Plantar fasciitis develops when the plantar fascia becomes irritated. The plantar fascia is a strong band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot from the heel toward the toes. It helps support the arch and absorbs stress when standing or walking. Repeated strain on this tissue leads to heel pain and tenderness. Factors that contribute include long periods of standing, increased physical activity, and changes in foot structure. Shoes that lack proper support also place added stress on the plantar fascia. Pain is usually felt near the bottom of the heel. It is especially noticeable with the first steps after getting out of bed or after sitting for an extended period.

A podiatrist evaluates plantar fasciitis by examining the foot and identifying areas of pain or tenderness. An examination includes checking the arch, ankle movement, and foot flexibility. The podiatrist also observes how the patient stands and walks in order to identify movement patterns that could place added stress on the plantar fascia. Treatment is focused on reducing strain while improving foot support and function. Custom orthotics help distribute pressure more evenly and support the arch. A podiatrist may recommend shoes that provide appropriate cushioning and support. Targeted treatment also improves flexibility and addresses tight tissues that contribute to heel discomfort.

Plantar fasciitis makes standing, walking, and completing daily activities uncomfortable. Patients can change the way they walk to avoid pressure on the painful heel, which places additional stress on other areas of the foot. A podiatrist identifies these changes and develops a treatment plan based on the patient's symptoms and foot structure. Care is focused on reducing painful pressure and improving the way the foot functions. Treatment can be adjusted according to the patient's activity level and response to care. Addressing the factors that place strain on the plantar fascia supports more comfortable movement and better foot function. If you have symptoms of plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

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 Afshin Javaherian, DPM from Dr. Java Foot & Ankle Clinic. 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?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

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

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

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 Los Angeles, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Morton’s neuroma is a painful thickening of tissue surrounding a nerve in the ball of the foot. It is benign, meaning it is not cancerous. The condition usually develops between the third and fourth toes, although it can also form between the second and third toes. Pressure on the nerve can cause burning pain, tingling, or numbness. Some patients describe feeling as though a pebble is trapped beneath the foot or a sock is bunched under the toes. Symptoms can spread into nearby toes and become worse with standing or activity.

The exact reason Morton’s neuroma begins is not always clear. Wearing high-heeled shoes that have a narrow toe box can squeeze the front of the foot and increase pressure on the nerve. Running and other high-impact activities can also irritate this area. Certain foot shapes or movement problems may place added stress on the ball of the foot. A podiatrist examines the painful area and gently presses the sides of the foot to check whether this brings on the symptoms. X-rays can rule out a fracture or another bone problem. An ultrasound or MRI scan may be ordered when the diagnosis remains uncertain.

Treatment from a podiatrist focuses on easing pressure and calming nerve irritation. The podiatrist may recommend shoes with a wide toe box, a low heel, and proper support. Custom orthotics can improve how pressure is distributed across the foot. Special padding can also reduce stress near the affected nerve. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, the podiatrist may provide an injection to reduce pain and inflammation. When these treatments do not provide enough relief, surgery may be considered to create more room for the nerve or remove the damaged section. If you have symptoms of Morton's neuroma, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Afshin Javaherian, DPM of Dr. Java Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

Haglund’s deformity is a bony enlargement at the upper back of the heel. The bump forms near the point where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel bone. It can rub against the back of a shoe and cause pain, redness, and swelling behind the heel. The area may feel tender, and a bump can develop. Pain can be noticeable when wearing shoes with firm heel counters. Some patients also have discomfort when they begin walking after resting. The condition can affect one heel or both heels.

The cause of Haglund’s deformity is not always clear. A tight Achilles tendon, high arches, and an inherited heel shape can raise the risk. Pressure from wearing stiff or poorly fitting shoes can worsen irritation. The nearby fluid-filled sac, called a bursa, can become inflamed. This sac cushions the heel bone and Achilles tendon. When it becomes irritated, swelling and pain can increase. A podiatrist examines the heel, checks the patient’s foot structure, and asks when the pain occurs. X-rays can show the heel bone and the size of the bump. Other imaging can help assess the Achilles tendon or surrounding tissue when the cause remains unclear.

Treatment focuses on reducing pressure, easing inflammation, and protecting the back of the heel. The podiatrist can recommend shoes with a softer heel area or room around the bump. Custom orthotics or heel lifts can improve foot position and reduce strain on the Achilles tendon. Padding may limit shoe rubbing. A temporary walking boot can protect the area when pain is severe. The podiatrist can also monitor the tendon and adjust treatment based on the patient’s progress. When these measures do not provide enough relief, surgery may be considered to remove the excess bone and address damaged tissue. If you have symptoms of Haglund's deformity, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Afshin Javaherian, DPM of Dr. Java Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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

A ganglion cyst is a non-cancerous, fluid-filled lump that can develop near a joint or tendon. Ganglion cysts on the foot may form around the ankle, top of the foot, or near a joint where connective tissues are present. The cyst is usually filled with a thick, jelly-like fluid, and may feel soft or firm when touched. Symptoms may include a visible bump, tenderness, or aching. Irritation while walking may occur. The size of a cyst can change over time and may become more noticeable after activity.

The exact cause of a ganglion cyst is not always known. These cysts may develop when fluid from a joint or tendon sheath collects and forms a sac beneath the skin. Repeated stress or irritation around a joint may contribute to their development. Risk factors can include previous foot injuries, repetitive activity, and conditions that place ongoing stress on the feet. Some people develop a cyst without an obvious injury or triggering event. Because other lumps can look similar, a new growth should be evaluated rather than assumed to be a ganglion cyst.

A podiatrist can examine the foot and determine whether a ganglion cyst is responsible for the lump and symptoms. The evaluation may include reviewing medical history, examining the size and location of the cyst, and checking nearby joints and tendons. Imaging such as an ultrasound or an MRI scan may be recommended when the diagnosis is uncertain. When symptoms interfere with footwear or walking footwear changes may be suggested. Aspiration or surgical removal may be needed, depending on the cyst and the patient’s needs.

Ganglion cysts are usually benign, but persistent growth, pain, or changes in the surrounding skin deserve professional attention. A podiatrist can explain the available treatment options and help determine whether intervention is necessary. If you have a ganglion cyst on your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Afshin Javaherian, DPM from Dr. Java Foot & Ankle Clinic. 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:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

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 Los Angeles, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.