The foot condition known as plantar fibromatosis is rare. A plantar fibroma is a fibrous, hardened area in the shape of a circle that develops in the arch. It is a benign growth, and it may form in both feet. Many patients don't report pain unless they walk barefoot or their shoe pushes against it. A plantar fibroma may occur if an injury has happened to the sole or from the consistent pressure the feet endure while running. Research has indicated it may happen from taking certain medications, such as anti-seizure medicine, beta-blockers, or excessive doses of vitamin C. An MRI is generally performed that can correctly diagnose a plantar fibroma and may be followed with a biopsy. Mild relief may be found when custom-made orthotics are worn, in addition to taking anti-inflammatory medication. If you have discovered a lump on the sole of your foot, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat a plantar fibroma.

A plantar fibroma may disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Associates in Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Plantar Fibroma

A plantar fibroma is a fibrous knot in the arch of the foot. It is embedded in the plantar fascia which is a band of tissue that extends from the heel to the toes along the bottom of the foot. There can be multiple plantar fibromas in the feet at the same time. There are no known causes for this condition. If you have a plantar fibroma, there will be a bump in the arch of your foot that cannot be missed. Any associated pain is most often due to a shoe rubbing against the nodule. Non-surgical options, such as steroid injections, physical therapy, and orthotics should be tried first. Surgery is a last resort and is the only thing that will remove a plantar fibroma entirely. Consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and to determine the treatment regimen that is right for you.

What Causes a Plantar Fibroma?

While there are no specific causes identified, a plantar fibroma can possibly come from genetic predisposition or the formation of scar tissue that forms from healing the tears in the plantar fascia.

What Are the Symptoms of a Plantar Fibroma?

There will be a noticeable lump in the arch of the foot that may or may not cause pain. If pain is felt, it is typically because a shoe is rubbing up against the lump or when walking or standing barefoot.

Treatment and Prevention

A plantar fibroma will not disappear without treatment, but it can get smaller and be a non-issue. If pain persists, a podiatrist examines the foot and when the arch of the foot is pressed, pain can be felt down to the toes. An MRI or biopsy might be performed to help diagnose or evaluate the plantar fibroma. The following non-surgical options are generally enough to reduce the size and pain of these nodules:

• Steroid injections
• Orthotics
• Physical therapy to help apply anti-inflammatory creams on the bump 

Surgery is considered if the mass increases in size and the patient continues to feel pain after non-surgical methods are tried.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Many parents are interested in knowing how fast their child’s feet grow. It is common for toddlers to have new shoes every few months that can accommodate their growing feet. Research has indicated the feet grow approximately three-quarters of an inch per year during the ages of one and three, and will increase to half an inch between ages three and six. Some parents find it helpful for their child to wear open-toe shoes, such as sandals, which can give the toes adequate room to move freely. It is beneficial that the first pair of shoes is purchased when walking begins outside, which can protect the feet from various surfaces. Until that time, the overall foot can become stronger as the child walks barefoot while indoors. If you would like additional information about when and what type of shoes to purchase for your child, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can help you with the knowledge you are seeking.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact one of our podiatrists of Associates in Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Different types of people can be more susceptible than others to developing a foot condition that is known as plantar fasciitis, due to the nature of their employment or lifestyle. For example, teachers might be one such group. There are many reasons for this. Specifically, teachers, especially elementary school teachers, spend a significant amount of the day on their feet. Teachers often walk around the classroom to check on students and spend a great deal of time standing at the board to instruct. As a result of all of this strain on the feet, the teacher may aggravate the plantar fascia, the band of tissue that runs from the toes to the heel in the sole of the foot, and plantar fasciitis can develop. This condition brings with it pain and inflammation, especially felt in the heel. If you are a teacher and are experiencing such pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today for immediate attention.

