Plantar fasciitis, a common and often debilitating foot condition, can bring your daily life to a halt due to severe heel pain. Fortunately, various treatment options are available to help you regain your comfort and mobility. Conservative measures like rest and taking anti-inflammatory medications can help to alleviate discomfort. Wearing supportive footwear with proper arch support and cushioning can significantly reduce strain on the plantar fascia. Stretching exercises that target the calf muscles and Achilles tendon can also provide relief by loosening tight structures around the foot. Custom orthotics may be recommended to support the arch and distribute pressure evenly. In rare cases, when conservative treatments are not sufficient, medical interventions such as cortico-steroid injections or surgery may be considered. Plantar fasciitis can be challenging, but with the right approach and patience, you can overcome it and return to a pain-free, active lifestyle. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can effectively 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 David J. Borcicky, DPM from Alabama. 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 podiatrist 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 Mobile, AL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your podiatric needs.

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As people age, their bodies undergo various changes, and the feet are no exception. Senior citizens often encounter a range of foot problems that can significantly affect their mobility and overall quality of life. One of the most common issues is arthritis, which can cause pain, stiffness, and reduced joint flexibility. Additionally, decreased blood circulation and thinner skin make seniors more susceptible to foot sores and slow wound healing. To prevent these conditions, seniors must prioritize foot care. This includes wearing comfortable, supportive shoes, maintaining proper hygiene, and inspecting their feet regularly for any signs of problems. Regular exercise can also help improve circulation and reduce the risk of foot ailments. By taking proactive steps to care for their feet, seniors can enjoy greater comfort and mobility. If you have questions about elderly foot care, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can address any concerns you may have.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact David J. Borcicky, DPM from Alabama. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly from taking notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause a general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Mobile, AL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your podiatric needs.

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Bunions, or hallux valgus, is a foot deformity where the big toe tilts toward the second toe, causing a bony lump on the side of the foot. Symptoms include pain, swelling, callused skin, and changes in foot shape. Contrary to popular belief, fashion shoes such as high heels do not directly cause bunions. Bunions are primarily the result of a genetic predisposition and the mechanical structure of the foot. However, wearing shoes that squeeze the forefoot and crowd the toes can worsen an existing condition and lead to pain and joint deformity. Bunions can also develop due to factors such as age, arthritis, or sports activities. Preventing bunions involves choosing sensible, well-fitting footwear with ample toe room. Avoiding pointed shoes and excessive heels can be helpful. Proper footwear, non-surgical treatments, and wearing orthotics are initial choices. Surgery is typically the last option for bunions causing significant pain. This involves removing the bony lump and realigning the big toe, ultimately improving foot function and comfort. If you have a bunion that is causing discomfort, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to have it evaluated and obtain appropriate treatment.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact David J. Borcicky, DPM from Alabama. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of bony growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions is often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while X-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Mobile, AL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your podiatric needs.

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Swollen feet are a common foot condition. There are several causes of swollen feet, and relief may be found when determining the source of the problem. Lifestyle factors may contribute to getting swollen feet, which can range from eating habits to pregnancy. Some patients are afflicted with chronic venous insufficiency, which is a condition that limits blood flow from the feet to the heart. Having swollen feet may also characterize an infection and can be common among diabetic patients. Serious ailments involving blood clots can be known to cause swollen feet and ankles, and immediate medical attention is often sought. Additionally, swollen feet may indicate heart disease, which may cause the blood to back up and pool in the feet and ankles. If you have swollen feet, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact David J. Borcicky, DPM from Alabama. 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 offices located in Mobile, AL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your podiatric needs.

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