Orthotics are specialized shoe inserts designed to provide support, improve alignment, and relieve foot pain. They can be custom-made or over-the-counter, depending on individual needs. While many people assume orthotics are only for seniors or those with severe foot problems, they benefit a wide range of individuals, from athletes to people who stand for long hours. Conditions like flat feet, plantar fasciitis, bunions, and even knee or back pain can be influenced by foot mechanics. Orthotics help distribute pressure evenly, reducing strain on joints and muscles. They can also prevent further complications by improving posture and gait. Choosing the right orthotics depends on factors such as foot structure, lifestyle, and existing conditions. A podiatrist can assess whether orthotics are necessary and recommend the best option to keep you moving comfortably. If you have foot pain or a specific foot condition, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who can determine if orthotics are right for you.
If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Dr. Thomas Tran from Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C.. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Are Orthotics?
Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.
Over-the-Counter Inserts
Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.
Prescription Orthotics
If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.
If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Frisco, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Ankle foot orthotics are shoe inserts that offer support to control the placement and movement of the ankle, correct deformities, and compensate for weakness. These inserts are used to stabilize the foot and ankle and provide toe clearance during the swing phase of gate.
Athletes often suffer foot problems because their feet are not being supported within the shoe. Ankle and foot orthotics are custom made inserts that alleviate stress on the foot. However custom orthotics should be prescribed by a podiatrist who specializes in customized footwear and orthotics design. These inserts are used by athletes for different reasons. Runners use orthotics to absorb shock at heel contact and to set up the forefoot for push-off. Basketball players wear them to control their forefeet while jumping and running.
The two main types of orthotics are over-the-counter orthotics and custom-made orthotics. To be eligible for custom orthotics, an examination of the foot and ankle will need to be completed. Afterward, both the foot and ankle will need to be casted and fitted for the proper orthotic. When the fitting process is complete, adjustments can be made to make sure everything fits perfectly.
Over the counter orthotics tend to be more popular than custom fit ones. Athletes who have less severe aches and pains in the foot, ankle or lower back area can use the over-the-counter version of orthotics. Unfortunately, over-the-counter orthotics tend to not work in treating severe injuries or ailments. Whenever you suspect you may need an ankle foot orthotic, you should consult with your podiatrist to determine which type of orthotic is right for you.
Ankle sprains can happen to anyone, though athletes are especially prone due to the physical demands of their sports. However, even non-athletes can sprain an ankle by a misstep or wearing high heels. Ankle sprains vary in type and severity. The most common is an inversion sprain, where the foot twists inward, overstretching the outer ankle ligaments. This type of ankle sprain is frequently seen in basketball players and other athletes who jump often. Less common is the eversion sprain, where the foot turns outward, typically affecting gymnasts. The rarest form is the high ankle sprain, which involves the ligaments between the tibia and fibula bones of the lower leg. Sprains are classified into three grades. Grade 1 involves mild stretching and swelling, Grade 2 includes partial ligament tears and moderate swelling and pain, and Grade 3, the most severe, involves complete ligament tears and significant loss of movement. Regardless of the severity, it is important to consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment to prevent further injury. If you suspect you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a thorough evaluation and to explore treatment options.
Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Dr. Thomas Tran from Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C.. 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 are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.
What Are the Symptoms?
Preventing a Sprain
Treatment of a Sprain
In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.
It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Frisco, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
An ankle sprain occurs when one or more ankle ligament gets overly stretched. Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that bind and support the bones and other structures that make up the ankle. In more severe ankle sprains, the ligament(s) tear—either partially or completely—and there may be an audible popping noise at the moment of injury.
Ankle sprains are quite common and can occur when the ankle rolls outwardly (eversion) or inwardly (inversion), causing the ligament(s) to stretch beyond normal limits, or even tear. Falls, twists, or blows to the ankle during sports or other activities can cause this injury, as well as wearing improper footwear, running on uneven surfaces, or having weak ankles.
Depending on the injury’s severity, an ankle sprain will be classified as Grade I, Grade II, or Grade III. Grade I sprains involve ligament(s) being overly stretched but not torn, with symptoms of mild pain, swelling, and ankle instability. There may also be some difficulty bearing weight. A Grade II sprain usually involves a partial tear of the ligament which brings more intensity in these symptoms, along with possible bruising. With a Grade III sprain, the ligament is completely torn, the symptoms are severe, and it may not be possible to put weight on the affected foot at all.
To diagnose and grade an ankle sprain, a podiatrist will perform a physical examination, checking for tenderness and range of motion in the ankle. For more severe sprains, X-rays or other imaging studies may be necessary.
It is vitally important to have an ankle sprain treated properly as improper healing often leads to future ankle sprains and possibly even chronic ankle stability. Treatment for an ankle sprain will vary, depending on its severity, and may include the RICE method (Rest/Ice/Compression/Elevation), physical therapy, bracing, medications, and possibly even surgery to repair a torn ligament. Rehabilitation is very important for the sprain to heal properly and to restore functionality.
If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.
Plantar fasciitis is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot from the heel to the toes. It is often triggered by repetitive stress, wearing improper footwear, or excessive pressure on the feet. Symptoms include sharp heel pain, especially with the first few steps in the morning or after long periods of rest. The pain may improve as you move, but it often returns after prolonged standing or walking. Swelling and tenderness at the heel are also common. Treatment for plantar fasciitis typically involves rest, exercises, and mild pain relievers. A podiatrist may recommend custom orthotics or corticosteroid injections for persistent cases. In rare cases, surgery may be necessary. This type of doctor can help diagnose and guide you through effective treatments for plantar fasciitis. If you are experiencing this condition, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Thomas Tran from Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C.. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.
