Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition characterized by inflammation or degeneration of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel bone to the toes. It typically causes stabbing pain near the heel, especially with the first steps in the morning or after long periods of rest. This condition often occurs due to repetitive strain or overuse, leading to micro-tears in the plantar fascia. Estimates suggest that approximately ten percent of the population may experience plantar fasciitis at some point in their lives. Treatment under a podiatrist's care may involve a combination of strategies, including rest, stretching exercises, custom-made orthotic devices, wearing supportive footwear, and in some cases, corticosteroid injections. The approach may vary depending on the severity of symptoms and whether the condition is primarily inflammatory or degenerative. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan that is right for you.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Matthew McQuaid, DPM from Lake Mendocino Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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

Preventing slips, trips, and falls is essential for avoiding injuries, including those that are foot-related. Falls account for nearly one-third of non-fatal injuries in the United States, highlighting the importance of proactive measures to mitigate risks. In the home, maintaining good housekeeping practices and promptly addressing spills or leaks can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents. Proper maintenance of flooring and walking surfaces is also essential to prevent slips and trips. Differentiating between slip-resistant footwear for wet or slippery conditions and shoes with proper traction for outdoor activities can further enhance safety. By prioritizing preventive measures, individuals can safeguard against falls and protect their overall well-being. If you have sustained a foot-related injury from a slip, trip, or fall, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment. This medical professional can provide valuable guidance on footwear selection and foot care practices to improve stability and reduce the risk of falls, especially for individuals with underlying foot conditions or mobility issues.

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 Matthew McQuaid, DPM from Lake Mendocino 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 Lakeport and Ukiah, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Buerger's disease is a vascular condition primarily affecting the feet and hands, characterized by inflammation and clotting of small and medium-sized arteries and veins. It is strongly associated with smoking, with tobacco use being a significant risk factor. Symptoms of Buerger's disease, also termed thromboangiitis obliterans, include pain, numbness, tingling, and discoloration in the affected extremities, worsening with activity and improving with rest. Typically afflicting young to middle-aged individuals, especially heavy smokers, diagnosis involves a medical history review, physical examination, and diagnostic tests such as a Doppler ultrasound or angiography. Treatment focuses on smoking cessation, lifestyle adjustments,  and medications to alleviate symptoms. In severe cases, surgical interventions such as bypass surgery or amputation to improve blood flow and prevent tissue damage may be needed. Early diagnosis and intervention are critical in managing Buerger's disease and reducing the risk of complications. If you are experiencing foot pain as described above, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact Matthew McQuaid, DPM of Lake Mendocino Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

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