiatrist can diagnose bunions through physical examination and imaging, then create a personalized treatment plan. Options include custom orthotics, shoe modifications, padding, or surgery when needed. Early attention helps reduce pain and prevent progression. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss your symptoms and find the most effective solution for lasting relief.
If you are suffering from bunions, 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.
What Is a Bunion?
A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.
Why Do Bunions Form?
Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary
Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions
How Are Bunions Diagnosed?
Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.
How Are Bunions Treated?
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.
Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that spreads easily from person to person and through contaminated surfaces. The fungi that cause the infection thrive in warm, moist environments, such as locker rooms, public showers, and inside of shoes. Walking barefoot on damp floors or sharing towels, socks, or footwear can quickly spread the fungus. Even tiny flakes of infected skin can contain spores that linger on floors or carpets and lead to reinfection. Scratching the affected skin can also transfer the fungus to other parts of the foot or between the toes. A podiatrist can confirm an athlete's foot infection through examination and testing, prescribe antifungal medication, and recommend ways to prevent recurrence. Keeping the feet dry and clean, wearing flip-flops in public showers, and avoiding shared items can help reduce transmission. If you have an athlete's foot infection, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.
Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Dr. Lubrina Bryant from District Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.
What Is Athlete’s Foot?
Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.
Prevention
The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:
Symptoms
Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.
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.
Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek professional help and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.
Sesamoiditis is the inflammation of two small sesamoid bones located beneath the big toe joint. It is often caused by repetitive stress, high impact activities, or wearing ill-fitting shoes. Athletes, dancers, and anyone who spend long periods on their feet are at a higher risk. Symptoms include pain and swelling under the ball of the foot, difficulty bending the big toe, and discomfort when walking or running. A podiatrist can provide a thorough evaluation, recommend custom orthotics, prescribe anti-inflammatory treatments, and develop a stretching and strengthening program to relieve pain and prevent recurrence. Early intervention is important for a successful recovery. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to receive expert care and get back to pain-free movement.
Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Dr. Lubrina Bryant of District Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctor 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
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 office located in Washington, D.C . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
