Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain that often appears with the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. The pain is typically sharp and located at the bottom of the heel, sometimes easing as the foot warms up but returning after long activity. It may look normal from the outside, though some patients notice mild swelling or tightness along the arch. Causes include overuse, standing for long periods, improper footwear, tight calf muscles, or changes in activity level. A podiatrist begins with a careful exam and may use imaging to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment includes supportive footwear, custom orthotics, and targeted exercises to stretch and strengthen the plantar fascia. Additional options like anti-inflammatory care or injections may be considered if symptoms persist. If you have plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Richard DiBacco, DPM  from Podiatry Associates of Erie, Inc.. 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 one of our offices located in Erie and Meadville, PA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Toenail fungus affects the nail and the skin beneath it. It begins when fungi enter through small cracks and slowly spread under the nail surface, leading to infection. Symptoms often include thickened, brittle, and yellow discolored nails that may become difficult to trim. Risk factors include older age, exposure to someone with the infection, and warm, moist environments that support fungal growth. Without treatment, the condition can worsen and affect multiple nails. Early recognition and care are important to maintain healthy, strong nails and prevent further spread. If you have symptoms of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition, which may include prescribed medication.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Richard DiBacco, DPM of Podiatry Associates of Erie, Inc.. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Erie and Meadville, PA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Haglund’s deformity is a bony enlargement on the back of the heel where the Achilles tendon attaches. This bump can become irritated when it rubs against stiff shoes, especially those with rigid backs such as dress shoes, pumps, or skates. People often notice redness, swelling, or a tender bump on the back of the heel. The area may feel sore when walking, wearing certain shoes, or after activity. Some patients also develop inflammation of the nearby bursa, which adds to the discomfort and swelling. Causes include foot structure, tight Achilles tendons, and repeated friction from footwear. A podiatrist can diagnose Haglund’s deformity by examining the heel and reviewing symptoms, sometimes confirming the condition with X-rays. Treatment may begin with shoe changes, heel lifts, protective padding, and targeted exercises to reduce tension on the tendon. In some cases, custom orthotics, anti-inflammatory care, or minor procedures may be recommended. If you think you have Haglund’s deformity, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Richard DiBacco, DPM of Podiatry Associates of Erie, Inc.. Our doctor 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 one of our offices located in Erie and Meadville, PA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

High heels may look stylish, but they can place heavy strain on the feet and the rest of the body. When the heel is lifted, body weight shifts forward onto the ball of the foot. This added pressure can lead to pain, bunions, curled toes, thickened skin, and burning sensations in the front of the foot. The higher the heel, the greater the stress. High heels also change posture. To stay balanced, the lower back arches more, the knees stay bent, and the calf muscles tighten. Over time, this unnatural position can cause soreness in the feet, knees, hips, and back. Walking in narrow heels can affect balance and increase the risk of ankle sprains or falls. Wearing high heels often may even change the shape of the foot. A podiatrist can examine your feet, identify damage caused by high heels, and provide treatment to relieve pain and prevent further problems. If you have foot pain after wearing high heels, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Richard DiBacco, DPM from Podiatry Associates of Erie, Inc.. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Erie and Meadville, PA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.