Using Ultrasound to Evaluate Heel Pain in Active Patients

Heel pain in children and adults can come from different causes, including Sever’s disease, a growth-related condition in young athletes involving inflammation at the heel growth plate, and Achilles tendinitis, which involves irritation of the tendon at the back of the heel. Although symptoms may feel similar, the source of the problem is different, making accurate evaluation important. Ultrasound imaging offers a clear, real-time view of soft tissues, allowing providers to assess inflammation, tendon changes, and areas of stress without radiation. This helps guide more precise care by identifying whether the growth plate or the tendon is involved. Treatment may include activity modification, stretching, supportive footwear, or other targeted approaches based on the findings. Early and accurate identification can help prevent worsening symptoms and support a safe return to activity. If heel pain is limiting movement or performance, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a thorough evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Lakeside Foot and Ankle Center. Our practitioners 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 offices located in Leesburg and The Villages, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Heel Pain

Get Professional Care for a Broken Foot or Ankle

Constant care and regular evaluation are important for a foot or ankle fracture. If left untreated, foot or ankle fractures can worsen over time and create more serious problems.

Don't wait to be examined if you believe you've experienced a foot or ankle fracture.

Foot and Ankle Injuries in Baseball

Baseball involves running, sliding, and quick turns that place strong stress on the feet and ankles. Baseball-related injuries occur when a player twists an ankle while rounding a base, lands awkwardly after a jump, or is struck by a fast-moving ball. Other problems include ankle sprains, which happen when the ligaments that hold the joint together stretch or tear, and fractures, which are cracks or breaks in the bones. Sliding into bases can lead to painful impacts or skin injuries around the toes and heels. Cleats that do not fit well may cause blisters, nail damage, or nerve pressure that affects comfort and balance. A podiatrist can examine the injury and order imaging tests to determine its severity. Treatment includes supportive bracing, protective devices, or custom shoe inserts to improve stability and recovery. If you have sustained a foot or ankle injury while playing baseball, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with one of our podiatrists from Lakeside Foot and Ankle Center. Our practitioners will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

  • Achilles Tendonitis
  • Achilles Tendon Rupture
  • Ankle Sprains
  • Broken Foot
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Stress Fractures
  • Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Leesburg and The Villages, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Facts About Foot Arch Pain

Foot arch pain can affect people of all ages and activity levels. The arch runs from the ball of the foot to the heel and acts as a natural shock absorber when walking, running, or standing. Pain in this area may feel dull, throbbing, burning, or sharp. It can develop from overuse, injuries, weakened tendons, stress fractures, or structural differences, such as very high or very flat arches. One frequent cause is inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that supports the arch and helps maintain balance. Symptoms may include stiffness in the morning, swelling, or discomfort that worsens after long periods on the feet. A podiatrist can identify the source of arch pain through a physical exam, gait evaluation, and imaging tests. Treatment options include custom orthotics, bracing, or more advanced medical care to restore function and relieve discomfort. If you are experiencing pain in the arch of your foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Lakeside Foot and Ankle Center. Our practitioners 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 offices located in Leesburg and The Villages, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Foot Pain

Symptoms and Causes of Flat Feet

Flat feet occur when the arch on the inside of the foot is low or missing, causing most of the sole to touch the ground while standing or walking. The arch helps absorb shock and spread body weight during movement. When it flattens, the foot may roll inward and place strain on muscles and joints. Some people with flat feet have no symptoms, but others develop pain in the arch, heel, or ankle. Pain often worsens after long periods of standing or walking. Swelling along the inside of the ankle, tired feet, or shoes wearing out unevenly may also occur. Flat feet may develop when arches fail to form during childhood, or when supportive tissues weaken with age. Injury, arthritis, excess body weight, or inherited conditions can also affect foot structure. If you have flat feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Lakeside Foot and Ankle Center. Our practitioners will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

  • Pain around the heel or arch area
  • Trouble standing on the tip toe
  • Swelling around the inside of the ankle
  • Flat look to one or both feet
  • Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Leesburg and The Villages, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Flat Feet

Connect With Us