Items filtered by date: June 2024

Heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the underside of the heel bone, often causing heel pain. They form when calcium deposits build up over time, usually due to strain on foot muscles and ligaments, stretching of the plantar fascia, or repeated tearing of the membrane that covers the heel bone. People most at risk include those with flat feet or high arches, athletes who engage in a lot of running and jumping, and individuals who are overweight or wear poorly fitted shoes. Symptoms of heel spurs include sharp pain in the heel, especially while standing up in the morning or after sitting for a long time, and a feeling of a small, hard lump under the heel. Treatment generally involves rest, wearing orthotic inserts, gentle exercises, and taking anti-inflammatory medications. However, for persistent pain, a minimally invasive procedure called a percutaneous plantar fasciotomy, which involves releasing tension in the fascia can be an alternative to surgically removing the spur. If you think you have a heel spur, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan that is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Adriana Strimbu, DPM of Complete Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Hallandale Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis causes heel pain, resulting from inflammation of the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bone to the toes. It typically occurs due to repetitive strain or overuse, often seen in runners, individuals with high arches or flat feet, and those who stand for prolonged periods. The pain from plantar fasciitis is usually sharp and most intense with the first steps in the morning or after periods of inactivity. It may decrease with movement but can return after long periods of standing or walking. Relief can consist of rest, stretching exercises, and taking anti-inflammatory medication. Wearing supportive shoes and using orthotic inserts can also help. Preventative measures involve maintaining a healthy weight, performing regular foot stretches, and avoiding excessive strain on the feet. If left untreated, plantar fasciitis can lead to chronic heel pain and other complications. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and an effective treatment plan. 

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 Adriana Strimbu, DPM from Complete Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor 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 office located in Hallandale Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Idiopathic toe walking is a phenomenon where children habitually walk on their toes without any underlying medical condition or known cause. While toe walking is common in toddlers who are learning to walk, persistent toe walking beyond the age of three without any identifiable cause can be a cause for concern. Children with idiopathic toe walking typically walk on their toes with their heels off the ground during most or all of their walking activities. This behavior can affect their balance, coordination, and overall motor development. While the exact cause of idiopathic toe walking remains unclear, it is believed to involve a combination of factors including tightness in the calf muscles, sensory processing issues, or developmental delays. Early intervention is vital in addressing idiopathic toe walking and preventing potential complications such as muscle stiffness or contractions. Treatment may involve specific stretches that can strengthen the calf muscles, orthotic devices to encourage heel contact, and monitoring to track developmental progress and address any underlying issues. If your child has this condition, it is strongly suggested that you seek the advice of a podiatrist who can guide you toward appropriate treatment measures.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Adriana Strimbu, DPM of Complete Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Hallandale Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Bunions, medically termed hallux valgus, are a foot deformity characterized by a bony bump at the base of the big toe, while the top of the toe shifts toward the others. Bunions are often accompanied by inflammation and pain. Factors like hereditary predisposition and wearing tight or improper footwear can worsen the deformity. Treatment strategies for bunions typically encompass both non-surgical and surgical approaches. Non-surgical intervention focuses on symptom management and includes wearing well-fitted shoes that provide ample space for the toes. Wearing bunion pads, toe spacers, or orthotic devices for support are among the less invasive treatment options. However, if conservative measures fail to provide relief or if the bunion is severe, surgery may be necessary. Bunion surgery aims to realign the toe joint, alleviate pain, and improve foot function. Surgical techniques include joint trimming and total joint replacement, depending on the severity of the bunion. If you have a bunion that is affecting your daily activities, it's suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a thorough exam and suggested treatment measures. 

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Adriana Strimbu, DPM of Complete Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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