Items filtered by date: June 2025

Plantar fasciitis occurs when the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed, often causing sharp heel pain, especially with the first steps in the morning. It can be caused by overuse, poor footwear, excessive standing, or foot structure issues. Symptoms include heel pain, tightness, and tenderness along the arch. Helpful exercises include toe lifts to strengthen the foot, towel stretches to improve flexibility, and heel raises to support the arch. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition, recommend custom orthotics, and guide treatment to reduce pain and prevent recurrence. If heel pain is affecting your daily life, it is suggested that you seek professional help from a podiatrist to begin healing, enabling an accelerated return to normal activity.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Michael A. Wood  from Foot Health Institute. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Lansing, and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Deciding on limb salvage in diabetic foot cases involves evaluating several serious factors. A life threatening infection that does not respond to treatment may require urgent attention. Severe deformities that cannot be corrected and prevent proper function or healing also influence the decision. Additionally, if blood flow to the foot cannot be restored, tissue may not survive, making salvage unlikely. A podiatrist plays a vital role by assessing the severity of infection, circulation, and structural changes. They collaborate with other specialists to explore all possible treatments before considering limb loss. If you or a loved one is facing complex diabetic foot issues, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist to discuss options and develop the best possible care plan.

Limb salvage can be an effective way in preventing the need for limb amputation. If you have diabetes, cancer, or any other condition that could lead to foot amputation if left unchecked, consult with Dr. Michael A. Wood from Foot Health Institute. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Limb Salvage?

Limb salvage is the attempt of saving a limb, such as the foot from amputation. Podiatrists also try to make sure that there is enough function in the foot after the salvage that it is still usable. Diabetes is the number one cause of non-traumatic amputations in the United States. Those with diabetes experience poor blood circulation, which prevents proper healing of an ulcer. If the ulcer is left uncheck, it could become infected, which could result in the need for amputation.

However, there are other causes as well, such as cancer and traumatic injury. Links between higher mortality rates and amputation have been found. This translates into higher healthcare costs, and a reduced quality of life and mobility for amputees. Podiatrists have attempted to increase the prevalence of limb salvage in an attempt to solve these issues.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Limb salvage teams have grown in recent years that utilize a number of different treatments to save the infected limb. This includes podiatrists that specialize in wound care, rehabilitation, orthotics, and surgery. Through a combination of these methods, limb salvage has been found to be an effective treatment for infected limbs, and as an alternative to amputation. Podiatrists will first evaluate the potential for limb salvage and determine if the limb can be saved or must be amputated. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Lansing, and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, occur when the arch of the foot collapses, causing the entire sole to make contact with the ground. This condition can be present from childhood or develop over time due to aging, injury, obesity, or conditions like arthritis. People with flat feet may experience foot pain, especially in the arch or heel, along with swelling, fatigue, or an uneven gait. Some may also feel pain in the knees, hips, or lower back due to improper alignment caused by poor foot structure. A podiatrist can diagnose flat feet through a physical exam, gait analysis, and imaging studies if needed. Treatment includes custom orthotics to support the arch, targeted exercise, supportive footwear, or activity modifications. In severe cases, surgery may be considered to correct the structural issues. If you have issues related to your flat feet, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage your foot health. 

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Michael A. Wood from Foot Health Institute. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Lansing, and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Osteoporosis weakens foot bones by lowering their mineral density, making the feet more vulnerable to stress fractures and deformities. The bones in the feet are under constant pressure during walking and standing, and weakened bone structure increases the risk of small, fatigue-related foot fractures. In some patients, uneven posture or poor gait can worsen this by concentrating pressure on specific areas of the foot. Osteoporosis may also contribute to changes in foot shape due to bone loss, leading to pain and mobility issues. A podiatrist can assess posture, identify areas of abnormal pressure using diagnostic imaging and pressure mapping, and recommend medical treatment to reduce fracture risk. In some cases, surgery may be needed if fractures occur or deformities become severe. Ongoing monitoring may be necessary to catch early signs of deterioration and avoid complications, especially in older adults and people with diabetes. If the bones in your feet are cracking, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Michael A. Wood from Foot Health Institute. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Lansing, and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.