Plantar fasciitis  develops when the plantar fascia becomes irritated and causes heel pain. This strong band of tissue runs along the bottom of the foot and helps support the arch. Symptoms often include sharp heel pain with the first steps after waking or sitting. Some people also notice aching after standing or walking for long periods.

Several factors can contribute to plantar fasciitis. Wearing unsupportive footwear every day may place repeated stress on the plantar fascia. Shoes with worn soles, poor arch support, or limited cushioning may not provide enough protection during daily activities. Tight shoes can also affect comfort and walking patterns. Other risk factors include increased activity, prolonged standing, and certain foot structures.

Routine footwear can have a long-term impact when it does not match your foot's needs. Continually wearing shoes that lack support may contribute to repeated strain and discomfort. Changing shoes regularly and choosing comfortable footwear with appropriate support helps reduce unnecessary stress. A podiatrist can also evaluate your foot structure, walking pattern, and symptoms. Treatment may include activity changes, supportive footwear, or custom orthotics, when appropriate.

When plantar fasciitis causes ongoing pain, a podiatrist will first examine the foot and discuss your symptoms and daily activities. Imaging tests may be recommended when another condition needs to be ruled out. Treatment focuses on reducing irritation and supporting healing. Follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to monitor progress and adjust care as needed. Early attention can help prevent persistent heel pain from interfering with daily life. This can make returning to activities more manageable and comfortable. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately 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 Theresa Brown, DPM  from Essie M.B. Smith Foot Clinic. 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 Montgomery, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot blisters are fluid-filled pockets that form under the skin and can make every step uncomfortable. Friction is a frequent cause, especially when shoes are too tight or rub the same area repeatedly. The clear liquid inside most blisters is called serum, which comes from nearby tissues after the skin is injured. Blood blisters contain blood instead. Friction blisters are usually painful and can interfere with walking, exercise, or work. Although many blisters result from burns, allergies and infections can also cause blistering on the skin.

The appearance and symptoms of a blister can offer clues about its cause. Most blisters are round or oval and contain fluid beneath the skin. Some are painful, while others can itch or cause little discomfort. Blisters linked to infection can look different and may occur with other symptoms. Increasing redness, swelling, or worsening pain around a blister can signal infection. Oozing blood or pus is another warning sign. Blisters with an unknown cause or those that are very painful deserve professional evaluation, especially when they keep returning.

A podiatrist can examine foot blisters to determine what is causing them and whether infection is present. The evaluation can also identify pressure points and areas where shoes are rubbing the skin. For a large or painful blister, a podiatrist can drain it safely and protect the area from infection. A podiatrist can also recommend shoe changes or padding to reduce repeated friction and pressure. Patients with recurring blisters can benefit from an evaluation of foot structure and how their shoes fit. Addressing the source of repeated rubbing can help protect vulnerable areas of skin. If you have symptoms of blisters, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, 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.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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 cups are cushioned inserts designed to fit around the heel and provide support during standing and walking. They can absorb impact and reduce pressure on sensitive areas beneath the heel. Heel cups may help people experiencing heel pain related to strain, prolonged standing, or increased activity. They fit inside shoes and work with supportive footwear. Because heel pain has several causes, identifying the source is important before choosing treatment.

Heel cups may be recommended for conditions that cause heel discomfort. They can provide cushioning for plantar fasciitis, heel fat pad irritation, and impact-related soreness. Symptoms may include aching, tenderness, or pain during the first steps of the day. Risk factors include prolonged standing, increased activity, and repeated stress. Heel cups may improve comfort, but they do not correct every condition.

A podiatrist can determine whether heel cups are appropriate by reviewing symptoms and examining the feet. The evaluation may include checking heel tenderness, foot alignment, and shoe wear. If heel cups are recommended, the podiatrist can help select the proper size. This foot doctor may suggest wearing supportive shoes or conservative care based on the cause. Follow-up can determine whether the heel cup is improving comfort or whether additional treatment is needed.

