Did you know that over 87% of people will experience foot pain at some point in their lives? Foot issues are incredibly common and can range from mild discomfort to severe conditions that impact mobility and quality of life.
At Lake Erie Podiatry, we specialize in comprehensive foot and ankle care for patients in Erie, PA, and the surrounding areas. With nearly 25 years of experience, our knowledgeable team, led by Michael Ruiz, DPM, provides expert treatment for a wide range of foot problems. Whether you're dealing with heel pain, bunions, or chronic foot conditions, we take a conservative yet thorough approach to help you find lasting relief. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward living pain-free.
Keep reading to learn about the top five most common foot problems and how they can be treated effectively.
1. Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, affecting nearly 10% of people at some point in their lives. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes, becomes inflamed or irritated.
This condition often manifests as sharp, stabbing pain on the bottom of the foot, particularly noticeable when taking your first steps in the morning or after prolonged periods of rest. It can also cause stiffness and tenderness in the heel area.
Symptoms
- Sharp pain in the bottom of the foot near the heel
- Stiffness and discomfort after long periods of sitting or standing
- Pain that worsens with activity, especially running or jumping
Causes
- Repetitive strain on the plantar fascia, especially in runners and athletes
- Obesity or sudden weight gain that puts extra pressure on the feet
- Improper footwear with poor arch support
Treatment Options
The good news is that plantar fasciitis can often be treated with conservative measures such as:
- Rest and ice to reduce inflammation
- Stretching exercises to loosen the tight plantar fascia
- Wearing supportive shoes or orthotic inserts
If these methods don't provide relief, your doctor may recommend more advanced treatments like corticosteroid injections or shockwave therapy. In rare cases, surgery may be necessary.
2. Heel Spurs
Heel spurs are calcium deposits that form at the bottom of the heel bone, often as a result of plantar fasciitis. They can also develop due to excess strain on the feet, such as running or jumping on hard surfaces.
Heel spurs occur in roughly 1 out of every 10 people and can cause significant discomfort, making it difficult to walk or stand for extended periods.
Symptoms
- Intense stabbing pain in the heel
- Pain that worsens with movement or standing for long periods
- Swelling and inflammation around the affected area
Causes
- Repetitive stress on the muscles and ligaments of the foot
- Strain from high-intensity exercises like running or sports
- Certain medical conditions such as arthritis
Treatment Options
Most cases of heel spurs can be effectively managed with conservative treatments, including:
- Rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relievers may help manage symptoms initially
- Stretching exercises and physical therapy to improve flexibility and reduce pain
- Custom-made orthotic inserts or shoe inserts to provide support and alleviate pressure on the heel
For severe cases, additional options may include corticosteroid injections or physical therapy. In rare instances, surgery might be necessary to remove the heel spur and alleviate chronic pain.
3. Bunions
A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, causing it to angle inward towards the other toes. It can be caused by genetics, improper footwear, or underlying medical conditions such as arthritis. Bunions often cause discomfort and make it difficult to fit into shoes comfortably.
Symptoms
- A visible bump on the side of the big toe joint
- Pain or tenderness in the affected area
- Difficulty moving or flexing the toe
Causes
- Genetics and family history of bunions
- Wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes
- Certain medical conditions, such as arthritis, can cause joint deformities
Treatment Options
Bunion treatment typically involves conservative measures, such as:
- Wearing comfortable, supportive shoes with a wide toe box to alleviate pressure on the bunion
- Custom orthotic inserts or pads to reduce friction and pain
- Bunion splints or night braces to help realign the joint over time
In severe cases, surgery may be recommended to correct the misalignment and relieve pressure on the toe joint.
4. Foot Pain
Foot pain can occur for a variety of reasons, from overuse or injury to underlying medical conditions. It's essential to pay attention to any persistent foot pain and seek treatment if it doesn't improve with rest and self-care measures.
Symptoms
- Pain in the arch, heel, or ball of the foot
- Swelling, tenderness, or redness in the affected area
- Difficulty walking or standing without discomfort
Causes
- Overuse injuries from intense physical activity
- Structural issues like flat feet or high arches
- Medical conditions such as arthritis or diabetes that affect nerve function
Treatment Options
Foot pain relief will depend on the cause. In some cases, rest and self-care measures may be enough to alleviate symptoms. However, if the pain persists or worsens, it's crucial to seek medical attention for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
5. Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of a nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling, and infection. They most commonly affect the big toe and can be caused by wearing shoes that are tight-fitting, improper trimming of nails, or an injury.
Symptoms
- Pain and tenderness around the affected nail
- Redness and swelling in the area
- Drainage or pus if an infection has developed
Causes
- Wearing narrow or ill-fitting shoes that put pressure on the toes
- Cutting toenails too short or at an angle
- Trauma to the nail bed, such as from stubbing your toe
Treatment Options
In mild cases, home remedies such as soaking the foot in warm water and gently pushing back the skin may help relieve symptoms. However, if an ingrown toenail becomes infected or severely painful, your podiatrist may need to remove a portion of the nail and prescribe antibiotics.
When to See a Podiatrist
While many foot problems can be managed with at-home remedies or over-the-counter solutions, some cases require the expertise of Dr. Ruiz. Persistent pain, swelling, or discomfort that interferes with your daily activities should not be ignored
Here are some common signs you should see a podiatrist:
- When foot pain lasts for more than a few days despite rest and treatment.
- Symptoms like redness, warmth, or drainage could indicate infection.
- Progressive conditions like bunions or chronic pain worsen over time.
- Difficulty walking or standing without significant pain.
Why Choose Lake Erie Podiatry for Foot Care?
At Lake Erie Podiatry, we understand how important it is to have healthy, pain-free feet. We are dedicated to providing the highest quality care for all foot and ankle problems using the latest techniques and technology. Our team of experienced podiatrists will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and helps you get back on your feet as soon as possible.
Some reasons why our patients choose us include:
- Proven Expertise: With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Michael Ruiz provides trusted podiatric care to patients across the Erie region.
- Comprehensive Treatment Options: From non-invasive therapies to advanced surgical procedures, we treat a wide range of foot and ankle conditions.
- Patient-Centered Approach: Every treatment plan is customized to fit your lifestyle and unique needs, ensuring optimal results.
- Conservative and Effective Care: We focus on relieving pain with conservative treatments whenever possible, saving surgical options for when they’re truly necessary.
- A Commitment to Your Comfort: Our team prioritizes your comfort and recovery, providing compassionate care every step of the way.
Step Into Relief with Lake Erie Podiatry
Addressing common foot problems early can significantly improve your comfort and mobility. Lake Erie Podiatry offers personalized care and effective solutions to help you manage foot pain and get back on your feet.
Schedule your appointment today with Dr. Michael Ruiz and our experienced team in Erie, PA. Whether you need treatment for bunions, plantar fasciitis, or other foot conditions, we’re here to help you live pain-free.
