What is a Podiatrist and How Can They Help You?

A New Year Shouldn’t Start With Pain The beginning of a new year often comes with fresh goals—being more active, feeling healthier, and getting back to routines you enjoy. But heel pain can quickly get in the way. When every step hurts, even small tasks can feel frustrating. Heel pain is one of the most common foot issues treated by podiatrists. Many people try to ignore it or hope it will go away on its own, but without proper care, heel pain often lingers or gets worse over time. Why Heel Pain Happens Heel pain can develop for several reasons, and it often builds gradually. One of the most common causes is plantar fasciitis, which occurs when the tissue supporting the arch of the foot becomes inflamed. Other causes may include strain on the Achilles tendon, wearing shoes without proper support, or spending long hours on your feet. Pain is often most noticeable in the morning or after long periods of rest. While it may ease as you move around, it tends to return and can worsen without treatment. Common Conditions Linked to Heel Pain While heel pain feels similar for many people, the underlying cause can vary. Some of the most common conditions include: Plantar fasciitis Heel spurs Achilles tendon irritation Overuse or repetitive strain injuries Identifying the exact cause is key to getting the right treatment and long-term relief. Why Early Treatment Matters Ignoring heel pain can lead to changes in the way you walk. Over time, this can place added stress on your ankles, knees, hips, and lower back. What starts as foot pain can turn into discomfort throughout your body. Seeing a podiatrist early can help prevent these issues and reduce recovery time. Most heel pain can be treated without surgery when addressed promptly. How a Podiatrist Can Help A podiatrist specializes in foot and ankle care and can create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Treatment may include stretching exercises, custom orthotics, footwear guidance, or other therapies designed to reduce pain and inflammation. With the right approach, many patients begin to feel relief and regain mobility. Step Into the New Year With Confidence Heel pain does not have to define your year. With proper care and treatment, you can move more comfortably and get back to doing the things you enjoy. If heel pain is holding you back, schedule a visit with a podiatrist and take the first step toward a healthier, pain-free new year.

A new year is the perfect time to focus on your health—starting from the ground up. As we head into 2026, taking care of your feet can help you stay active, comfortable, and ready for everything the year brings. Why Foot Health Matters in the New Year Healthy feet support your overall mobility and daily comfort. Common foot problems can make walking, standing, and even simple activities difficult. Early care can prevent small issues from becoming bigger ones.  You may benefit from a podiatry visit if you have: Heel or arch pain Flat feet or high arches Foot or ankle injuries Toenail problems Corns, calluses, or skin issues Pain that keeps coming back How We Help You Start the Year Strong Our podiatry team provides: Comprehensive Foot Exams to identify pain or concerns Treatment Plans for chronic or sudden foot issues Custom Orthotics for support and alignment Footwear Guidance to reduce discomfort and improve stability Preventive Care to keep your feet healthy long-term Start 2026 With Healthy, Pain-Free Feet Make this the year you put your foot health first. Schedule an appointment today to address any concerns and step into 2026 with confidence, comfort, and support.

December is the season of giving, and there’s no better gift than comfort. If you’re looking for something meaningful, helpful, and long-lasting, custom orthotics are a great choice. They support the feet, improve balance, and make everyday activities easier and more comfortable. Why Orthotics Make a Great Gift Many people struggle with foot pain, tired feet, or discomfort when walking or standing. Custom orthotics can help by: Reducing foot, heel, and arch pain Providing better alignment and support Improving comfort during work, exercise, and daily routines Helping prevent future foot problems They are a thoughtful gift for anyone—especially those who stay on their feet all day, enjoy being active, or dealing with ongoing foot issues. How Our Team Can Help Our podiatry team offers: Custom Orthotic Fittings tailored to your foot shape and needs Foot Evaluations to identify pain points and pressure areas Supportive Shoe Recommendations for everyday comfort Ongoing Care for long-term foot health Give Comfort This Christmas If you’re searching for a gift that truly helps someone feel better, custom orthotics are a smart and meaningful choice. Contact our office to schedule an appointment or learn more about how orthotics can bring comfort all year long.

November marks National Diabetes Awareness Month , a time dedicated to raising awareness, supporting those affected, and sharing ways to live healthier with diabetes. With diabetes impacting millions of Americans, proactive foot care remains one of the most important—and often overlooked—parts of diabetes management. Why Foot Health Matters Diabetes can affect the feet in several ways, and early prevention is key. High blood sugar levels may lead to: Nerve damage (neuropathy) that causes numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation Reduced blood flow , slowing the healing process Higher risk of infections, wounds, and ulcers , which can become serious if left untreated Healthy, routine foot care can help prevent complications and support mobility, comfort, and long-term wellness. How Our Podiatry Team Supports Diabetic Foot Health We provide comprehensive diabetic foot care to protect, prevent, and treat foot-related concerns, including: Routine Diabetic Foot Exams Early detection and intervention to address concerns before they become more serious. Custom Orthotics Personalized support to improve balance, relieve pressure points, and enhance walking comfort. Advanced Wound Care Specialized treatment plans for wounds, ulcers, or injuries to promote faster healing and reduce risks. Footwear Guidance Recommendations for proper shoes and inserts designed to prevent irritation, friction, and injury. We’re Here to Help You Stay Healthy Caring for your feet is an essential part of staying active, independent, and healthy with diabetes. Whether you have questions about preventive care, footwear, or treatment options, our podiatrists are here to guide and support you every step of the way. This month is a great time to schedule a diabetic foot check or talk with us about ways to keep your feet protected year-round. Together, we can work toward better foot health and a healthier life with diabetes.

