The plantar fascia is a strong band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot and helps support the arch. A sharp pain near the heel with the first morning steps can be a sign of plantar fasciitis. This painful  condition usually causes a sharp or aching pain near the heel. Pain is frequently strongest with the first steps after getting out of bed or standing after a long rest. It can ease after a few minutes of movement, but return after activity. Some patients also notice stiffness or tenderness along the bottom of the foot.

Repeated strain can place too much stress on the plantar fascia. Risk factors include a sudden increase in exercise, long hours spent standing, and tight calf muscles. Flat feet or high arches can also change how pressure moves through the foot. Other possible causes include excess body weight and shoes that lack proper support. Runners, dancers, and workers who spend time on hard floors can be more likely to develop symptoms. Because several problems can cause similar heel pain, an accurate diagnosis is important before treatment begins.

A podiatrist can examine the foot, review when the pain occurs, and check the patient's range of motion. X-rays or other imaging tests can help rule out a fracture, arthritis, or another cause of heel pain. Treatment by a podiatrist includes custom orthotics, supportive shoe recommendations, and a guided stretching program. This foot doctor may also suggest wearing a night splint or temporary walking boot to reduce strain. Surgery is rarely required, but it can be considered for severe pain that continues despite other care. Early evaluation can help prevent the pain from limiting work, exercise, and everyday movement. It can also support a safer return to activity. If you have symptoms of plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Gregory Rorick, DPM  from Rorick Podiatry, PC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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

Running places repeated force on the feet and lower legs, and that force can sometimes lead to a stress fracture. A stress fracture is a small crack in a bone caused by repeated impact rather than one sudden injury. Runners can develop these fractures in the feet, shins, or hips. Pain is usually focused on one specific area and can become more noticeable with activity. Swelling and bruising can also occur. The pain can ease with rest, but returning to running before the bone heals can make the injury worse.

Several factors can increase a runner’s risk of a stress fracture. A sudden jump in weekly mileage can place more force on bones than they are prepared to handle. Running in old shoes or shoes that lack proper support can also increase stress on the feet and legs. Running form matters as well. Over-striding happens when the foot lands too far in front of the body, increasing impact. Bone health also plays an important role. Low levels of calcium or vitamin D can weaken bones. For some female runners, under-eating combined with heavy exercise can affect hormones and bone strength, raising fracture risk.

A podiatrist can examine the painful area and evaluate a runner’s symptoms, training history, and foot mechanics. Imaging tests can help identify a stress fracture, although some small fractures are difficult to see on an early X-ray. Treatment can include limiting impact and protecting the injured area with a walking boot or cast. Healing can take several weeks, depending on the location and severity of the fracture. A podiatrist can monitor healing and guide a safe return to running. If you have symptoms of a stress fracture, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Gregory Rorick, DPM from Rorick Podiatry, PC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in New York Mills, Utica, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The Achilles tendon is the thick band of tissue connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and helps the foot push off during walking, running, and jumping. An Achilles tendon injury occurs when this tendon becomes irritated, partially torn, or completely ruptured. Symptoms may include pain near the heel, swelling, and weakness when pushing off. Some injuries develop gradually, while others happen suddenly during physical activity.

Common causes include repeated athletic stress, sudden increases in exercise, and forceful movements, such as jumping or sprinting. Risk factors include limited flexibility, previous Achilles problems, and activities that place repeated strain on the tendon. Age can also affect tendon resilience. Achilles tendon injuries may range from mild tendinitis or tendinopathy to partial tears and complete ruptures. Recognizing symptoms early can help prevent worsening damage.

Healing depends on the severity of the injury and how well the tendon is protected during recovery. A podiatrist begins by examining the heel and ankle, checking strength, range of motion, and walking ability. Imaging tests may be recommended when a tear or rupture is suspected. Treatment may include activity modification, wearing supportive footwear, or immobilization. Severe injuries may require surgical evaluation. Follow-up visits help monitor tendon healing and guide gradual increases in activity.

Recovery should progress carefully because returning to sports too soon can place excessive stress on healing tissue. A podiatrist may recommend stretching, strengthening, and balance exercises as recovery advances. Patients should follow activity restrictions and avoid movements that increase pain. With appropriate care, many Achilles tendon injuries can improve, although healing time varies considerably. If you have an Achilles tendon injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions. 

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Gregory Rorick, DPM of Rorick Podiatry, PC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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

Heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the underside of the heel bone, often forming gradually due to repeated stress and strain on the foot. These calcium deposits can extend forward from the heel and may be associated with conditions such as plantar fasciitis. While some heel spurs do not cause symptoms, others lead to significant discomfort and inflammation. Understanding what heel spurs are and how they develop is essential for managing heel pain and maintaining proper foot function.

The most common symptom of a heel spur is pain at the bottom of the heel, especially during the first steps in the morning or after long periods of rest. This pain is often described as sharp or stabbing, and it may improve slightly with movement before returning after prolonged standing or walking. Inflammation, swelling, and tenderness in the heel area may also occur. Some individuals experience a deep aching sensation due to irritation of surrounding soft tissue. Heel bruising can worsen symptoms and make daily activities more difficult.

Heel spurs are commonly caused by repetitive strain on the foot, particularly from activities that place excessive pressure on the heel. Risk factors include being overweight, wearing poorly supportive footwear, and having abnormal foot mechanics such as flat feet or high arches. Arthritis and chronic inflammation can also contribute to spur formation. Athletes, runners, and individuals who stand for long periods are more prone to developing heel spurs due to repetitive stress on the plantar fascia and heel bone. Treatment for heel spurs focuses on reducing pain and inflammation while addressing the underlying cause. Conservative options include stretching exercises, wearing supportive shoes, custom orthotics, and anti-inflammatory medications. Early intervention can help prevent worsening symptoms and improve mobility. If you have heel pain or symptoms of heel spurs, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Gregory Rorick, DPM from Rorick Podiatry, PC. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

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