Foot Pain: What To Be Thankful for in the Field of Podiatry

Foot pain is a common issue affecting millions worldwide, often causing discomfort and limited mobility. Whether due to overuse, poor footwear, an injury, or underlying medical conditions, foot pain can quickly go from a minor setback to something that significantly impacts our daily lives. Thankfully, the field of podiatry has made remarkable advancements in diagnosing, treating, and preventing foot problems. As a result, patients can regain comfort and improve their quality of life.

As we enter the winter holidays and a season of gratitude, it is a perfect time to reflect on the incredible work podiatrists do to keep us moving pain-free. Here is why we can be thankful for the field of podiatry and the innovations that help alleviate foot pain.

Having healthy feet benefits from a team approach. See a StrideCare podiatrist today. Our partnership within the StrideCare network of providers ensures you receive the care you need.

The Importance of Healthy Feet

Our feet are the foundation of our body. They support our entire body weight and help us maintain balance. They also ensure we can walk, run, stand, and jump. The human foot is an intricate structure consisting of 26 bones, 33 joints, and over 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Despite being a complex and vital body part, feet are often neglected until we suffer an injury or unknown issue that causes us pain. This can impact everything from mobility to overall well-being, making it difficult to engage in even the simplest activities.

There Are Many Causes of Foot Pain, Including:

• Plantar Fasciitis — Inflammation of the tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot. This can lead to sharp pain in the heel. More than 2 million people in the United States are treated by the field of podiatry each year for plantar fasciitis with custom orthotics, medication, prescribed stretching exercises, and steroid injections.
• Bunions — Bony bumps that form on the joint at the base of the big toe, often leading to swelling and pain that makes it very difficult to walk. The good news is that podiatrists see patients with bunions daily and have several treatment methods, including simple footwear modifications to surgical intervention.
• Arthritis — Joint inflammation can affect the feet and lead to stiffness and pain. Arthritis is a chronic condition that only gets worse with time wherever it strikes. From a healthy feet perspective, you must visit a podiatrist as quickly as possible to address your condition and help find relief.
• Flat feet — When the arches of the feet collapse, leading to pain and alignment issues. You can be born with flat feet or develop them over time because of weight issues, injury or trauma, diabetes, or excessive exercise. After an assessment, podiatrists can recommend physical therapy, custom orthotics, and even surgery.
• Diabetic foot complications — People with diabetes are at risk for nerve damage and poor circulation. This can lead to serious foot problems like slow-healing ulcers and infections that only get harder to treat. The reality is that the annual incidence of diabetic foot ulcers worldwide is between 9.1 to 26.1 million. Podiatrists can treat the wound and educate patients on proper foot care routines. Podiatrists can also create a team approach, collaborating with vascular experts to treat the underlying cause of foot ulcers.

For these and many more reasons, healthy feet are essential for maintaining independence and enjoying an active lifestyle. When foot pain strikes, the field of podiatry plays a crucial role in diagnosing and treating these issues.

Foot care is essential for people of all ages. If you have concerns about your foot health, schedule an appointment with StrideCare’s expert podiatric physicians.

What Podiatry Has To Offer: 6 Benefits

Podiatry is the branch of medicine dedicated to diagnosing and treating disorders of the foot, ankle, and lower extremities. From minor issues like calluses and ingrown toenails to more complex problems like fractures or diabetic foot ulcers, podiatrists are equipped to handle a wide range of foot-related conditions.

Here are some critical areas of podiatry that have revolutionized the way we treat foot pain and conditions:

1. Advanced Diagnostic Tools

Modern podiatry has significantly benefited from tools such as digital X-rays, ultrasound, and MRI scans. These give podiatrists a detailed view of the foot’s internal structure, enabling more accurate diagnoses. Gait analysis systems also help podiatrists evaluate how a patient walks or runs, identifying abnormal foot mechanics contributing to pain or injury. These diagnostic tools have enhanced the precision and effectiveness of podiatry treatment.

2. Custom Orthotics

One of the most significant developments in podiatry is custom orthotics. These specially designed shoe inserts provide support, correct alignment issues, and alleviate pressure on painful areas of the foot. Unlike over-the-counter insoles, custom orthotics are tailored to the individual’s specific foot structure and needs. They can relieve conditions such as flat feet, plantar fasciitis, and bunions while improving overall foot function. Custom orthotics help reduce foot pain while also preventing future injuries.

3. Minimally Invasive Surgical Techniques

Surgery may be necessary for more severe foot conditions that do not respond to conservative treatments. The good news is that podiatric surgery has advanced significantly in recent years, with many procedures now being performed using minimally invasive techniques. Endoscopic plantar fasciotomy, bunionectomy, and arthroscopy are examples of minimally invasive surgeries that reduce recovery time, minimize scarring, and lead to better patient outcomes. These advances in surgical techniques allow patients to get back on their feet more quickly and with less discomfort.

