Items filtered by date: March 2020

Heel pain is a common ailment among patients who enjoy running, and may also occur as a result of standing for the majority of the day. A common reason why heel pain can happen may be a result of a condition known as plantar fasciitis. This is a condition that affects the plantar fascia, which is located on the bottom of the foot, and connects the toes to the heels. Stress fractures may affect the heel, and generally come from repetitive motions that can include running and jumping activities. The Achilles tendon is located on the bottom of the calf, and links the heel to the calf muscles. Inflammation of this tendon is known as Achilles tendonitis, and can cause severe pain and discomfort. If you are experiencing heel pain for any reason, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible so the correct treatment can begin.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Dr. Thong V. Truong of California. 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 Chico, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The pain that is typically associated with Morton’s neuroma is felt in the ball of the foot. Many patients often describe it as a sharp, burning pain, and it may feel like there is a small stone in your shoe. This condition may develop from wearing shoes that are too tight, or from participating in high impact activities. Additionally, people who have foot conditions that can include bunions and hammertoes, or who are significantly overweight, may also experience Morton’s neuroma. This ailment is defined as growths that form around the nerves between the second and third toes, and when pressure is added, may cause pain and discomfort. A proper diagnosis generally consists of having an MRI taken, as this may be effective in identifying unwanted growths. If you are afflicted with Morton's neuroma, it is strongly suggested that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can treat this condition.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Dr. Thong V. Truong of California. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

The condition that is known as Sever’s disease typically affects children between the ages of eight and fifteen. It generally occurs in children who participate in running and jumping activities, and affects the growth plate in the heel. Common symptoms of this ailment can consist of pain in the heel and arch, and the Achilles tendon may become swollen. If your child is afflicted with this condition, you may notice limping or the choice to avoid putting their heel completely down on the ground as they walk. You can help your child by suggesting the affected foot be elevated, and to insert a heel raise which may be beneficial in providing extra cushioning. It is suggested that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist if you feel your child has Sever’s disease, this way a proper diagnosis can be determined and the correct treatment plan can begin.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Dr. Thong V. Truong from California. 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 Chico, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

One of the most important things elderly people can do is to properly care for their feet. Many seniors can experience uncomfortable foot conditions as a result of a loss of cushioning as the aging process occurs. Research has indicated that one of the most favorable things seniors can do for their feet is wear shoes that fit correctly. The feet will feel better when there is adequate room for the toes to move freely in, and this may be helpful in preventing corns and bunions from developing. Additionally, washing and drying the feet daily followed by using a good moisturizer may be beneficial in preventing cracked heels. If you would like additional information about how elderly patients can care for their feet, please consult with a podiatrist. 

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Thong V. Truong from California. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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

There are a few different types of running injuries that can occur. These often include plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and the ankle can endure a fracture or sprain. The plantar fascia connects the toes to the heel, and may become inflamed if the patient frequently runs. This can be prevented by wearing shoes that fit correctly, and performing stretches that are designed to stretch the Achilles tendon before and after completing a run. If the ankle is twisted while running and becomes sprained, it may help to wrap an elastic bandage around it for additional support. This type of injury may be prevented by incorporating flexibility and strength training exercises into a daily workout routine. If you would like additional information about how to prevent running injuries, please consult with a podiatrist.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Thong V. Truong of California. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

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