Ankles play a pivotal role in our daily lives, bearing the weight of our bodies as we move around. However, ankle issues can arise, causing discomfort and hindering mobility. Fortunately, podiatrists specialize in diagnosing and treating various ankle conditions to help patients find relief and improve their quality of life.
Sprains and Strains
One of the most prevalent ankle issues is sprains and strains. Whether from a misstep during physical activity or a simple trip on uneven ground, these injuries can cause pain, swelling, and limited mobility.
Diabetes can be a difficult condition to manage, and its impact on your feet can be serious or even life-threatening. Knowing how to care for your feet when you have diabetes can reduce the incidence of injury or simple problems turning into an amputation.
Footwear
If possible, you should buy shoes from specialty retailers. Not only do they have a wide range of styles, but they often have sizes that are difficult to find and shoes for special foot concerns.
Your heels must carry your body weight whenever you walk, run, dance, or simply stand still for long periods. Even so, you may not pay much attention to these critical parts of your feet until they start to trouble you with chronic pain. If you currently suffer from heel pain, ask your podiatrist to check for the following three possible causes.
1. Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis involves inflammation of the plantar fascia.
When did you last seriously look at your feet? If you are like most people, you probably never look at your feet unless you are wearing shoes or putting on socks. And even then, it's a short glimpse before heading out of the house.
Unfortunately, because most people don't look at their feet, they don't see issues developing. By the time they notice, the issue is an emergency. This isn't the best way to treat the body part responsible for your mobility.
Do you have plantar fasciitis? You aren't alone. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), doctors treat nearly two million Americans annually for this podiatric problem. If you have a recent diagnosis, take a look at the top plantar fasciitis treatment questions answered.
Do You Really Need to Treat Plantar Fasciitis?
As the name implies, plantar fasciitis starts in the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia is a band of tissue that stretches from the heel to the toes.