Rucking is a form of exercise that involves walking long distances with a weighted backpack, and it can place a heavy burden on the feet and ankles. The added weight increases friction, which often causes blisters and painful calluses. Stress on the arch may lead to plantar fasciitis, a condition where the tissue at the bottom of the foot becomes irritated and sore. Long marches in boots that do not fit well can also damage toenails, sometimes causing them to turn black or fall off. Hot spots and swelling are common after repeated pressure, and, in more serious cases, stress fractures may develop in the bones of the feet. A podiatrist can conduct an exam, provide treatment to reduce foot pain from rucking, and recommend options including surgery, if needed. If you have any of these symptoms after strenuous activities, such as rucking, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment solutions.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Ocotillo Foot and Ankle Centers. Our doctors 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
• 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 contact our offices located in Chandler, and Phoenix, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Heel pain is a frequent concern that can have several different sources. Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common, creating sharp discomfort in the bottom of the heel, especially with the first steps in the morning. Heel spurs may also be involved, as bony growths that develop along the heel bone can irritate nearby tissue. Pain at the back of the heel may signal Achilles tendonitis, often caused by tight calf muscles or repetitive strain. Less frequent, but possible, causes include stress fractures, nerve irritation, or bursitis. Footwear that lacks support, extra body weight, and high impact activity can increase the likelihood of these issues. Since treatment depends on the exact cause, professional evaluation is important. If heel pain is interfering with your daily life, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate care.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Ocotillo Foot and Ankle Centers. Our doctors 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 feel free to contact our offices located in Chandler, and Phoenix, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common reasons people experience heel pain. It develops when the thick band of tissue that connects the heel to the toes becomes irritated or inflamed. Many people notice sharp pain in the morning with their first steps, which may ease as the day goes on, but often returns after long periods of standing or activity. Risk factors include wearing unsupportive shoes, spending long hours on hard surfaces, and having flat feet or very high arches. Stretching exercises, wearing proper footwear, and sometimes custom orthotics can help relieve the strain on the plantar fascia. Left untreated, the discomfort can become persistent and interfere with daily activities. If heel pain is affecting your mobility, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist to discuss appropriate treatment options.

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 one of our podiatrists from Ocotillo Foot and Ankle Centers. Our doctors 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 Chandler, and Phoenix, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A podiatrist is a medical specialist trained to diagnose and treat conditions of the foot, ankle, and lower leg. Podiatrists care for patients of all ages and offer specialties such as general podiatry, sports medicine, and pediatric foot care. Common issues include heel pain, ingrown toenails, bunions, flat feet, and sports injuries. Symptoms may include swelling, pain while walking, stiffness, or changes in foot structure or skin. Causes can range from genetics and poor footwear to overuse, injury, or underlying conditions like diabetes and arthritis. These problems may feel like dull aches, sharp pains, or persistent discomfort and can affect daily movement and quality of life. A podiatrist can perform a physical examination, order imaging if needed,  provide custom orthotics, perform minor procedures, or suggest preventive care. Pediatric podiatrists address growing feet, while sports podiatrists treat athletic injuries. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to keep your feet healthy and active.

If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact one of our podiatrists from Ocotillo Foot and Ankle Centers. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.

What Do Podiatrists Do?

On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:

• Diagnose foot ailments such as ulcers, tumors, fractures, etc.
• Use innovative methods to treat conditions
• Use corrective orthotics, casts, and strappings to correct deformities
• Correct walking patterns and balance
• Provide individual consultations to patients

It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.

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