Plantar fasciitis, a prevalent foot condition, can cast a shadow on even the most active lifestyles. It occurs when the plantar fascia, which is defined as the ligament connecting the heel bone to the toes, becomes inflamed or strained. There are various reasons for plantar fasciitis, often stemming from repetitive stress, poor footwear choices, obesity, or abnormal foot structures, such as flat feet. Symptoms encompass sharp heel pain, especially during the first steps in the morning or after periods of inactivity. As painful as this condition can be, there are various options that can be implemented. Treatment methods can range from rest, and taking over-the-counter pain medications to targeted exercises that stretch and strengthen the plantar fascia. In more severe cases, podiatrists may recommend custom orthotics or corticosteroid injections. With proper care and attention, managing plantar fasciitis can help individuals step back into a life unhindered by foot discomfort. If you have developed plantar fasciitis, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can determine what the best course of treatment is for you.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Michael Tomey, DPM  from Cary Foot & Ankle Specialists. 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 Cary, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Arthritis can affect the joints in the ankles, feet, and toes, leading to symptoms such as pain, swelling, and stiffness. It can also cause changes in the shape of the feet, making it challenging to find appropriate footwear. Some ways to manage foot arthritis include exercise to maintain joint mobility, weight management if necessary to help reduce pressure on the feet, and properly fitted and supportive footwear to protect the feet. There are various medical treatments available to manage arthritis-related foot pain and stiffness. These may include medications, heat and cold therapy, topical creams, and dietary supplements. If you have discomfort from foot arthritis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an examination and treatment options to help you get back to comfortable functioning as soon as possible.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Michael Tomey, DPM from Cary Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Cary, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Cycling offers numerous health benefits, including cardiovascular improvement, enhanced joint mobility, and strengthened leg muscles. However, cycling without the proper footwear also can strain your lower limbs. While regular running shoes are suitable for occasional cyclists, dedicated cyclists who spend hours daily on the road or in the gym require specialized cycling shoes. Orthotics can play a pivotal role in boosting cycling performance as they can help to increase pedal efficiency, enhance power output, and improve foot stability. They also can help to reduce foot fatigue, improve arch support, provide better metatarsal padding, and offer relief from plantar fascial tension. Custom-made shoe insoles are an important consideration for cycling enthusiasts with flat feet, supination, pronation issues, or specific conditions like plantar fasciitis. A podiatrist can make a set of orthotics designed to fit your unique foot structure, using custom molds that mirror the exact shape of the foot. For help with custom shoe inserts made specifically for cycling shoes, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Michael Tomey, DPM from Cary Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Cary, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle ulcers are open sores on the skin. They are slow to heal, and they can keep returning. The three types of ankle ulcers are venous stasis, diabetic, and arterial ulcers. Venous stasis ulcers are the most common, primarily affecting the ankles. They result from venous hypertension or chronic venous insufficiency, leading to decreased blood flow and oxygen to the tissue and causing damage and ulcer formation. Risk factors include leg swelling, blood clots, varicose veins, inflammatory diseases, and a family history of ulcers. Symptoms may include pain, burning, itching, redness, and the skin may be swollen or discolored. Diagnosis involves a medical history, symptom analysis, and possible tissue sampling. Treatments include compression therapy, medication, and wound care. It is important to keep the ulcer clean and change the dressing as instructed. Prevention of such ulcers involves leg elevation, limiting prolonged standing or sitting, and maintenance of good overall health. If you suffer from ankle ulcers, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and prompt treatment.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Michael Tomey, DPM from Cary Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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

Ballet dancers' feet are an extraordinary sight, both stunning and inspiring. Behind the scenes, these dancers endure challenges that shape their amazing performances. The long hours of practice and the tight ballet shoes they wear can be tough on their feet. Ballet dancers walk on their tiptoes, and this constant friction can lead to blisters and calluses. Yet, they persist, driven by their passion for dance. Ballet dancers often maintain proper foot care by soaking their feet in warm baths and using special pads and bandages. These brave dancers understand that their feet are their foundation. They work hard to keep them strong and healthy, visiting podiatrists when needed. Their dedication and talent shine through each graceful move they make, leaving the world in awe of their commitment to the art of ballet. If you are interested in pursuing this type of dance, it is suggested that you include a podiatrist as one of your healthcare professionals.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Michael Tomey, DPM from Cary Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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