Prevention
There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Frisco, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
The plantar fascia is a connective tissue in the heel that stretches across the bottom length of your foot. Plantar fasciitis occurs when the connective tissue becomes inflamed, causing heel pain and discomfort during physical activity. Although the condition is completely treatable, traditional methods can take up to a year to start becoming effective.
Plantar fasciitis is caused by a number of everyday activities, so understanding the condition is important for managing and treating it. One of the most common causes of plantar fasciitis is excessive running, especially with improper fitting or non-supportive shoes. Too much exercise can lead to the plantar fascia being overworked and overstretched, which can cause tears in the tissue. Along with improper fitting shoes, pronation, the rolling of the feet inward, is a common cause of plantar fasciitis. If not treated properly, the plantar fascia becomes overstretched and starts to tear, causing inflammation.
Despite the common causes of plantar fasciitis, there are many different treatment options. For less severe cases, conservative home remedies include taking anti-inflammatory drugs to alleviate pain, applying ice packs to the bottom of your foot and heel, slowly stretching and exercising your feet to re-strengthen the tissue, and using orthotic devices are all ways to help manage your plantar fasciitis.
For more severe cases, shockwave therapy has become a common solution for plantar fasciitis. Shockwave therapy can effectively break up the tissue on the bottom of your foot which facilitates healing and regeneration. This fights the chronic pain caused by plantar fasciitis. Even if this doesn’t work, surgery is always a final option. Surgery on the tissue itself can be done to permanently correct the issue and stop the inflammation and pain in your heels.
No matter what the case may be, consulting your podiatrist is the first and best step to recovery. Even the slightest amount of heel pain could be the first stage of plantar fasciitis. Untreated symptoms can lead to the tearing and overstretching of tissue. Because the tearing of tissue can be compounded if it remains ignored, it can evolve into a severe case. The solution is early detection and early treatment. Talk to your podiatrist about the possibilities of plantar fasciitis if you’re experiencing heel pain.
Achilles tendon injuries are common among athletes, particularly those who engage in sports that involve running, jumping, or sudden direction changes. Recovery from such an injury typically begins with rest and elevation to reduce swelling and pain. Stretching and strengthening exercises are designed to gradually restore mobility and prevent further strain. In more severe cases, surgery may be required to repair the tendon. Preventing Achilles tendon injuries involves proper warm-up routines, including stretching and strengthening exercises for the calves and ankles. Wearing appropriate footwear that provides adequate support is also essential. Athletes should gradually increase the intensity of their training to avoid overloading the tendon. If you suspect an Achilles tendon injury for any reason, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer you the correct treatment solutions.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Thomas Tran of Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C.. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is the Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.
What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?
There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.
Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms
Rupture Symptoms
Treatment and Prevention
Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Frisco, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body; it is a tough band of fibrous tissue that stretches from the bones of the heel to the calf muscles. This tendon is what allows us to stand on our toes while running, walking, or jumping, it is common for this tendon to become injured. In severe cases, the Achilles tendon may become partially torn or completely ruptured. However, this tendon is susceptible to injury because of its limited blood supply and the high level of tension it endures.
The people who are more likely to suffer from Achilles tendon injuries are athletes who partake in activities that require them to speed up, slow down, or pivot. Consequently, athletes who engage in running, gymnastics, dance, football, baseball, basketball, or tennis are more likely to suffer from Achilles tendon injuries. Additionally, there are other factors that may make you more prone to this injury. People who wear high heels, have flat feet, tight leg muscles or tendons, or take medicines called glucocorticoids are more likely to have Achilles tendon injuries.
A common symptom of an Achilles tendon injury is pain above the heel that is felt when you stand on your toes. However, if the tendon is ruptured, the pain will be severe, and the area may become swollen and stiff. Other symptoms may be reduced strength in the lower ankle or leg area, and reduced range of motion in the ankle. When the Achilles tendon tears, there is usually a popping sound that occurs along with it. People who have acute tears or ruptures may find walking and standing to be difficult.
If you suspect you have injured your Achilles tendon, you should see your podiatrist to have a physical examination. Your podiatrist will likely conduct a series of tests to diagnose your injury including a “calf-squeeze” test. Calf squeeze tests are performed by first squeezing the calf muscle on the healthy leg. This will pull on the tendon and consequently cause the foot to move. Afterward, the same test will be performed on the injured leg. If the tendon is torn, the foot won’t move because the calf muscle won’t be connected to the foot.
While flat shoes may seem comfortable and stylish, they can contribute to foot pain and discomfort when worn regularly. Flat shoes lack the arch support and cushioning needed to properly distribute weight across the foot. Without adequate support, the foot can become strained, leading to conditions such as plantar fasciitis, heel pain, or metatarsalgia, pain in the ball of the foot. The lack of shock absorption in flat shoes can also cause added pressure on the joints, particularly in the knees and lower back, leading to discomfort and potential long-term pain. Additionally, flat shoes often offer limited stability, which can result in poor posture and alignment. Over time, this imbalance can cause muscle fatigue and soreness. To prevent foot pain, it is important to choose shoes with proper arch support and cushioning. If flat shoes are preferred, consider using orthotic insoles to provide extra support and reduce the risk of injury or discomfort. If you have foot pain from wearing flat shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief solutions, and guide you on proper shoes to wear.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Thomas Tran from Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C.. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
Diagnosis
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Frisco, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Copyright © Southwestern Foot and Ankle Associates, P.C. | Site Map | Nondiscimination | Design by: Podiatry Content Connection
