Many people who play pickleball love to win. They may work hard at perfecting their sport and unfortunately, their feet may pay the price. The heel of the foot is commonly affected in pickleball players, which may be indicative of plantar fasciitis or a heel spur. The plantar fascia is a band of tissue that connects the heel to the toes and is found on the bottom of the foot. The plantar fascia may become torn and inflamed from consistently pushing off on the ball of the foot resulting in inflammation. Pickleball is a high-impact sport, and plantar fasciitis is often seen in pickleball players. It can be beneficial to wear shoes that fit correctly and to ensure there is adequate cushioning in the heel area. Additionally, players may choose to wear custom-made orthotics, which may be effective in reducing heel pain. If you have tried these simple measures and still have foot pain, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine the exact cause and offer you various prevention techniques. 

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists  from Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors 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 office located in Brunswick, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

When a senior grows older, it is common for the strength in their feet to be diminished. As a result, they might be likely to fall due to this diminished strength, which might, in turn, further injure the feet. The grocery store is one such place in which a senior might be particularly susceptible to suffering a fall. For example, there might be fluids on the floor that could prove to be especially slippery. Also, it is possible that items and products might have fallen from the shelves, creating tripping hazards for seniors. It can be important to do all you can to prevent falling in the grocery store to protect your feet from injury. One important way to do this is to improve mobility and strength in the feet. If you are a senior, you might contact a podiatrist today for more information on how you can prevent falls and to receive treatment for any foot condition you might have. 

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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