A common problem for women who wear high heels daily or more than two times a week is thinning of the fat pad at the ball of the foot. The abnormal postioning of the foot in high heel shoes creates pressure on the ball of the foot. This causes thinning of the natural protective fat pad layer over time leading to a condition called metatarsalgia. Dr. Nathan Lucas uses a treatement - an injection of the filler Sculptra - to replace the fat pad and plump the area. The treatment lasts approximately 12- 14 months depending on the length of time spent wearing high heels.

Ladies, Wear Those High Heels Comfortably

A common problem for women who wear high heels daily or more than two times a week is thinning of the fat pad at the ball of the foot. The abnormal postioning of the foot in high heel shoes creates pressure on the ball of the foot. This causes thinning of the natural protective fat pad layer over time leading to a condition called metatarsalgia. Dr. Nathan Lucas uses a treatement - an injection of the filler Sculptra - to replace the fat pad and plump the area. The treatment lasts approximately 12- 14 months depending on the length of time spent wearing high heels.

Heel pain is most often caused by plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the long, dense band of connective tissue (the plantar fascia) that runs from the heel to the ball of the foot.

Repeated strain on the plantar fascia can cause tiny tears in the ligament. As tension and tearing increases, so does inflammation and irritation of the affected area. Risk factors of plantar fasciitis include foot arch problems (flat foot and high arches); excess weight; running; and a tight Achilles tendon.
The most common complaint of plantar fasciitis is pain in the bottom of the heel that develops gradually. The pain is usually worse in the morning and after sitting or standing for a long period of time. For some, the pain subsides after walking or stretching.
To reduce pain associated with plantar fasciitis:

• Rest. Limit and/or avoid activities that make your heel hurt.
• Ice. Reduce pain and swelling by icing the affected area each day.
• Stretch. Stretch your heel throughout the day, especially when you first wake up in the morning.
• Footwear modifications. Wear shoes that provide good arch support and a cushioned sole. Ask your podiatrist about pads and shoe inserts to relieve your heel pain.

When conservative treatments aren't effective or your pain persists for more than a few weeks, schedule an appointment with Advanced Foot and Ankle Care of Memphis LLC to discuss your symptoms and treatment options. A podiatrist can recommend an appropriate treatment plan for your individual needs. This may include, stretching exercises, shoe padding, orthotic devices, night splints or therapy. Most patients respond to non-surgical treatments, but for pain that won't go away, surgery may be considered.

With proper rest and treatment, recovering from plantar fasciitis can take just a few months. Visit us at Advanced Foot and Ankle Care of Memphis LLC when you first experience pain for a proper diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan for your individual needs.

Characterized by thick, unsightly, discolored nails, fungus-infected toenails can be irritating, embarrassing and painful. For years, the only treatments available for toenail fungus were topical and oral medications or removal of the nail. Typically, the medications were largely ineffective and removal of the nail plate was painful and debilitating.

Fast, Effective and Pain Free Nail Fungus Treatment from Advanced Foot and Ankle Care of Memphis LLC

A new breakthrough in technology is making it possible to get rid of your nail fungus fast- a new procedure known as PinPointe FootLaser. The new, patented laser technology treats nail fungus safely and quickly with no drugs, no anesthesia and no pain. It's specially designed to penetrate your toenail, vaporizing the fungus embedded deep in your nail bed. Better yet, the powerful laser beam targets the infection only and has no effect on surrounding healthy tissue. In just one appointment at our Memphis office we can treat your nail fungus, and within months following the treatment, the toenail will replace itself with a healthy, clear, fungus free nail.

Avoiding Irritating Toenail Fungus

Prevention is key to avoiding a fungal infection. The following tips can help you avoid toenail fungus.

• Practice good hygiene and inspect feet and toes regularly
• Try not to injure your nail by cutting it too short, as trauma to the nail may lead to infection
• Wear moisture wicking socks
• Wear dry, proper-fitting shoes that allow air to circulate around your feet
• Wear shower sandals when you are at a public pool or shower

Left untreated, a fungal infection can spread to other toenails, the skin on the feet and even the fingernails. Severe cases can impair one's ability to walk or lead to painful ingrown toenails. It's important to seek care when you notice signs of infection.

If you're ready to eliminate your toenail fungus, contact our Memphis office and learn more about the new PinPointe FootLaser. We can evaluate your fungal infection and make recommendations for best treating and eradicating your toenail fungus once and for all.