Items filtered by date: December 2025

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain that occurs when the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot becomes irritated. This condition often develops from repetitive strain, tight calf muscles, flat feet, high arches, or wearing unsupportive shoes. Symptoms include sharp heel pain with the first steps in the morning, tenderness, and stiffness after activity. Additionally, risk factors include increased activity levels, prolonged standing, aging, and excess weight. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition, provide custom treatment plans, and offer support through therapies, footwear guidance, and targeted exercises to reduce pain. If heel pain is disrupting your routine, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat what may be going on.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Tanisha Richmond, DPM  from Richmond Foot & Ankle, LLC. 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 Dayton, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A foot corn is a common foot problem that develops when thickened skin forms in response to repeated pressure or friction. Corns often appear on toes or areas that rub against tight or poorly fitted shoes, leading to pain, tenderness, and irritation. They can become more uncomfortable over time if the pressure continues. Preventing corns starts with choosing comfortable shoes that fit well and do not create the same pressure spots. Soft insoles and protective pads can also reduce friction. A podiatrist can safely remove thickened skin, evaluate the cause of the pressure, and recommend footwear or orthotics to stop corns from returning. If you have ongoing foot discomfort or think you may have developed a corn, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist for expert care and relief.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Tanisha Richmond, DPM of Richmond Foot & Ankle, LLC. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

Cracked heels are a common foot concern that can cause discomfort and affect daily activities. They often develop when the skin becomes dry and thickened, leading to painful splits. Cracked heels may occur due to itching from an injury, underlying endocrine disease, improper hygiene, or a lack of essential vitamins and minerals that support healthy skin. Symptoms include rough skin, redness, peeling, tenderness, and, in severe cases, bleeding. A podiatrist can identify the root cause and provide treatments such as debridement, moisturizing therapies, guidance on nutritional support, and advice on proper foot care habits. Addressing cracked heels early can prevent infection and ongoing pain. If you have developed cracked heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer relief and effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Tanisha Richmond, DPM from Richmond Foot & Ankle, LLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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

Orthotics play a vital role in managing foot and ankle conditions by preventing progression and reducing pressure on affected areas. They provide proper alignment, distribute weight evenly, and enhance stability. This helps relieve pain and slow the development of chronic issues, such as arthritis, tendonitis, or plantar fasciitis. Custom orthotics are designed to meet each patient’s unique structural and functional needs for maximum comfort and long-term support. A podiatrist can evaluate your gait, identify problem areas, and create orthotics tailored to your lifestyle. If you have ongoing foot or ankle discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can discuss the benefits of custom-made orthotics for relief. 

Custom orthotics are specialized shoe inserts created to support and align the feet according to each person’s unique structure and walking pattern. They are an effective way to relieve foot discomfort caused by conditions such as flat feet, high arches, plantar fasciitis, bunions, and heel pain. When the natural alignment of the foot is off balance, it can lead to pressure points, strain, and pain that affect how a person stands, walks, and moves. Orthotics work by redistributing weight evenly and supporting the arch to reduce stress on the muscles, tendons, and joints of the feet and lower legs.

Foot discomfort can develop for many reasons, including wearing improper footwear, long hours of standing, repetitive motion, or underlying structural problems. Over time, this discomfort can extend beyond the feet, contributing to knee, hip, or lower back pain. Custom orthotics help correct these issues by improving alignment and promoting more efficient movement. They are made using precise measurements and imaging to ensure the best fit for each patient, providing targeted support and cushioning where it is needed most.

Unlike generic insoles, custom orthotics are durable, medically designed, and tailored to your specific needs. Whether you are managing chronic pain, recovering from an injury, or simply seeking better comfort and stability, orthotics can make a noticeable difference in how your feet feel throughout the day.

If you are experiencing persistent foot discomfort or fatigue, it may be time to have your feet evaluated by a podiatrist. Call our office today for more information or to schedule an appointment.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Dayton, OH . 

Gout is a painful condition that frequently affects the feet, especially the big toe joint, where sharp uric acid crystals can form and irritate the joint. This buildup leads to sudden flares of intense pain, swelling, redness, and warmth that make standing or walking very difficult. Flares can last for days or weeks and tend to return over time, sometimes spreading to the ankle or other joints in the foot. If untreated, repeated attacks can cause lasting damage and lead to the formation of tophi, which are hard lumps under the skin that restrict movement and deform the joint. Risk factors that raise the chance of developing gout include obesity, use of diuretics, diets high in red meat, shellfish, or sugary drinks, in addition to chronic conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or poor kidney function. A podiatrist can diagnose gout in the feet and provide treatment to reduce pain and protect joint health. If you have symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and prevention tips.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Tanisha Richmond, DPM from Richmond Foot & Ankle, LLC. 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 Dayton, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar heel pain affects people of all ages, especially those who spend long hours on their feet. It is often caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel bone to the toes. Symptoms include sharp or aching pain in the heel, especially with the first steps in the morning or after long periods of rest. The area may appear swollen or feel tender to the touch. This condition can be triggered by wearing improper footwear, obesity, overuse, flat feet, or high arches. A podiatrist can assist in accurately diagnosing the cause through a physical exam, imaging, and gait analysis. Treatment may include custom orthotics, stretching exercises, anti-inflammatory medication, or night splints. In more severe cases, advanced interventions may be recommended. If you have heel pain, It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and personalized care.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Tanisha Richmond, DPM of Richmond Foot & Ankle, LLC. Our doctor 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 feel free to contact our office located in Dayton, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.