Foot pain affects many people due to the intricate structure of the foot and the stress it endures during daily activities. Bunions, caused by bone misalignment, can lead to discomfort and changes in foot shape. Deformities like claw toes and hammertoes, often linked to tight shoes or imbalanced muscles, can result in painful corns or calluses. Arthritis in the toes and ankles may cause stiffness and reduced mobility, with age and weight being contributing factors. Fractures from injuries, such as falls or missteps, and sprains from ligament damage can also be significant sources of pain. Conditions like athlete's foot, fungal infections, and nerve issues such as peripheral neuropathy, which causes tingling or burning sensations are other potential concerns. A podiatrist can evaluate any of these conditions and offer treatment ranging from orthotics for support to surgery, in more severe cases. If you have foot problems, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Theresa Brown, DPM from Essie M.B. Smith Foot Clinic. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Heel pain is a common issue that can be caused by several underlying conditions. One of the most frequent causes is plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. This condition often results from overuse, improper footwear, or excessive pressure on the feet. Another cause of heel pain is Achilles tendinitis, which occurs when the tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel becomes inflamed. Heel spurs, which are calcium deposits on the heel bone, can also lead to pain. Many people experience increased discomfort in the morning because the tissues in the foot tighten overnight. When stepping out of bed, the sudden pressure can strain these stiff tissues, causing sharp pain. As the day progresses and the foot warms up, the pain may decrease, but it can return after long periods of standing or walking. If you have heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer appropriate relief and treatment remedies.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Theresa Brown, DPM of Essie M.B. Smith Foot Clinic. 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 Montgomery, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Corns, calluses, and plantar warts are common foot conditions, but they have distinct causes, symptoms, and treatments. Corns are thickened areas of skin that develop on pressure points, often on the toes or soles, due to friction from wearing ill-fitting shoes or repetitive pressure. They can be painful, especially when walking. Plantar warts are caused by a viral infection, the human papillomavirus, or HPV, and typically appear as rough, raised growths on the bottom of the feet. Plantar warts are contagious and may cause discomfort when pressure is applied. Treatment for a plantar wart may involve freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen, laser treatments, or minor surgery to remove it. To treat a corn, start by addressing the cause of friction and pressure, such as wearing properly fitting shoes and using inserts or pads for cushioning. If a painful corn persists it can be safely removed by a podiatrist. If you have either of these ailments, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Theresa Brown, DPM of Essie M.B. Smith Foot Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

• Well-fitting socks
• Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
• Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctor to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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