Foot and ankle issues are easy to overlook until they begin to interfere with daily life. Pain, swelling, numbness, or visible changes in the skin or nails are all reasons to seek care. A podiatrist specializes in identifying the cause behind these symptoms and creating a treatment plan that fits your needs. Whether it is recurring heel pain, a toenail that keeps growing inward, or a sore that will not heal, early attention can prevent more serious problems. Foot discomfort is not something to ignore or push through, especially if you have conditions like diabetes, arthritis, or poor circulation. Addressing minor issues before they become major ones can protect your mobility and overall well-being. If you are noticing any changes in how your feet feel or function, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to contact One of our podiatrists from Battle Creek Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.

Podiatric Treatment

A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:

• Physical therapy
• Drugs
• Orthotic inserts or soles
• Surgery on lower extremity fractures

A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.

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

Heel pain is a frequent complaint that can interfere with daily movement and quality of life. Common causes include plantar fasciitis, which involves inflammation of the tissue along the sole, and Achilles tendonitis, which affects the tendon connecting the heel to the calf. Heel spurs, or bony growths, and stress fractures in the heel bone can also lead to persistent discomfort. Risk factors include excessive physical activity, improper footwear, obesity, and tight calf muscles. A podiatrist can identify the specific cause of heel pain through examination and imaging, then create a treatment plan involving stretching, footwear changes, orthotics, or other therapies. If you suffer from heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an expert diagnosis and relief strategies.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact One of our podiatrists of Battle Creek Foot & Ankle. Our doctors 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 contact our office located in Battle Creek, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Falls in older adults are often linked to underlying foot conditions that can impair balance, strength, and coordination. Issues such as numbness, joint stiffness, weak ankles, and pain from deformities like bunions or hammertoes may increase the risk of losing balance while walking. Improperly fitting shoes or worn soles can further compromise footing. Addressing these problems can significantly reduce the risk of falls. A podiatrist can assess your foot structure, diagnose conditions affecting mobility, and recommend proper footwear or custom orthotics to improve support. For those with nerve damage or poor circulation in the feet, early detection and treatment are essential to maintaining balance. In some cases, surgery may be advised to correct structural issues that impair gait. Regular foot exams can also help detect progressive conditions before they contribute to instability. If you have foot problems that are likely to contribute to a fall, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for expert advice and guidance.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with One of our podiatrists from Battle Creek Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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