Plantar fasciitis involves inflammation of the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue that supports the arch along the bottom of the foot. It develops when this tissue becomes overstretched or overused. Causes often include foot arch problems, running long distances, obesity, and a tight Achilles tendon that increases strain on the heel. Symptoms include sharp heel pain, especially with the first steps in the morning, along with stiffness and tenderness. Risk factors include repetitive activity, poor footwear, and limited flexibility. A podiatrist can evaluate the condition, recommend supportive shoes, stretching exercises, and other treatments to reduce discomfort. 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 one of our doctors  from Intercoastal Medical Group. Our doctors 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 offices located in Bradenton, and Sarasota, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot pain while cycling can develop from improper support and positioning during rides. Wearing the right shoes is important because cycling shoes should provide a secure fit and proper stiffness to support efficient movement. Cleat positioning also plays a key role, as misaligned cleats can place excess pressure on certain areas of the foot and lead to discomfort. Insoles can improve arch support and help distribute pressure more evenly, reducing strain during longer rides. Symptoms include numbness, burning, or aching in the feet. Risk factors include poor bike fit, repetitive motion, and inadequate support. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, recommend proper footwear and orthotics, and help you improve alignment. If you enjoy cycling and have developed foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot and ankle conditions.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our doctors of Intercoastal Medical Group. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Bradenton, and Sarasota, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A Lisfranc fracture is a break or injury to the bones and joints in the middle of the foot that support the arch and connect the forefoot to the rest of the foot. Because the symptoms can resemble a sprain, this injury is often overlooked. Pain in the mid-foot, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight are common signs. Bruising on the bottom of the foot may be present. A podiatrist can perform a detailed exam and order imaging tests, such as X-rays or advanced scans, to confirm the diagnosis. Early detection is important to prevent long-term joint damage and loss of stability. Treatment depends on the severity and may include immobilization, supportive devices, or surgery to restore proper alignment. Care focuses on protecting the arch and guiding recovery. If you have symptoms of a Lisfranc fracture, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our doctors from Intercoastal Medical Group. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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

Sever’s disease is a heel condition that affects active growing children, most often between the ages of nine and 14. It develops in the growth plate of the heel, which is a softer area of bone that has not yet hardened. During growth spurts, bones can lengthen faster than muscles and tendons. This can cause the calf muscle and Achilles tendon to tighten and pull on the back of the child’s heel. Repeated stress from running and jumping can irritate this area and lead to pain and swelling. Symptoms include heel pain during activity, limping, or discomfort when rising onto the toes. A podiatrist can examine the foot, assess tendon tightness, and determine the exact cause of the pain. Imaging may be used to rule out other problems. If your active child complains of heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate relief tips. 

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our doctors from Intercoastal Medical Group. Our doctors 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 offices located in Bradenton, and Sarasota, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.