1. Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain that we see at our clinic. This condition occurs when the plantar fascia—a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot connecting your heel bone to your toes—becomes inflamed.

Common symptoms include:

• Sharp, stabbing pain in the bottom of the foot near the heel
• Pain that is worst with the first steps in the morning
• Pain that increases after standing for long periods or after getting up from sitting

Early intervention is crucial for preventing chronic heel pain. Our podiatrists use a combination of stretching exercises, custom orthotic devices, and in some cases, night splints to effectively treat plantar fasciitis.

2. Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when the edges or corners of your nails grow into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling. This condition most commonly affects the big toe and can lead to serious infections if left untreated.

Causes of ingrown toenails include:

• Improper nail trimming
• Tight-fitting shoes
• Injury to the nail
• Genetic predisposition

Our podiatrists can provide immediate relief by carefully removing the ingrown portion of the nail and prescribing antibiotics if an infection is present. For recurrent cases, we may recommend a minor procedure to permanently prevent the nail from growing into the skin.

3. Bunions

A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of your big toe. It develops when the big toe pushes against the next toe, forcing the joint of the big toe to enlarge and stick out. This deformity can cause significant pain and difficulty wearing shoes.

Symptoms of bunions include:

• A visible bump on the outside of the foot at the base of the big toe
• Pain and soreness around the affected joint
• Redness and inflammation
• Limited movement of the big toe

Treatment options range from conservative approaches like padding and custom orthotics to surgical intervention for severe cases. Our podiatrists will work with you to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on your specific condition.

4. Achilles Tendinitis

Achilles tendinitis is an overuse injury of the Achilles tendon, the band of tissue that connects your calf muscles to your heel bone. This condition is particularly common among runners and athletes who have suddenly increased the intensity or duration of their training.

Symptoms include:

• Pain and stiffness along the Achilles tendon, especially in the morning
• Severe pain after exercising
• Thickening of the tendon
• Bone spurs

At Prospect Podiatry, we offer comprehensive treatment plans that may include rest, ice, physical therapy, and custom orthotics to relieve pressure on the tendon and promote healing.

5. Fungal Nail Infections

Fungal nail infections are common conditions that cause the nail to become discolored, thickened, and brittle. These infections can be difficult to treat and may spread to other nails if left unchecked.

Signs of a fungal nail infection include:

• Thickened nails
• Whitish to yellow-brown discoloration
• Brittle, crumbly, or ragged nails
• Distorted nail shape
• Slightly foul odor

Our podiatrists offer effective treatments including oral antifungal medications, topical solutions, and in some cases, laser therapy to eliminate the infection and restore healthy nail growth.

6. Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are small growths that typically appear on the weight-bearing areas of the foot, such as the heels or balls of the feet. They are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) entering the skin through tiny cuts or breaks.

Characteristics of plantar warts include:

• Small, rough growths on the soles of the feet
• Hard, thickened skin (callus) over a well-defined spot
• Black pinpoints (small, clotted blood vessels)
• Pain when walking or standing

At Prospect Podiatry, we offer several effective treatments for plantar warts, including cryotherapy (freezing), acid treatments, laser therapy, and minor surgical procedures to remove the warts completely.

7. Flat Feet

Flat feet, or fallen arches, occur when the arches of the foot collapse, causing the entire sole to come into contact with the ground. While some people with flat feet experience no symptoms, others may develop pain in the feet, ankles, knees, or lower back.

Symptoms of problematic flat feet include:

• Foot pain, particularly in the arch or heel area
• Swelling along the inside of the ankle
• Difficulty standing on tiptoes
• Pain that worsens with activity

Our podiatrists can help manage the symptoms of flat feet through custom orthotic devices, supportive footwear recommendations, and specific exercises to strengthen the arch muscles.

8. Shin Splints

Shin splints refer to pain along the inner edge of the shinbone (tibia). This condition is common among runners, dancers, and military recruits who undergo intense physical training.

Common symptoms include:

• Pain along the inner side of the shinbone
• Mild swelling in the lower leg
• Pain that worsens during exercise
• Tenderness or soreness along the inner part of the lower leg

Treatment typically involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), along with proper footwear and possibly custom orthotics to correct biomechanical issues contributing to the condition.

9. Corns and Calluses

Corns and calluses are thick, hardened layers of skin that develop when your skin tries to protect itself against friction and pressure. They most commonly occur on the feet and toes or hands where there is repeated friction.

Characteristics include:

• Thick, rough areas of skin
• Hardened, raised bumps
• Pain or tenderness under the skin
• Dry, flaky, or waxy skin

At Prospect Podiatry, we can safely remove corns and calluses and provide advice on preventing their recurrence through proper footwear and the use of protective pads.

10. Diabetic Foot Problems

People with diabetes are at higher risk for foot problems due to potential nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor circulation. These conditions can lead to serious complications if left untreated.

Common diabetic foot problems include:

• Numbness or loss of sensation
• Changes in foot shape
• Ulcers or sores that don’t heal
• Infections

Regular podiatric check-ups are essential for diabetic patients to prevent serious complications. Our podiatrists provide comprehensive diabetic foot care, including regular assessments, wound care, and education on proper foot hygiene and self-examination techniques.

When to See a Podiatrist

If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, it’s time to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist:

• Persistent pain in your foot or ankle
• Changes in the appearance of your feet or nails
• Severe cracking, scaling, or peeling on the heels or feet
• Blisters or other skin problems on your feet
• Signs of infection, including redness, warmth, or drainage
• Any foot symptoms that don’t improve within a reasonable amount of time

At Prospect Podiatry, our team of experienced podiatrists is dedicated to providing the highest quality foot and ankle care. Whether you’re dealing with heel pain, ingrown toenails, or any other foot-related condition, we’re here to help you get back on your feet.

Don’t let foot pain impact your quality of life—contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward healthier feet!