Properly fitted heel cups may make walking and standing more comfortable when heel pain is related to pressure or impact. They should fit securely without creating pressure points. Persistent pain should not be ignored when symptoms interfere with activities or continue despite supportive care. Podiatric evaluation can help guide foot care. If you have heel pain and are interested in learning about heel cups for relief, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can discuss the benefits of this type of orthotic with you.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Theresa Brown, DPM from Essie M.B. Smith Foot Clinic. 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 feel free to contact our office located in Montgomery, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that causes one of the smaller toes to bend downward at the middle joint instead of lying flat. The condition usually affects the second toe, although it can involve other toes. At first, the toe may still move freely. As the condition progresses, the joint can become stiff and more difficult to straighten. People with hammertoe frequently notice pain, swelling, and irritation where the bent toe rubs against shoes. Corns and calluses can also develop because of repeated pressure. A podiatrist carefully examines the affected toe, evaluates its flexibility, and determines whether nearby joints are also involved. X-rays help reveal changes in bone alignment and assist with planning the most appropriate treatment.

Several factors can contribute to hammertoe. Muscle imbalance is one of the most common causes. This happens when the muscles and tendons that control the toe no longer work together properly, causing the toe to remain in a bent position. Arthritis, foot injuries, and inherited foot structure can also increase the risk of developing hammertoe. Wearing shoes that do not fit properly can place added pressure on the toes and make the deformity worse. As the condition advances, walking can become uncomfortable because the bent toe no longer rests naturally against the ground. A podiatrist evaluates the severity of the deformity and checks for joint stiffness, pain, and changes in foot function.

Treatment depends on how flexible the toe remains and how much the deformity affects daily activities. A podiatrist develops a treatment plan that improves comfort, restores function, and helps prevent further changes in toe alignment. Care includes custom orthotics, protective padding, and careful monitoring of the affected joints. Custom orthotics are specially made shoe inserts that improve foot support and reduce pressure on the toes. When the toe becomes rigid or the deformity is severe, surgery can straighten the toe and improve its position. If you have symptoms of hammertoe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effecitve relief, treatment and management tips. 

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Theresa Brown, DPM from Essie M.B. Smith Foot Clinic. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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.

Sever’s disease causes heel pain in growing children, especially those who are physically active. It usually develops between ages eight and 14, when the heel bone is going through a period of growth. The condition affects the growth area where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel bone. This area is still developing from cartilage into mature bone. Repeated stress from running or jumping can irritate it and cause pain. Symptoms include heel pain with exercise, increased pain after activity, and limping. Some children also walk on their toes to reduce pressure on the painful heel. One or both heels can be affected.

Growth and activity levels can influence the development of Sever’s disease. A child can experience symptoms after increasing the amount or intensity of sports participation. Starting a new sport can also place different demands on the heel. Activities that involve frequent running and jumping are strongly linked with symptoms. Changes in height and weight can contribute as the body develops. Foot structure can play a role as well. Children with flat-foot posture can have a slightly greater risk. Certain shoes, especially those with a low heel, can place added strain on the growth area by increasing tension through the Achilles tendon.

A podiatrist can evaluate heel pain by discussing symptoms and examining the child’s feet and legs. X-rays are generally not used to diagnose Sever’s disease, although imaging can sometimes help rule out another cause of heel pain. Treatment focuses on reducing pain while managing activity appropriately. A podiatrist can recommend activity changes, heel raises, or custom orthotics based on the child’s needs. The condition rarely causes long-term problems once the growth area matures. If your active child has symptoms of Sever’s disease, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Theresa Brown, DPM from Essie M.B. Smith Foot Clinic. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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.

A gout flare can cause sudden, severe pain that is difficult to ignore. It usually affects one joint, with the base of the big toe being a frequent location. The ankle or another toe joint can also become painful. The area may look red and swollen. It can also feel warm or extremely tender. Even pressure from a sock or bedsheet can hurt. A flare can begin at night and intensify within hours. Without proper care, repeated attacks can damage joints and nearby bone. 

