Plantar fasciitis is one of the most frequent causes of heel discomfort and develops when the strong band of tissue along the bottom of the foot becomes irritated or overstressed. This tissue, called the plantar fascia, supports the arch and helps absorb the force created during walking and standing. When the fascia becomes strained, tiny tears can develop that lead to inflammation and heel pain. Many people first notice discomfort when stepping out of bed in the morning or after sitting for a long period. The pain may feel sharp at the heel and sometimes spreads across the bottom of the foot. Causes include overuse, tight calf muscles, flat feet, high arches, or shoes that lack proper support. A podiatrist can evaluate the foot structure, identify the source of the irritation, and guide treatment. Care may include supportive footwear, custom orthotics, anti-inflammatory care, and targeted exercises to ease tension. 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 Vrunda Dalal, DPM  from Sole Focus Foot and Ankle. 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 our office located in Marlton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cracked heels develop when the skin on the heel becomes dry, thickened, and less flexible, leading to splitting of the skin. Several factors may contribute to this condition, including itching from irritated skin, endocrine disease that affects skin health, improper hygiene, and a lack of essential vitamins and minerals that support healthy tissue. Risk factors include prolonged standing, wearing open-backed footwear, excess body weight, and poor skin care habits. Symptoms include dry skin, visible cracks, discomfort while walking, and sometimes redness or inflammation surrounding the heel area. Without proper care, cracks may deepen and become painful. A podiatrist can evaluate the skin, remove thickened tissue, recommend moisturizing treatment, and provide guidance for proper foot care. If you have cracked heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Vrunda Dalal, DPM from Sole Focus Foot and Ankle. our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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

An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments, which are strong bands of tissue that connect bones, are stretched or torn after the foot rolls or twists. Symptoms often include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. Recovery time depends on severity, ranging from a few weeks for mild ligament stretching to several months for more serious tears. Exercise plays a key role in proper long-term healing. Early movement exercises help restore range of motion, which means how far and smoothly the joint can move. As healing progresses, strengthening exercises work to rebuild muscle support around the ankle, allowing it to move up and down. Balance training is also important to improve stability and prevent the ankle from repeatedly giving out, known as chronic ankle instability. A podiatrist can evaluate the sprain, order imaging to rule out fractures, provide bracing, and design a structured rehabilitation plan. If you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Vrunda Dalal, DPM from Sole Focus Foot and Ankle. our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Marlton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.