If you’ve ever felt sudden pain in your big toe after running, jumping, or pushing off during sports, you may have experienced turf toe . This injury happens when the big toe joint bends too far upward, stretching or tearing the soft tissues that support it.

As temperatures drop and race season picks up, fall is the perfect time to refresh your running gear and hit the pavement, trails, or treadmill with confidence. Whether you’re training for your first 5K, prepping for a marathon, or simply enjoying crisp outdoor walks, choosing the right running shoe is essential to protecting your feet and keeping you moving injury-free. Our podiatrists—experts in both foot health and running biomechanics—have shared their top shoe recommendations to suit a wide range of runners, foot types, and fall activities. �55356;�57283;‍♀️ Best for Everyday Training & Long Distances Hoka Clifton 10 This lightweight, max-cushioned shoe is a favorite among neutral runners. It’s a reliable “workhorse” option for everyday runs or long distances, with plush support and breathable materials. Heel and midfoot strikers will appreciate the comfort, while the soft interior cushions repetitive impact—ideal for runners logging serious miles.  �55358;�56781;‍♂️ Best for Stability & Support Puma ForeverRun Nitro 2 Need more structure? This stability shoe offers broad midfoot support and a snug heel for added control, making it a great choice for overpronators or those seeking extra reinforcement on long runs. A springy midsole absorbs shock and protects joints on hard surfaces like concrete and asphalt. ASICS Gel-Kayano 32 Another top-tier pick for stability, the Kayano provides plush cushioning and firm arch support. It’s a go-to option for marathoners or anyone prone to overpronation looking for long-lasting comfort on high-mileage days. Brooks Adrenaline GTS Flat-footed runners love this shoe for its supportive structure and reliable cushioning. It’s an excellent balance of motion control and responsiveness, keeping your gait aligned and reducing injury risk over time. �55357;�56415; Best for Beginners or Versatile Runners Brooks Ghost 17 A crowd favorite for its balanced cushioning, smooth transitions, and lightweight feel. This versatile shoe is perfect for newer runners or those unsure of their foot strike pattern. With updates that benefit both forefoot and heel strikers, it’s a safe bet for most training needs. ASICS Gel-Nimbus & Saucony Triumph These shoes are excellent options for runners with high arches who need a bit more cushioning and comfort for impact protection. �55356;�57138; Best for Trail Running Altra Olympus 6 For runners who prefer rugged terrain and natural surfaces, the Olympus 6 provides ample protection from rocks, roots, and uneven trails—without sacrificing comfort. It’s well-padded to prevent foot fatigue and boasts a roomy toe box, making it ideal for wide-footed runners or those who prefer a zero-drop design for a more grounded feel. �55356;�57119; Honorable Mentions by Foot Type For Flat Feet: Brooks Adrenaline GTS, ASICS Gel Kayano 32, Hoka Gaviota, Saucony Guide For High Arches: Brooks Ghost, ASICS Gel Nimbus, Saucony Triumph For Plantar Fasciitis: Brooks Adrenaline, ASICS Kayano, Hoka Clifton or Bondi For Wide Feet/Minimalist Preference: Altra Torin — known for a zero-drop platform and wide toe box �55356;�57281; Final Tips for Race Season Whether you're training for a fall race or upping your fitness game, remember: the right shoe can make all the difference in performance and injury prevention. If you’re experiencing discomfort, blisters, heel pain, or foot fatigue, it may be time for a professional shoe assessment—or a podiatric consultation. Our podiatry team is here to help you put your best foot forward this fall. Schedule an appointment to get fitted for the perfect pair and make sure your feet are race-day ready!

As the school year kicks off, most parents are focused on school supplies, lunchboxes, and new routines—but one of the most important back-to-school essentials is often overlooked: a good pair of shoes. Children and teens spend hours on their feet every day—walking through school hallways, running during recess, or playing sports after school. The right footwear doesn’t just offer comfort; it plays a vital role in supporting growing feet, preventing injuries, and setting kids up for a healthy, confident school year.

Your feet are the foundation of your entire body — when they’re not properly supported, it can lead to pain not just in your feet, but in your ankles, knees, hips, and back, too. That’s where custom orthotics come in!

As temperatures rise and flip-flops come out in full force, it’s important not to overlook your feet when it comes to summer care. Whether you're heading to the beach, walking around amusement parks, or just enjoying backyard barbecues, your feet need protection and support to keep you moving comfortably all season long.