Gout develops when excess uric acid forms sharp crystals inside a joint. The kidneys usually remove uric acid, a natural waste product. A flare begins when the immune system reacts to these crystals, causing intense inflammation. Risk factors include kidney disease, family history, and certain health conditions. Alcohol intake, some foods, and dehydration can also contribute to an attack. Prompt evaluation is important. A podiatrist can examine the foot and review the patient’s medical history. Testing can confirm the cause and rule out other problems, such as an infection or another type of arthritis. 

Treatment from a podiatrist focuses on easing the current flare and reducing future attacks. The podiatrist can assess the painful joint and monitor changes. Recommendations can reduce pressure on the joint and guide the choice of suitable shoes. Custom orthotics can help when gout has changed foot structure or walking patterns. Patients with repeated flares can receive regular checks for joint damage, skin problems, and tophi. Deposits called tophi form when uric acid crystals collect beneath the skin and cause pain. Early care matters because untreated gout can become lasting arthritis. A podiatrist can explain warning signs that require urgent attention and create a follow-up plan. If you have symptoms of gout in the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for help in managing this painful condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Theresa Brown, DPM from Essie M.B. Smith Foot Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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.

A ganglion cyst is a non-cancerous, fluid-filled lump that can develop near a joint or tendon. Ganglion cysts on the foot may form around the ankle, top of the foot, or near a joint where connective tissues are present. The cyst is usually filled with a thick, jelly-like fluid, and may feel soft or firm when touched. Symptoms may include a visible bump, tenderness, or aching. Irritation while walking may occur. The size of a cyst can change over time and may become more noticeable after activity.

The exact cause of a ganglion cyst is not always known. These cysts may develop when fluid from a joint or tendon sheath collects and forms a sac beneath the skin. Repeated stress or irritation around a joint may contribute to their development. Risk factors can include previous foot injuries, repetitive activity, and conditions that place ongoing stress on the feet. Some people develop a cyst without an obvious injury or triggering event. Because other lumps can look similar, a new growth should be evaluated rather than assumed to be a ganglion cyst.

A podiatrist can examine the foot and determine whether a ganglion cyst is responsible for the lump and symptoms. The evaluation may include reviewing medical history, examining the size and location of the cyst, and checking nearby joints and tendons. Imaging such as an ultrasound or an MRI scan may be recommended when the diagnosis is uncertain. When symptoms interfere with footwear or walking footwear changes may be suggested. Aspiration or surgical removal may be needed, depending on the cyst and the patient’s needs.

Ganglion cysts are usually benign, but persistent growth, pain, or changes in the surrounding skin deserve professional attention. A podiatrist can explain the available treatment options and help determine whether intervention is necessary. If you have a ganglion cyst on your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions.

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.

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet. Despite its name, a person does not have to be an athlete to develop it. The fungus grows well in warm, damp places and can spread through contact with contaminated surfaces. Risk factors include walking barefoot in locker rooms, showers, or swimming-pool areas. Sharing socks or towels with an infected person can also spread the fungus. Tight-fitting, closed-toe shoes and sweaty feet can create conditions that allow the infection to grow. Symptoms include itching, stinging, and burning between the toes or on the soles.

The skin affected by athlete’s foot can crack, peel, or develop itchy blisters. The infection can also spread beyond the original area. Touching or scratching infected skin can transfer the fungus to the hands. The fungus can spread to the toenails, where the infection can become harder to treat. Because several skin problems can look similar, an accurate diagnosis is important before treatment begins. A podiatrist can examine the skin closely and determine whether the symptoms are caused by athlete’s foot or another foot condition.

A podiatrist can recommend treatment based on the location and severity of the infection. Treatment includes antifungal products that target the fungus and help clear the affected skin. More severe infections can require stronger antifungal medication. A podiatrist can also check for toenail involvement and other complications that could make treatment more difficult. Patients with diabetes or circulation problems can benefit from prompt evaluation because foot infections can create added concerns. Athlete’s foot that persists or keeps returning deserves professional attention. Proper diagnosis helps ensure that treatment targets the actual cause of the symptoms. If you have symptoms of athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Theresa Brown, DPM from Essie M.B. Smith Foot Clinic. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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.