Ask the Foot Docs

Posted on: Striperpedia by FootLocker by Striperpedia staff

The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) and the American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine (AAPSM) regularly field questions on foot health, whether from athletes or those simply looking to maintain their exercise regimen.

Beginning this month, Striperpedia will work with the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) and the American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine (AAPSM) to bring you answers to questions they receive concerning foot health. If you’re a runner, basketball player or any type of athlete with a question on foot health, check back with Striperpedia for regular updates from the APMA.

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Chevonn: I'm writing to you because I have extremely flat feet. It's to the point where it’s hard for me to walk, run, and even train because of shin splints and pain up to my knees. I would like to know your recommendation for training and running shoes that may be able to provide me with some relief.

Dr. Cary Zinkin: You will certainly need the proper type of running shoes for your foot type, usually a “motion control” running shoe. However, first you need to see a podiatric physician who can evaluate your feet and the way you walk (your gait) to find the true source of your pain. The doctor would most likely recommend a prescription custom molded orthotic device, which would be made just for your feet. The podiatrist would mold and design this device, giving the laboratory specific instructions so as to have a favorable outcome and relief of your specific discomfort, as well as prevent other injuries and conditions that occur with very flat feet. After receiving orthotics, you should bring them to a running store where you can try on shoes with the orthotics inside.

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Sarah: I work as a restaurant server and visit a gym 4-5 times a week. I have an aching pain in the ball of my foot which worsens when I am off my feet, especially at night. In addition, the ball of my foot feels incredibly hot, but not to the touch.  I have very long toes — could this have something to do with it? Thank you.

Dr. Bela Pandit: I commend you for being so active and health conscious! It sounds like you may have a neuroma, which is essentially a pinched and inflamed nerve in the ball of your foot or metatarsalgia, which is inflammation at the bones in the ball of your foot. It could also be attributed to your shoes and how active you are. For how active you are, it’s worth making sure you are wearing properly fitted shoes for work and the gym. They should provide the right support you need and easily accommodate your toes. Do you wear custom inserts called orthotics? All of these concerns can be addressed by your local APMA podiatrist.

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Drew in Arizona:  I’ve been diagnosed with plantar fasciitis.  I have tried four different pairs of orthotics, done physical therapy for months, night splints, icing, electric stimulation, and had a plantar release surgery on one foot. My feet are still in extreme pain. Is it possible I have something else? Already having had surgery, what else can I do?

Dr. Marlene Reid: You don’t mention if you have had any type of diagnostic testing. Very often an MRI or diagnostic ultrasounds are used to help confirm a diagnosis. I think this is important for you, especially as you have failed all traditional treatments and your symptoms are not characteristic of plantar fasciitis. It may be time for a second opinion.

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Runners, basketball players, other athletes or anyone concerned about foot health can contact “Ask the Experts” at www.APMA.org. Check Striperpedia regularly for updates.

Please call the Foot, Ankle & Lower Leg Center office in Las Vegas and the Henderson area anytime @702-878-2455 between Monday – Friday (9am to 5pm) and we would be happy to set up an appointment for you.  Please visit our website @ www.FallCenter.com.  

When pain or injury occurs, you deserve highly personalized treatment using the most advanced techniques.  At the Foot, Ankle & Lower Leg Center (FallCenter), you’ll enjoy an unsurpassed level of quality care.  Dr. Ricciardi, Dr. Shalev and Dr. McLeod are proud to provide comprehensive solutions for all types of foot and ankle problems. 

Your quality care begins the minute you arrive, as our staff greets you by name and answers your questions.  Our team of foot and ankle specialists will inspire your confidence and their genuine warmth and compassion will earn your trust.

You’ll receive a prompt and thorough assessment, including on-site diagnostic ultrasound and digital x-rays.  Your treatment plan is designed to resolve your condition without surgery whenever possible.  When surgery is needed, your feet are in the hands of leading physicians with expertise in the latest minimally invasive techniques.  As a result, you’ll be back on your feet and back to your active life as quickly as possible.

Without proper treatment, an injury or chronic condition can keep you from performing even the simplest everyday tasks.  To meet patients’ most critical health needs, Dr. Ricciardi, Dr. Shalev and Dr. McLeod have developed the following “Center of Excellence” treatment programs: Bunion Solutions, Heel Pain, Diabetic Foot Care and Sports Performance Center.