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 Landon Bowerbank, DPM of Pioneer Foot and Ankle. 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 Lehi, UT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot exercises are essential for building stronger feet and improving overall mobility. The intrinsic foot muscles, which are located within the foot itself, play an essential role in supporting the arch, stabilizing the toes, and assisting with balance and walking. One effective exercise for strengthening these muscles is the big toe press. This involves pressing the big toe downward while keeping the other toes relaxed, which helps to improve toe strength and control. Another beneficial exercise is the short foot exercise, which focuses on activating the small muscles that support the arch. To perform this exercise, gently contract the muscles under the arch while keeping the toes relaxed and flat. Additionally, toe splay exercises, where the toes are spread as wide as possible and held for a few seconds, can improve flexibility and strength in the toes. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions and guide you on additional exercises that can strengthen your feet.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Landon Bowerbank, DPM from Pioneer Foot and Ankle. our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with our doctor to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

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

Ankle swelling can occur even in the absence of an injury and may be a sign of an underlying health condition. One common cause is poor circulation, which can lead to fluid buildup in the lower extremities. Prolonged sitting or standing, especially for long periods, can also result in ankle swelling. Certain medical conditions, such as heart, liver, or kidney disease, can impair the body's ability to regulate fluid, causing swelling in the ankles and other parts of the body. Additionally, high blood pressure or varicose veins can contribute to fluid retention and swelling in the ankles. Hormonal changes, particularly during pregnancy or menstruation, can also lead to ankle swelling due to changes in fluid balance. Additionally, medications, such as those for high blood pressure or diabetes, may have side effects that result in swollen ankles. If ankle swelling persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer appropriate treatment solutions.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Landon Bowerbank, DPM of Pioneer Foot and Ankle. our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Lehi, UT . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.