Plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel pain, can be a debilitating condition that affects daily activities. However, incorporating specific exercises into your routine can help alleviate symptoms and promote healing. Stretching exercises such as calf stretches and towel stretches target the tight muscles and fascia in the foot, reducing tension and relieving pain. Additionally, rolling a frozen water bottle or a tennis ball under the arch of the foot provides gentle massage and helps decrease inflammation. Strengthening exercises like toe curls and marble pickups improve foot stability and support, reducing strain on the plantar fascia. Additionally, practicing foot arch exercises, such as arch lifts and toe spreads, can help strengthen the arch and alleviate pressure on the plantar fascia. Consistency is key when performing these exercises, and it is important to start slowly and gradually increase intensity to avoid making symptoms worse. If you have plantar fasciitis, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you manage this condition, which often includes suitable exercises and stretches.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Castillo  from Bronx Foot Care. 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 offices located in Bronx, NY Yonkers, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Heel spurs, bony protrusions that form on the underside of the heel bone, are a common source of heel pain for many individuals. There are two primary types of heel spurs, which are known as posterior and inferior. Posterior heel spurs develop at the back of the heel where the Achilles tendon attaches to the bone. They often result from chronic strain or inflammation of the Achilles tendon, commonly seen in athletes or individuals with tight calf muscles. Conversely, inferior heel spurs form underneath the heel, typically near the plantar fascia ligament's attachment point. This type of spur is frequently associated with plantar fasciitis, a condition characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia due to excessive stress or strain. Both types of heel spurs can cause significant discomfort and may require intervention to alleviate pain and restore mobility. Understanding the differences between these two types can aid in accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment approaches for individuals experiencing heel pain. If you have heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can diagnose a heel spur, determine what type it is, and offer correct relief and treatment methods.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Dr. Castillo from Bronx Foot Care. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our offices located in Bronx, NY Yonkers, NY . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Ensuring foot health is essential for overall well-being, as the feet bear the brunt of daily activities and support the body's weight. Several methods can help maintain pain-free feet. Wearing properly fitting shoes with adequate support and cushioning is important in reducing the risk of foot conditions, such as plantar fasciitis and bunions. Regularly inspecting the feet for any signs of irritation, blisters, or abnormalities allows for early detection and prompt treatment of potential issues. Practicing good foot hygiene, including washing and drying the feet thoroughly, helps prevent infections and fungal growth. Engaging in foot exercises, such as toe stretches and ankle rotations, improves flexibility and strengthens the muscles, enhancing foot stability and mobility. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight reduces stress on the feet and lowers the risk of developing foot-related problems. If you are experiencing any type of pain in the feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Castillo from Bronx Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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

Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, is a widespread, yet often overlooked vascular condition affecting millions of Americans. Despite its prevalence, PAD's symptoms can be subtle, leading to under-diagnosis. These symptoms can include pain in the calves during activity, numbness, tingling, and slow-healing sores on the legs or feet. Peripheral artery disease occurs due to the accumulation of plaque in the blood vessels, which restricts blood flow to the lower extremities. Individuals with diabetes face a heightened risk as sores or bruises may not heal properly, leading to the formation of ulcers on the feet and lower legs. Risk factors for PAD include a family history of heart disease and hypertension. High cholesterol, smoking, obesity, and physical inactivity may also be factors. If you believe you have symptoms of PAD, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who is medically trained to manage this condition.

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with Dr. Castillo from Bronx Foot Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

• Claudication (leg pain from walking)
• Numbness in legs
• Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
• Paleness of the skin
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
• Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

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