Items filtered by date: April 2025

Foot arch pain is often linked to problems with the abductor hallucis muscle, which supports the arch and controls movement of the big toe. This muscle can become strained due to overuse, especially in people with flat feet or those who spend long hours standing or walking. Poor footwear that lacks arch support can increase the risk of arch pain. Symptoms may include tenderness along the inside of the foot, swelling, or a tight feeling when pressing on the muscle. A podiatrist can diagnose the source of the foot arch pain by examining your foot’s structure, testing its range of motion, and using imaging, if needed, to rule out other injuries. Medical treatment options include prescription orthotics to support the arch and reduce strain. In more severe cases, surgery might be necessary if nerve compression or lasting damage is found. If you have pain in the arch of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Tanisha Richmond, DPM from Richmond Foot & Ankle, LLC. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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.

Bunion surgery is a procedure performed to correct the misalignment of the big toe joint and relieve discomfort caused by a bunion. It is usually considered when non-surgical treatments no longer provide relief and the pain begins to interfere with daily activities. There are various surgical techniques available, and the choice depends on the severity of the bunion and the overall foot structure. Recovery may take several weeks, during which limited weight-bearing and proper foot care are essential. Many patients experience significant improvement in pain and function following the procedure. The goal is long-term relief and it is important to follow postoperative instructions to prevent recurrence. If you have a painful bunion, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if surgery is appropriate, and what to expect during the healing process for optimal results.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Tanisha Richmond, DPM of Richmond Foot & Ankle, LLC. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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 and ankle needs.

Heel pain in seniors often results from age-related changes in the feet, such as tissue wear, bone thinning, or chronic strain. A common cause of heel pain is plantar fasciitis, which involves inflammation of the thick band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes. This condition often leads to sharp pain during the first steps in the morning. Heel spurs, or bony growths beneath the heel, may develop alongside plantar fasciitis and contribute to discomfort. Achilles tendinitis can also cause heel pain, particularly at the back of the ankle, due to overuse or stiffness. Arthritis in the foot joints may lead to inflammation and limited mobility. Seniors are also at greater risk of stress fractures, bursitis, and heel pad syndrome, which results from thinning of the natural cushioning beneath the heel. Tarsal tunnel syndrome or peripheral neuropathy are sources of nerve-related heel pain. A podiatrist can identify the underlying cause of your heel pain. Effective treatment options include custom orthotics, night splints, injections, or surgery. If you are experiencing heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and a diagnosis to determine the best treatment plan for you.

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 contact our office located in Dayton, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Orthotics play a vital role in improving mobility and comfort for individuals with cerebral palsy by providing support, alignment, and stability. Cerebral palsy often affects muscle tone and coordination, leading to difficulties with walking and balance. Orthotic devices help correct foot positioning, reduce muscle strain, and enhance overall function by promoting a more natural gait pattern. They assist in distributing weight evenly, preventing excessive pressure on specific areas that may lead to discomfort or deformities. Custom orthotics can be designed to meet individual needs, offering improved control and reducing the risk of falls. By enhancing stability and support, orthotics contribute to greater independence and mobility for individuals with cerebral palsy, allowing them to move with increased confidence and comfort in their daily activities. If cerebral palsy is part of your life, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can educate you on custom-made orthotics that may help to manage this condition.

If you’re experiencing foot discomfort, have a history of foot and ankle injuries, or are interested in exploring Custom orthotics, don’t hesitate to contact Tanisha Richmond, DPM at Richmond Foot & Ankle, LLC. Our doctor is dedicated to offering the care required to help you remain pain-free and stay on your feet. 

What are Custom Orthotics?

Custom orthotics refer to custom inserts designed for placement in different shoe types, including athletic and formal footwear, with the purpose of alleviating a spectrum of foot-related problems such as flat feet, heel pain, and overall foot discomfort. These inserts are instrumental in providing relief and comfort for a diverse range of foot conditions, including heel pain, and can also act as a proactive approach to injury prevention. 

Medical Grade Shoe Inserts: 

A diverse array of shoe inserts is available for addressing foot pain, heel discomfort, and minor issues. For instance, you can place arch supports in your shoes to rectify overarched or flat feet, and gel and cushioned insoles are frequently chosen for the comfort and relief they provide from foot and heel pain by reducing pressure. 

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

An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments that support the joint are stretched or torn due to excessive force. The most common type is an inversion sprain, where the foot rolls inward, causing damage to the outer ligaments. An eversion sprain is less common and happens when the foot rolls outward, affecting the inner ligaments. The severity of ankle sprains is classified into grades. A mild sprain involves slight stretching of the ligaments with minimal swelling. A moderate sprain includes partial tearing, increased swelling, and difficulty bearing weight. A severe sprain results in a complete ligament tear, significant swelling, and joint instability. Strengthening exercises, balance training, and supportive footwear can help prevent future injuries and maintain ankle stability. If you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can offer treatment solutions based on the type and severity of the sprain.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, 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.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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.

Child athletes frequently experience foot and ankle injuries due to the physical demands of sports. Activities such as soccer, basketball, and gymnastics place significant stress on these areas, increasing the risk of sprains, fractures, and overuse injuries. Ankle sprains are particularly common, often resulting from sudden changes in direction or missteps. Overuse injuries in child athletes, such as stress fractures and tendon inflammation, can develop when repetitive motions strain the bones and soft tissues without adequate recovery time. Growth plate injuries are another concern, as the developing bones in children are more vulnerable to damage, which may affect long-term growth. Ignoring persistent pain or swelling may lead to chronic issues and a higher risk of re-injury. A podiatrist can evaluate your child’s condition, provide treatment to manage the pain and swelling, and recommend ways to prevent future injuries, such as wearing proper footwear and activity modifications. If your child experiences foot pain after sports activities, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, 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.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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.