Foot massages can be an effective form of foot therapy. The benefits of this form of therapy include relieving sore muscles, and it can help to aid in relaxation. Additionally, research has shown that getting frequent foot massages may help patients to sleep better and it may be easier to manage emotions. There are several methods of performing a good foot massage. These can include gently bending the toes which may help to increase flexibility, and squeezing the heel which is beneficial in relieving tension at the back of the foot. Additionally, when pressure is applied to the inside of the foot, this may help to provide an overall positive feeling in the body. Many patients enjoy having their Achilles tendon massaged which can aid in reducing any tightness in that area. If you would like additional information about how foot massages can help you, please confer with a podiatrist who can answer any questions you may have.

Foot therapy is often necessary for those recovering from either foot deformities or foot injuries. If you have concerns regarding therapy, Leonard Talarico, DPM of Georgia. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Most Common Injuries

People who are active or athletes are prone to a variety of injuries. Therefore, it is often important to take part in physical therapy in order to quickly get back on the right track. 

What to Do When Injured

Physical Therapy – This specialized treatment will focus on the affected area, speeding up recovery and the overall healing process. It is a proven method that has helped millions of people return from any injury.

During physical therapy you will undergo regimented training to get back into full form. Training is often very difficult, especially at first when the foot feels weak. Physical therapy often involves:

Basic stretching and twisting exercises – getting the feet’s mobility and flexibility up.

Massaging – the therapist will massage the injured area in order to activate the muscles and relax them.

Strengthening Exercises – this allows the muscles in the affected area to regain their full strength, a vital step towards full recovery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Pooler, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the plantar fascia, the band of fibrous tissue that runs the length of the bottom of the foot to the heel bone. This condition typically develops from over-stretching of that area, and can result in heel and arch pain and heel spurs. Excessive stretching of the plantar fascia can happen for numerous reasons, including flat feet, a sudden increase in physical activity, high body weight and its pressure on the foot, and footwear that is ill fitting. Pain with plantar fasciitis is often its worst first thing after arising from sleep and can diminish a bit as the day wears on. Treatments might be orthotics to reduce over-pronation, cushioning the heel to absorb shock, wearing supportive shoes that accommodate the foot well, losing weight, stretching exercises, and night splints. Since it is vital to determine the cause of plantar fasciitis to treat it properly, it is suggested that a podiatrist be consulted for evaluation.

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 Leonard Talarico, DPM from Georgia. 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 Pooler, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A common form of inflammatory arthritis is known as gout. It can be extremely uncomfortable and can cause severe pain. It frequently affects the joints in the big toe, and may make walking difficult. Gout develops as a result of a buildup of uric acid, which may come from specific foods, including red meat and shellfish, as well as drinking alcoholic beverages. In addition to pain in the big toe, common symptoms can consist of swelling, redness, and lumps that are painless under the skin. Prevention methods include losing excess weight, avoiding foods that can trigger gout attacks, and eating foods high in vitamin C. Additionally, implementing a gentle exercise routine may help to manage gout. If you have this type of pain in your big toe, please speak with a podiatrist who can discuss prevention techniques and offer treatment solutions. 

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Leonard Talarico, DPM from Georgia. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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