4. Innovations in Wound Care

Proper foot care is crucial for patients with diabetes to prevent complications such as ulcers, infections, and amputations. Fortunately, the field of podiatry has made significant strides in wound care, especially for diabetic foot ulcers. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy, skin grafts, and advanced wound dressings have all improved the healing process for diabetic patients, reducing the risk of severe complications. Podiatrists are key in managing and treating these wounds to ensure the best possible outcomes.

5. Shockwave Therapy

For patients suffering from chronic heel pain due to plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendonitis, shockwave therapy has emerged as a noninvasive treatment option. This technique uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate the body’s natural healing process, thus reducing pain and inflammation. Shockwave therapy is particularly effective for patients who have not responded to other conservative treatments and has been shown to accelerate recovery time.

6. Preventive Care and Patient Education

By educating patients about proper foot care, appropriate footwear, and healthy lifestyle habits, podiatrists help prevent future foot problems. For example, podiatrists often work with athletes to recommend footwear that supports their sport and body mechanics. Additionally, patients with diabetes receive essential guidance on inspecting and caring for their feet daily, reducing the risk of complications. Preventive care is a cornerstone of podiatry, helping patients maintain foot health and avoid unnecessary issues.

Footwear: The Unsung Hero in Foot Health

As previously mentioned, one area in which podiatrists have significantly impacted patients is educating them about proper footwear. Wearing supportive shoes that fit correctly is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to prevent foot pain. Podiatrists often work with patients to recommend orthopedic shoes or custom insoles that support their feet. This is especially important for people with flat feet, high arches, or specific conditions like plantar fasciitis or diabetes. Shoes designed with cushioning, arch support, and proper alignment can make a world of difference in reducing pain and preventing injuries. Whether for athletes, older adults, or individuals with chronic conditions, choosing the proper footwear is a key component of maintaining foot health.

Please consider checking out StrideCare’s diabetic footwear.

Why Be Thankful for Podiatry

Podiatry has transformed the way we understand and manage foot pain. Thanks to modern diagnostic tools, customized treatments, and preventive care, millions have found relief from foot pain and regained mobility. Podiatrists treat existing problems and empower patients with the knowledge to take care of their feet, ensuring long-term health and comfort. As we reflect on what we are thankful for, it is worth taking a moment to appreciate the strides made in podiatry. From alleviating everyday discomfort to preventing life-altering complications, podiatry is vital in keeping us on our feet and moving forward.

StrideCare Podiatry Fosters Gratitude for Pain-Free Steps

Foot pain is not something to take lightly, nor is the care and expertise offered by podiatrists. Whether you have dealt with a minor issue or something more serious, the field of podiatry has likely played a role in helping you live a more comfortable, active life. This holiday season let us be grateful for the dedicated professionals who work tirelessly to keep us pain-free and on the go. By continuing to advance in diagnosis, treatment, and patient care, podiatry ensures we have more to be thankful for in every step we take.

As the largest multi-specialty network in Texas, StrideCare helps patients achieve improved quality of life from common and complex conditions, including diabetic vascular issues, peripheral arterial disease, venous insufficiency, foot neuropathy, varicose veins, diabetic foot ulcers, wounds and more. Finding an experienced, qualified podiatrist near you is easier than ever, with over 50 StrideCare clinic locations across the state. A consultation with one of our podiatrists can determine the type, severity, and location of your chronic foot pain issues. Our expert doctors and caring staff utilize the latest technologies and treatments to help our patients reclaim their lives.

StrideCare is a Texas-based practice, with each clinic locally managed. Please contact us at 866-552-4866 or complete the appointment form to schedule a consultation. At StrideCare, we are here to help, all while providing compassionate patient care.

This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Prior to starting any new treatment or questions regarding a medical condition, always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider.

StrideCare serves North Texas and South Texas communities, including Odessa, Paris, Pecos, Plano, Prosper, Rockwall, Round Rock, Rowlett, Royce City, San Antonio, Sherman, South Dallas, Southlake, Stone Oak, Sugar Land, Sulphur Springs, The Woodlands, Waxahachie, Webster, Addison, Allen, Anna, Arlington, Austin, Carrollton, Celina, Clear Lake, Craig Ranch, Dallas, Euless, Flower Mound, Forney, Fort Worth, Frisco, Garland, Houston, Irving, Katy, Kaufman, Mansfield, McKinney, Mesquite, Midland, North Dallas, and more.

*Patient names and/or photos may be changed to protect patient confidentiality.