Heel pain in one foot can result from several conditions that affect the structures supporting the foot. Plantar fasciitis is a common cause, occurring when the band of tissue along the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed due to overuse or strain. Achilles tendinitis can also lead to pain, particularly at the back of the heel, as a result of repetitive stress on the tendon. A heel spur, which is a bony growth on the heel bone, may develop from prolonged tension and pressure. Nerve compression, such as tarsal tunnel syndrome, can cause sharp or tingling sensations in one heel. Wearing unsupportive footwear or standing for extended periods can also contribute to discomfort. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer appropriate treatment solutions.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Yvonne Umezurike, DPM of Umez Podiatry. 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 offices located in Baltimore, MD and Washington DC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Falls in the bathroom are a common risk, particularly for older adults, and can lead to serious injuries. It is important to make certain adjustments to reduce the likelihood of such falls. Installing grab bars in key areas such as near the toilet, shower, and bathtub provides extra support when standing or sitting. Non-slip rugs or mats can prevent slipping on wet surfaces, while a non-slip shower or bath mat offers additional safety during bathing. Ensuring that the bathroom is well lit, especially at night, can help with visibility. Consider using a shower chair or bench to make bathing safer and easier. Removing any clutter from the floor can also reduce tripping hazards. Falling can seriously impact the feet, causing difficulty in completing daily activities. If your feet or ankles have become injured from falling, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Yvonne Umezurike, DPM from Umez Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Baltimore, MD and Washington DC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle pain during cycling can result from various factors that affect the biomechanics of pedaling. One common cause is an improper ankle angle, which occurs when the foot position during pedaling is too high or low, leading to unnecessary strain on the ankle joint. Another contributor is a saddle set too high, which forces the rider to overextend their legs, putting added pressure on the ankles. Incorrect lateral placement of the cleats can also cause ankle pain, as this misalignment disrupts the natural pedaling motion, leading to excessive stress on the foot and ankle. Ensuring the correct saddle height, optimal ankle angle, and proper cleat placement can significantly reduce the risk of ankle pain while cycling, If you enjoy cycling and have developed ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief tips, and guide you on additional methods to protect your ankles while biking.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Yvonne Umezurike, DPM from Umez Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Baltimore, MD and Washington DC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.