Blog

Tuesday, 12 September 2023 00:00

A Guide to Treating Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis, a common and often debilitating foot condition, can bring your daily life to a halt due to severe heel pain. Fortunately, various treatment options are available to help you regain your comfort and mobility. Conservative measures like rest and taking anti-inflammatory medications can help to alleviate discomfort. Wearing supportive footwear with proper arch support and cushioning can significantly reduce strain on the plantar fascia. Stretching exercises that target the calf muscles and Achilles tendon can also provide relief by loosening tight structures around the foot. Custom orthotics may be recommended to support the arch and distribute pressure evenly. In rare cases, when conservative treatments are not sufficient, medical interventions such as cortico-steroid injections or surgery may be considered. Plantar fasciitis can be challenging, but with the right approach and patience, you can overcome it and return to a pain-free, active lifestyle. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can effectively 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 Dr. Michael D. Garvin  from Florida. 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 offices located in Port St. Lucie, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Plantar Fasciitis
Saturday, 09 September 2023 00:00

Gout Pain Can Be Managed

Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.

Tuesday, 05 September 2023 00:00

Footwear Influence on Bunions

Bunions, or hallux valgus, is a foot deformity where the big toe tilts toward the second toe, causing a bony lump on the side of the foot. Symptoms include pain, swelling, callused skin, and changes in foot shape. Contrary to popular belief, fashion shoes such as high heels do not directly cause bunions. Bunions are primarily the result of a genetic predisposition and the mechanical structure of the foot. However, wearing shoes that squeeze the forefoot and crowd the toes can worsen an existing condition and lead to pain and joint deformity. Bunions can also develop due to factors such as age, arthritis, or sports activities. Preventing bunions involves choosing sensible, well fitting footwear with ample toe room. Avoiding pointed shoes and excessive heels can be helpful. Proper footwear, non surgical treatments and wearing orthotics are initial choices. Surgery is typically the last option for bunions causing significant pain. This involves removing the bony lump and realigning the big toe, ultimately improving foot function and comfort. If you have a bunion that is causing discomfort, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to have it evaluated and obtain appropriate treatment.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Dr. Michael D. Garvin of Florida. 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 offices located in Port St. Lucie, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Bunions

Stress fractures are microscopic cracks in bones, and can significantly impact foot health and mobility. These fractures are often the result of repetitive strain and overuse, which can gradually weaken the bones. Athletes, especially runners and dancers, are susceptible to developing a foot stress fracture, as a result of the constant impact on their feet. Sudden increases in activity intensity or duration can also trigger stress fractures. Factors such as wearing improper footwear, inadequate rest between activities, and poor foot structure can lead to a heightened risk of incurring a stress fracture. Additionally, medical conditions such as osteoporosis can reduce bone density, and increase vulnerability. Individuals with certain nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, or a history of stress fractures can face an elevated risk. Preventative measures include proper training progression, adequate nutrition, and wearing supportive shoes. If you have a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition. 

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

  • Runners                                  
  • People affected with Osteoporosis
  • Tennis or basketball players
  • Gymnasts
  • High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

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

Read more about Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle
Tuesday, 22 August 2023 00:00

Changes to the Feet During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a much-anticipated journey for many women, often filled with numerous physical changes, and the feet are no exception. During this transformative time, many women experience various alterations in their feet, which can be from hormonal shifts and increased weight. One common change is the flattening of the arches, caused by the hormone relaxin. This is effective in loosening the ligaments and joints in preparation for childbirth. As a result, some women may experience pain and discomfort in the feet and ankles. Swelling, also known as edema, is another prevalent issue, as the body retains more fluids during pregnancy. This can lead to a feeling of heaviness and tightness in the feet. To alleviate these symptoms, pregnant women are advised to wear comfortable and supportive footwear, elevate their feet when possible, and perform foot stretches and exercises. It's essential to prioritize foot health during pregnancy to ensure a smoother and more enjoyable journey to motherhood. It is suggested for women who are pregnant include a podiatrist in their healthcare team who can treat any foot conditions that may arise.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

  • Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
  • Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
  • Wear shoes with good arch support
  • Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
  • Elevate feet if you experience swelling
  • Massage your feet
  • Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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

Read more about Foot Care for Pregnant Women
Tuesday, 15 August 2023 00:00

Can Toe Pain Be Treated?

