If you are experiencing severe pain originating from the Achilles tendon, you may want to consider a treatment known as extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ECSWT). Additionally, it is effective in treating disorders that involve the soft tissue of the ankle and foot. This treatment consists of non-invasive shock wave impulses that are administered to the painful area of the foot, through the use of a machine designed specifically for this reason. There are numerous benefits that can be obtained from having ECSWT performed, some of which promote the tissues to rapidly heal. Additionally, it may generate new blood vessels to form, which also encourages healing. A consultation with a podiatrist is advised for information about ECSWT to determine if this is a treatment option that’s correct for you.

Shockwave therapy is a treatment commonly used to treat various injuries and conditions, particularly plantar fasciitis in the feet. To learn more, consult with Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy is a new treatment option designed to treat bone conditions such as tennis elbow, shoulder pain, and others. Shockwave therapy uses high intensity sound waves that are directed to the affected tissues of the body with pinpoint accuracy. The effects are very beneficial, leading to a production of collagen fibers, eliminating inflammation.

Who Benefits from Shockwave?

Shockwave is recommended for patients suffering from heel pain and associated problems. Heel pain is a common condition which can be caused by obesity, overexertion, and spending a substantial amount of time on hard floors with your feet exposed and unsupported.

Fast and Easy

The therapy is actually a simple process that can leave patients feeling better the very next day. Shockwave therapy is not as dramatic as it sounds. It enables more blood flow to effected areas, addressing the source of the problem and allowing treatment to last for a long time.

Treatment & Recovery Time

Shockwave treatment will enable your feet to recover quickly. This is especially important since surgery is not required. It is cost effective and does not require the use of anesthesia. This treatment is a better option to surgery, since it is proven safe.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Port St. Lucie, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

If you are experiencing abnormal walking patterns, you may want to consider wearing orthotics. Orthotics are custom-made inserts that are slipped into your shoes. Generally, an impression of your feet is taken to obtain a perfect fit, preventing any feelings of discomfort. The benefits of wearing orthotics may include keeping the foot stable while performing daily activities and helping to correct debilitating pronation. They’re also beneficial in aiding in conditions such as bunions, corns, and heel pain. It may take some time to get used to your new orthotics, since your feet have been functioning in a certain way for years. Therefore, a gradual increase in wearing them may be recommended. Please consider a consultation with a podiatrist for advice on how you can be measured for custom-made orthotics.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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

Sever’s disease is a common condition that affects children and is often accompanied by intense pain. When the growth plate in the heel becomes inflamed, often in children that are physically active, this bone disorder can become quite uncomfortable. This is typically the result of a growth spurt that occurs in early puberty, causing the bone in the heel to grow faster than the muscles in the leg. The tendons become less flexible and consequently place excessive pressure on the heel bone. The Achilles tendon becomes tight and may damage the growth plate, thus causing the pain associated with Sever’s disease. Common symptoms of the condition include difficulty in walking, stiffness in the foot in the morning, or a heel that is swollen or red. Treatment can include rest, which is generally effective in reducing pressure on the heel. Eliminating the activities that cause the pain is recommended, in addition to strengthening the leg with proper foot and leg exercises.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Port St. Lucie, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

The choice to wear high heels can not only be damaging to the heel, but generally puts pressure on the front of the foot as well. Another part of the foot typically affected may be the Achilles tendon. When high heels are worn frequently, the tendon becomes shortened, and the back of the ankle may feel tight as it strains to be flexible. Arthritis may be a result of damage incurred to the joints of the feet from wearing high heels. Additionally, disorders such as bunions, corns, and a thickening of the nerves between the toes, referred to as Morton’s neuroma, may also be the result of choosing this type of shoe to wear. If you do decide to wear high heels, you can reduce the impact that’s endured by placing protective pads in the shoes. When proper stretches are performed, the foot and ankle will not only feel better, but become stronger.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Port St. Lucie, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.