June 2023

Many people choose to wear orthotics that can help to protect and realign the structure of the feet. Having plantar fasciitis, flat feet, and heel spurs are common conditions that may be helped by wearing custom-made orthotics. There are various types of insoles, consisting of every day and running. Insoles that are worn daily may last up to six months, and this can depend on how many hours they are worn. People who are athletes may be interested in learning about running insoles, which may last between three and four months. Patients who stand on their feet during the workday may benefit from wearing insoles in their work boots, and this can be successful in providing the necessary support while working. If you would like additional information about the types of orthotics that can be purchased, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can guide you toward the type of orthotics that are best for you.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Gary L. Curson, DPM from Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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

Sever’s disease, or calcaneal apophysis, is a common cause of heel pain in active children ages 8 to 15. It is often described as an overuse injury from running and jumping activities that cause repetitive stress and pressure on the calcaneal growth plate. When adolescents have a growth spurt, their bone may exceed the growth of this muscle-tendon unit. This can cause the inability to stretch and maintain flexibility, as well as irritation, inflammation, and pain to ensue. This condition is diagnosed by an examination of the heel and a positive squeeze test that replicates the pain. Radiographic imaging can exclude other possible causes of such pain. Some treatment options for Sever’s disease consist of resting, stretching exercises, and wearing orthotics. If your child has Sever’s disease and is not responding to rest, it is suggested that you set up an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and a treatment plan.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Gary L. Curson, DPM from Florida. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Surfside, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

A plantar fibroma is an area of tissue that develops in the arch of the foot that can be painful, despite being benign. Several fibromas on the foot are referred to as plantar fibromatosis. The noticeable symptom of a plantar fibroma is an uncomfortable lump that slowly grows in the arch of the foot. The pain may worsen when the lump is touched or when standing for long periods. There is no known cause for why a plantar fibroma develops, however, enduring repetitive foot injuries may lead to tearing the plantar fascia which may promote the growth of a plantar fibroma. Patients have found mild relief when custom-made orthotics are worn and when specific stretches are performed. If you have a lump on the bottom of your foot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat a plantar fibroma.

A plantar fibroma may disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Gary L. Curson, DPM of Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Plantar Fibroma

A plantar fibroma is a fibrous knot in the arch of the foot. It is embedded in the plantar fascia which is a band of tissue that extends from the heel to the toes along the bottom of the foot. There can be multiple plantar fibromas in the feet at the same time. There are no known causes for this condition. If you have a plantar fibroma, there will be a bump in the arch of your foot that cannot be missed. Any associated pain is most often due to a shoe rubbing against the nodule. Non-surgical options, such as steroid injections, physical therapy, and orthotics should be tried first. Surgery is a last resort and is the only thing that will remove a plantar fibroma entirely. Consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and to determine the treatment regimen that is right for you.

What Causes a Plantar Fibroma?

While there are no specific causes identified, a plantar fibroma can possibly come from genetic predisposition or the formation of scar tissue that forms from healing the tears in the plantar fascia.

What Are the Symptoms of a Plantar Fibroma?

There will be a noticeable lump in the arch of the foot that may or may not cause pain. If pain is felt, it is typically because a shoe is rubbing up against the lump or when walking or standing barefoot.

Treatment and Prevention

A plantar fibroma will not disappear without treatment, but it can get smaller and be a non-issue. If pain persists, a podiatrist examines the foot and when the arch of the foot is pressed, pain can be felt down to the toes. An MRI or biopsy might be performed to help diagnose or evaluate the plantar fibroma. The following non-surgical options are generally enough to reduce the size and pain of these nodules:

• Steroid injections
• Orthotics
• Physical therapy to help apply anti-inflammatory creams on the bump 

Surgery is considered if the mass increases in size and the patient continues to feel pain after non-surgical methods are tried.

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

The field of medicine that is called podiatry treats conditions of the feet, ankles, and lower legs. The feet are considered to be the foundation of the body, and foot pain can wreak havoc on an individual’s quality of life. Foot pain can range from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly to enduring a traumatic or sudden foot injury. There are several branches of podiatry, consisting of sports medicine, forensic podiatry, and onco-podiatry, and qualified students can choose which one is best for them after completing an extensive education. This can begin with earning a bachelor’s degree, followed by pursuing a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) program that will take four years. A surgery residency program begins at this time, which typically takes place in a hospital or clinic setting. Podiatrists can choose to have a private or group practice, work in extended care facilities, or practice in various health departments. If you are interested in pursuing a career as a podiatrist, it is suggested that you speak to this type of doctor who can address any concerns and answer any questions you may have. 

If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact Gary L. Curson, DPM from Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.

What Do Podiatrists Do?

On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:

• Diagnose foot ailments such as ulcers, tumors, fractures, etc.
• Use innovative methods to treat conditions
• Use corrective orthotics, casts, and strappings to correct deformities
• Correct walking patterns and balance
• Provide individual consultations to patients

It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.

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