Toe pain can disrupt your daily routine and affect mobility. Common causes for toe pain consist of ingrown toenails, bunions, and gout. An ingrown toenail can develop from wearing shoes that are too tight, or it may happen from trimming the toenails incorrectly. A bunion is described as a bony lump that forms on the side of the big toe and can cause a moderate level of discomfort. Gout is considered to be a form of arthritis that often affects the joints in the big toe, possibly causing debilitating pain. It is crucial to uncover the cause of the toe pain, and this can precede the correct treatment. Resting the affected foot can help reduce existing swelling caused by toe pain. Some toe pain may be alleviated by wearing shoes that fit correctly and performing specific types of stretches that can improve flexibility and reduce pain. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to correct structural issues. It is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine the underlying cause of your toe pain and provide personalized treatment for recovery.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Michael D. Garvin of Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Trauma
  • Sports injury
  • Wearing shoes that are too tight
  • Arthritis
  • Gout
  • Corns and calluses
  • Hammertoe
  • Bunions
  • Blisters
  • Ingrown toenails
  • Sprains
  • Fractures (broken bones)
  • Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

  • Severe pain
  • Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
  • Signs of infection
  • Continued swelling
  • Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Port St. Lucie, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Toe Pain
Monday, 28 August 2017 00:00

Should You and Your Children Go Barefoot?

Having your child play on the playground barefooted may be a good idea, according to some podiatrists and parenting experts. Its proposed benefits include proper foot function, foot development, better balance, and proprioception, which is how the body senses movement. Parents are recommended to try it themselves. Proponents point to studies that show how it strengthens the feet and legs, determining that people are less likely to suffer from conditions like bunions or corns. Going barefoot is still a debated topic and has its own pros and cons. If you or your child going barefoot interests you, be sure to check with a podiatrist to see if it's right for both of you.

Barefoot running has its own share of benefits and disadvantages. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Barefoot Running

The Impact of Barefoot Running

  • Running without shoes changes the motion of your running, as most running is done by landing on the heel of the feet.
  • Running barefoot requires a different way of running; the landing is done on the front part of the feet.

The Advantages of Barefoot Running

  • When running and landing on the front feet, the impact on the feet and ankle is reduced; this can reduce stress injuries.
  • It strengthens muscles in the feet, ankles and lower legs.
  • Balance of the body is improved, and there is a greater sensory input from the feet to the rest of the body.

The Drawbacks of Barefoot Running

  • No protection while running, makes it likely that runners will land on sharp objects and scrapes, bruises and cuts on the feet will result.
  • Blisters may form.
  • Possibility of plantar fascia problems.
  • Risk of getting Achilles tendonitis.

So, what can runners do to make barefoot running safe? It’s best to make a slow transition from running shoes to barefoot running. Once the feet begin to adjust, try walking, then jogging and gradually increasing the distance. Minimalist running shoes may also be an option.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Port St. Lucie, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Barefoot Running
Tuesday, 08 August 2017 00:00

What Are Plantar Warts?

Plantar warts are usually caused by walking around with bare feet in the warmer months. It is very common for warts to appear on the bottom of the foot, however it is possible for them to grow anywhere on the body. They can appear in different shapes, and may even appear in a clustered form. While there are a variety of ways that one can treat warts, the most traditional method is to undergo surgery. Warts can be very painful considering they often appear on the feet which bare most of the body’s weight. If a plantar wart goes untreated, it can become difficult to exercise and perform daily activities.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

  • Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
  • Hard or thick callused spots
  • Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
  • Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

  • Freezing
  • Electric tool removal
  • Laser Treatment
  • Topical Creams (prescription only)
  • Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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

Read more about All About Plantar Warts
Thursday, 10 August 2023 00:00

Are Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?

Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.

Tuesday, 08 August 2023 00:00

The Prevalence of Broken Toes

We may have all stubbed our toes into a piece of furniture or dropped something heavy on our toes and experienced intense pain. A fractured toe, particularly a pinky toe, is a common occurrence, especially because they involve small bones on the edge of the foot and are more prone to injury. When one breaks a toe, it is painful, and the toe will look bruised and swollen. If the ends of the broken bone get displaced, the toe may look crooked. It may be painful to walk with a broken toe, particularly if one breaks their big toe because this toe takes more weight when walking. Most broken toes can be treated at home. The buddy taping method is frequently used, which involves taping the broken toe to the toe next to it for stability. Wearing comfortable, enclosed, and sturdy shoes that do not press against the broken toe should also help. The only way to be certain a toe is broken versus being sprained or strained, is to have an X-ray taken. If a broken toe is associated with another injury or problem, if the big toe is the affected toe, if the skin is broken, or the toe is displaced it is strongly suggested that you see a podiatrist for proper evaluation and treatment.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

  • Swelling
  • Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
  • Stiffness
  • Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

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

Read more about What to Know About a Broken Toe
Page 4 of 50

Connect With Us