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 Associates in Podiatry. 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 offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

High heels are a popular shoe for many women to wear. They are available in a variety of colors and can add style to any wardrobe. Despite the attraction of wearing high heels, research has shown they may cause certain foot conditions when frequently worn. This may be a result of limited cushioning in the heel area as well as inadequate room for the toes to move freely in. Excess friction may result in corns which can be quite painful. Toenail fungus may happen from the consistent pressure the toes endure from lack of room in the top of the shoe. Additional foot conditions that can happen from wearing high heels may include bunions, hammertoe, and Morton’s neuroma. Wearing this type of shoe may cause ankle instability and may lead to spraining or fracturing an ankle. If you would like more information about the effects that high heels may have on the feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Associates in Podiatry. Our doctors 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 our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A toenail infection may be caused by a fungus, and this condition is known as onychomycosis. This fungus is extremely contagious and thrives in moist, warm environments. Many people come in contact with a fungus while at public swimming pools and gym locker rooms. The risk of developing a toenail fungus infection increases if you have sweaty feet, wear closed-toed shoes for long periods of time, or have an underlying condition such as diabetes. People with psoriasis or a weakened immune system are also at a higher risk. Toenail fungus infections can be recognized by yellow discoloration, thickened and crumbling toenails, or a foul odor may emit from the nails. In some cases the nail separates from the nailbed. If this type of toenail infection develops, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can prescribe antifungal medication, as creams and lotions may be less effective. In certain cases, the infected toenail may need to be removed entirely. Healing can take up to six months, and the affected nail may not look normal until a new healthy nail grows in fully. If you would like more information on dealing with a toenail fungus, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist.

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 one of our podiatrists of Associates in Podiatry. Our doctors 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 feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The majority of runners dread incurring an injury that may force them to stop running or jogging. It is often necessary to temporarily stop the activity that led to the injury, which will allow ample time for healing. There are simple and effective methods that can be implemented which may help to prevent running injuries. These can include warming up and cooling down before and after running, which can consist of spending adequate time stretching the leg and foot muscles. It is also important to wear shoes that fit correctly, in addition to slowly increasing speed and mileage appropriately. Drinking plenty of water before, during, and after running can keep the body hydrated, which is crucial for healthy running. Some people enjoy getting routine massages, and this is helpful in keeping the muscles limber. If you would like more information about how to prevent running injuries, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can offer you helpful tips.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists of Associates in Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot problems are relatively common among those with diabetes. Over time, diabetes can cause neuropathy, a type of nerve damage. It can interfere with feeling in the feet and cause tingling and pain. With the loss of feeling in the feet, one can get a blister or sore on their foot that gets infected or does not heal properly and never know about it. Also, diabetes can lower the amount of blood flow to the feet, making it harder for sores or infections to heal. Unfortunately, improper healing in diabetics could lead to gangrene and limb loss. Management of blood glucose levels and daily foot care can help to prevent diabetic-related foot problems. Things you can do each day to care for your feet include washing, drying, and moisturizing them, examining your feet for any sores or abnormalities, and trimming toenails straight across. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you have a podiatrist on your healthcare team and receive regular examinations of your feet.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Associates in Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The forefoot is the front part of the foot that contains ligaments, tendons, muscles, nerves, blood vessels, metatarsal bones, and phalanges. The metatarsal bones are the five long bones between the toe bones, the hindfoot, and the midfoot. There are a variety of conditions that can lead to forefoot pain, including Morton’s neuroma, toe pain, and sesamoiditis. The focus here is on sesamoiditis. Most bones are connected to other bones at joints. Sesamoids are bones embedded in muscle and only connected to tendons. On the bottom of the foot, near the big toe, two small sesamoids help with weight bearing and raising the bones of the big toe. Sesamoiditis happens when these tendons become irritated and inflamed. This is common among runners and dancers. If you suffer from pain in your forefoot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist to determine the cause of the pain, whether it’s sesamoiditis, and how to treat it best.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact one of our podiatrists of Associates in Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.