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Middlefield (860) 349-8500
Wallingford (203) 294-4977

November 2020

Monday, 30 November 2020 00:00

What Are Shin Splints?

Shin splints, also known as medial tibial stress syndrome, refers to the inflammation of bone tissue, tendons, and muscles around the tibia or shinbone. Shin splints tend to affect athletes, often developing after strenuous physical activity or upon beginning a new fitness program. The main symptom of a shin splint is leg pain. The pain typically begins gradually and may be accompanied by muscle aches. Over time, the leg pain may worsen, eventually leading to shooting pains, tenderness, and swelling. Bruises and small lumps may also begin to appear on the shin. If you suspect that you have shin splints, it is suggested that you seek the care of a podiatrist, who can diagnose and treat this condition.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Dr. Gordon Fosdick of Affiliated Foot Care Center. Our doctor 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
  • Plantar Fasciosis
  • 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 feel free to contact our offices located in Middlefield and Wallingford, CT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries
Published in Blog
Monday, 23 November 2020 00:00

What Can Cause Sever’s Disease?

Irritation of the growth plate on the heel can occur in young and teenaged children from participating in running and jumping activities. This is a condition that is referred to as Sever’s disease, and it can cause severe pain and discomfort. Childhood and adolescence is a time of life when the bones in the leg can grow faster than the muscles and tendons, possibly causing heel conditions. Some of the symptoms that can be associated with Sever’s disease include heel pain after arising in the morning and difficulty walking and running. It is suggested that your child stop the activity that may have caused this condition, and mild relief may be found when specific stretches are performed. If you notice that your child is limping or complaining of heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat Sever’s disease.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Dr. Gordon Fosdick from Affiliated Foot Care Center. Our doctor 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 Middlefield and Wallingford, CT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

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Published in Blog
Saturday, 21 November 2020 00:00

Are Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?

Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.

Published in Blog
Monday, 16 November 2020 00:00

Signs of Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is the result of the plantar fascia, the fibrous band of tissue on the bottom of the foot that connects the toes to the heel, becoming inflamed. A sharp pain inside the heel and at the back of the arch is a key signal of plantar fasciitis. Most of the pain that is experienced from plantar fasciitis gradually worsens over time, and it is usually the worst after prolonged periods of rest. For example, after waking up in the morning the pain is at its worst because the plantar fascia shortens when the foot is at rest. Those who have plantar fasciitis may also experience tenderness in the heel, a tingling or burning sensation in the foot, pain while flexing the foot, and limping. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms that indicate plantar fasciitis, consulting with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan is highly recommended.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Gordon Fosdick  from Affiliated Foot Care Center. 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 Middlefield and Wallingford, CT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Plantar Fasciitis
Published in Blog
Monday, 09 November 2020 00:00

Stretches May Help Heel Spurs

A small growth in the heel bone is often referred to as a heel spur. These are bony protrusions that may cause severe pain and discomfort, and can be associated with foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendon injuries. Some patients find it beneficial to perform specific stretches and exercises that may diminish a portion of the discomfort. An effective stretch consists of raising up on the toes while placing a tennis ball between the ankles, and gently squeezing. Additionally, it may help to roll a tennis ball on the sole of the foot while seated. Mild relief may be found when correct shoes are worn, and it is suggested to refrain from wearing high heels or flip flops. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat heel spurs.

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. Gordon Fosdick from Affiliated Foot Care Center. 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 Middlefield and Wallingford, CT . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

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Published in Blog
Monday, 02 November 2020 00:00

Morning Foot Pain

Foot pain in the morning can indicate the existence of specific conditions that can include plantar fasciitis, plantar warts, or rheumatoid arthritis. Plantar fasciitis may be prevented by wearing shoes that fit correctly, in addition to replacing them approximately every five hundred miles. Plantar warts develop on the sole of the foot, and are caused by a virus. This condition can cause severe pain and discomfort, and relief may be found by implementing immediate treatment. Stiff feet in the morning may be a sign of rheumatoid arthritis, and the pain may continue throughout the day. If you are experiencing any type of foot pain, it is strongly recommended that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can effectively treat and manage foot ailments.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Gordon Fosdick from Affiliated Foot Care Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Bone Spurs
  • Corns
  • Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Ingrown Toenails
  • Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
  • Flat Feet
  • Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
  • And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Read more about Foot Pain
Published in Blog
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