FAQs

Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that causes pain and inflammation in the bottom of the foot, specifically in the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that connects the heel to the toes. There are a variety of treatment options for plantar fasciitis:

As a podiatrist at Sydenham Podiatry, when a patient presents with this condition, I first assess their symptoms to determine the best course of treatment for them.

One of the most common treatments I recommend is rest and ice. Patients should avoid activities that aggravate their symptoms and use ice packs to reduce pain and inflammation.

Stretching and exercises can also be helpful in reducing symptoms, and I often provide patients with specific stretches and exercises to perform at home.

I also recommend footwear modifications, such as wearing shoes with good arch support and cushioning, to reduce pressure on the plantar fascia. In some cases, custom orthotics can provide additional support and cushioning to the foot, reducing stress on the plantar fascia.

For patients with more severe symptoms, I may refer them to physical therapy to receive specialized treatment and rehabilitation exercises. Medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can also be helpful in reducing pain and inflammation.

Injections with corticosteroids are another treatment option that I may consider for patients with persistent symptoms. However, surgery is typically only considered as a last resort, when other treatment options have failed to provide relief.

Overall, the treatment approach for plantar fasciitis is individualized, and I work closely with each patient to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses their specific symptoms and needs.

Upon examination, if I determine that you have an ingrown toenail, my first step will be to recommend soaking the affected toe in warm water for 15 to 20 minutes, several times a day. This can help to reduce pain and swelling.

I will then carefully trim the nail, removing any portion that is pressing into the surrounding skin.

Depending on the severity of the ingrown nail, I may prescribe an antibiotic ointment or oral medication to prevent or treat infection.

If the ingrown toenail is a recurrent issue, I may recommend a minor surgical procedure to remove a portion of the nail and prevent further ingrowth. This is usually performed under local anesthesia in our office, and most patients can return to normal activities the next day.

To prevent ingrown toenails in the future, I will provide you with advice on proper nail trimming technique, appropriate footwear, and any other steps you can take to avoid this painful condition.

As your podiatrist, my goal is to provide you with the highest quality care for your ingrown toenail, with a focus on reducing pain and discomfort and promoting quick and effective healing. If you have any questions or concerns about your treatment plan, please don't hesitate to reach out to me at any time.

Orthotics are custom-made inserts designed to fit comfortably inside your shoes and provide additional support and cushioning for your feet. They can be made from a variety of materials and can be tailored to your specific needs, depending on the type and severity of your foot condition.

Orthotics can be helpful for a variety of foot and ankle conditions, including plantar fasciitis, flat feet, high arches, and arthritis. They can help to redistribute pressure on your feet and provide additional shock absorption, which can reduce pain and discomfort.

Orthotics can also help to correct foot and ankle alignment issues, which can help to alleviate pain and prevent further damage to your feet. They can be particularly helpful for individuals who spend a lot of time on their feet, or who engage in high-impact activities like running or jumping.

Additionally, orthotics can help to improve balance and stability, which can reduce the risk of falls and other injuries. They can also help to prevent or correct foot deformities, such as bunions or hammertoes.

At Sydenham Podiatry, we offer custom-made orthotics designed to meet your unique needs and provide the support and cushioning your feet need to stay healthy and pain-free.

If you are experiencing foot or ankle pain, or are concerned about a potential foot condition, please don't hesitate to contact us to schedule an appointment and learn more about how orthotics can help.