About 80% of Americans experience foot pain at some point. Whether it’s sudden-onset, like a sports injury, or a long-term problem like a neuroma, Tampa Bay Foot and Ankle in St. Petersburg, Florida, has foot pain covered. Skilled podiatrist Eric Roberts, DPM, FACFAS, AACFAOM, is a foot pain expert who uses the most up-to-date treatment innovations to relieve your pain and help you enjoy daily life again. Call the office now or book an appointment online anytime.
Some of the many common causes of foot pain include:
Tendinitis is tendon inflammation that causes pain. Although tendinitis can occur in many parts of the body, the most common type in the foot and ankle area is Achilles tendinitis.
This kind of tendinitis affects the Achilles tendon that spans your lower calf and heel area to connect your calf muscles and heel. Tendinitis is usually caused by repetitive motion over a long period of time.
A neuroma is a small mass of nerve tissue that usually grows on the ball of your foot between your third and fourth toes. Neuromas may feel as if you have a pebble in your shoe. They’re often painful and may cause symptoms like numbness and tingling.
A neuroma can develop for many reasons, including biomechanical foot deformity, foot trauma, repetitive foot stress, and footwear (such as high heels) that bunches up your toes.
Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of foot pain that’s typically centered in your heel area. This condition happens when the plantar fascia, the ligament on the bottom of your foot, develops significant tiny tears and grows inflamed. Plantar fasciitis is often caused by repetitive stress, and athletes are especially vulnerable. Obesity can also raise your risk for plantar fasciitis.
At Tampa Bay Foot and Ankle, Dr. Roberts treats every manifestation of foot pain using top-of-the-line technology.
Occasionally, foot pain is a minor problem that resolves quickly with rest, ice, compression, and elevation — the RICE protocol. If RICE doesn’t relieve your pain quickly, don’t take any chances. Reach out to Dr. Roberts at Tampa Bay Foot and Ankle as soon as possible.
Dr. Roberts tailors your foot and ankle care according to your condition, symptoms, and unique needs. In addition to continued use of the RICE protocol, your treatment plan may include:
The goal of treatment for your foot pain is to correct the problem at the source, thus relieving your pain over the long term.
Need foot pain help from an expert? Call Tampa Bay Foot and Ankle or use book an appointment online.