Items filtered by date: July 2021

The medical name for flat feet is pes planus. Flat feet are a foot condition that affects the arch, which can be absent or extremely low. Many patients have no symptoms with this condition, and it does not interfere with accomplishing daily activities. Some people, however, are severely affected by flat feet, and can experience symptoms that often include easily becoming tired, pain in the heel and arch area, and difficulty standing on the toes. Flat feet can be caused by genetic factors, foot injury, aging, and pregnancy. There are three groups of flat feet. Mild cases may be relieved when arch supports are used. Moderate flat feet may affect the Achilles tendon, and can be painful. If flat feet are severe, the foot may be deformed. It is suggested that patients who have any type of flat feet be under the care of a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact David J. Borcicky, DPM from Alabama. Our doctor will treat your foot care needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Mobile, AL . 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 the professional help of your podiatrist and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.

Total ankle replacement is a surgical procedure in which a defective ankle joint is removed and replaced with plastic or metal pieces. This surgery is usually done to combat pain and disability from late-stage ankle arthritis. People with this condition often have such significant joint degeneration that they can barely move their ankle. During the procedure, the surgeon removes the diseased lower part of the shin bone (tibia) and upper part of the foot bone (talus), then replaces them with an artificial joint. Recovery can be a lengthy process. It often takes at least 4 months to return to full activity. Nevertheless, those who undergo the procedure often find that their increased mobility and reduced pain is worth it. To learn more about total ankle replacement please consult with a podiatrist today!

In certain cases, in which the patient suffers from extreme pain or damage in a joint, joint replacement surgery may be deemed useful. If you have constant pain in a foot joint, consult with David J. Borcicky, DPM from Alabama. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot treatment.

What Is Joint Replacement Surgery?

Over time, joints wear down; this can be exacerbated by diseases and conditions. Joint replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty, is when a damaged joint is surgically removed and replaced with a prosthesis. Prostheses, which can be made of ceramic, plastic, or metal, act as joints in lieu of an actual joint. One of the most prevalent causes for joint replacement is arthritis.

Arthritis in the Foot

Arthritis can occur in any joint in the body, including in the feet. Common types of arthritis in the foot are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. The big toe is usually where arthritis occurs in the foot; this is known as hallux rigidus.

Joint Replacement Surgery in the Foot

The most common form of joint replacement in the foot is a first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint placement. MTP joint replacement surgery is designed to treat hallux rigidus. Surgery is not intensive, and recovery occurs within one to two months after the procedure has been done. Overall, joint replacement surgery is a safe and effective way to treat pain in the joint of the foot.

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

The medical condition known as a heel spur can cause severe pain and discomfort upon rising in the morning, followed by a dull ache in the heel for the duration of the day. But not everyone experiences these symptoms, sometimes people have no symptoms and only detect a heel spur as the result of an X-ray. So now you're wondering, what exactly is a heel spur? A heel spur is defined as a bony protrusion or growth that is made up of calcium and develops on the underside of a person's foot. Despite its definition, a heel spur is  usually smooth but can appear pointy or hooked. They typically develop as a result of repetitive trauma to the heel bone and existing inflammation can be connected to the pain. Mild relief may be found when resting the affected foot and it is said that performing gentle stretches can help in the recovery process as well. Some patients also find it beneficial to wear custom made orthotics as they can be helpful in providing additional support. If you are experiencing pain of any kind in your heel, it is strongly suggested that you seek the care of a podiatrist. In some cases severe heel spurs may need surgery for permanent removal, so it's best to be under the care of a foot specialist who can diagnose and treat your condition properly. 

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact David J. Borcicky, DPM from Alabama. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Mobile, AL . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the tendon that runs along the bottom of the foot, is the most common cause of heel pain. This condition can develop following long hours of standing, walking, running, or participating in sports. In rarer cases, an acute injury to the bottom of the foot can damage the plantar fascia and bring forth early stages of this condition. Having flat or overpronated feet, high arches, wearing ill-fitting and uncomfortable shoes, having tight calf muscles, or being overweight or obese can also cause plantar fasciitis. If you are suffering from heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist near you.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact David J. Borcicky, DPM of Alabama. 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?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

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 contact our office located in Mobile, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.