January 2024

Plantar fasciitis, a common and painful foot condition, is influenced by various risk factors. Age plays a role, with the condition being more prevalent in individuals between 40 and 60 years old, as the plantar fascia tends to lose elasticity with age. Engaging in high-impact activities, like running or dancing, can strain the plantar fascia, making physical activity another risk factor. Abnormal foot mechanics, such as flat feet or high arches, alter the distribution of pressure on the plantar fascia, increasing the risk. Obesity adds extra stress to the feet and can lead to plantar fasciitis, while jobs requiring prolonged standing or walking on hard surfaces can also contribute. Improper footwear choices lacking arch support or cushioning can strain the plantar fascia, as does having a tight Achilles tendon. Finally, sudden increases in physical activity intensity or duration can overload the plantar fascia, causing inflammation. If you have heel pain that does not abate, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment options that are appropriate for you.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Ronald K. Olm  from Grand Traverse Foot & Ankle Center. 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 Traverse City and Kalkaska, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, affects many people, causing thickened, crumbling, and discolored nails. While traditional treatments have limitations, laser therapy has emerged as a promising solution. Laser treatment for fungal toenails shows potential in inhibiting fungal growth and clearing infections. This option is particularly beneficial for individuals with kidney or liver disease, diabetes, or medication intolerance. Experts stress early intervention to prevent the spread of toenail fungus to other body areas. Laser treatment typically involves two sessions, with results becoming apparent in approximately two months. Comprehensive treatment covers all nails in the affected area, and is often complemented by topical creams for enhanced efficacy. Patience is an important factor in recovery from fungal toenail infections. Toenails may require up to 18 months for the nail to completely grow out. Laser treatment provides a ray of hope for those with persistent fungal nail infections. To find out more about treating toenail fungus, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

Laser treatment can be an effective way to get rid of toenail fungus. If you have any questions about laser treatment, consult with Dr. Ronald K. Olm from Grand Traverse Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment for fungal nails.

What Are Toenail Fungal Infections?

Onychomycosis, or fungal infection of the nail, is a relatively common and non-serious condition. Around 10 percent of U.S. citizens are afflicted with fungal nails. Common forms of fungus that infect the nail include dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds.

Symptoms of Toenail Fungal Infections Include:

• Nail thickening
• Brittleness of the nail
• Discoloration of the nail

Diagnosis for Fungal Nails

Fungal infections are diagnosed by fungal culture and microscopy. This will rule out any other conditions such as nail trauma, psoriasis, lichen planus, and onychogryphosis.

What Is Laser Treatment?

Laser treatment is a non-invasive, safe, quick, and painless procedure that uses the heat from a laser to kill fungus in the nail. Each infected nail is targeted with a laser for several minutes. The treatment is usually utilized several different times over a select period. During this time, a podiatrist will keep an eye on the infection.

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

Tailor's bunions, also known as bunionettes, present a unique challenge with a bony lump on the outside of the foot around the small toe joint. While tight and ill-fitting shoes can exacerbate the issue, the exact cause of bunionettes is not fully understood. Inherited factors and the natural shape of foot bones play a significant role in bunionette formation. Causes include previous toe joint injuries, joint hypermobility, age, inflammatory arthritic conditions, tight leg muscles, and neuromuscular conditions. Footwear can also play a significant role. Tailor's bunions can cause discomfort and pain by putting pressure on the joint, bursa, and surrounding nerves. Treatment can include rest and elevation, applying a cold compress, and choosing footwear with cushioned heels, and good arch support. Further, using insoles, engaging in regular stretching and foot exercises, and exploring activities that put minimal pressure on the feet, such as swimming, may help. Weight management may also be beneficial.  Footwear to avoid include wearing high heels and tight shoes, in addition to prolonged standing and walking barefoot on hard surfaces. If you have a bunionette that is causing discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Dr. Ronald K. Olm of Grand Traverse Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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

Foot injuries can make any sport challenging, even impossible. Pain in different parts of the foot is a common problem for skaters. It is important to identify the source of the pain, whether you skate for recreation or competitively. While rest and self-care can help, persistent symptoms should prompt a visit to a podiatrist. Make sure to bring your skates for evaluation, as poorly fitted boots can contribute to the problem. Boots that fit properly are essential for injury prevention and improved performance. Some common boot related problems can include wearing overly tight or large boots, excessive lacing over the instep, lace bite, blisters, and pressure-related issues. In addition to boot related problems, skaters can experience various foot injuries, such as malleolar bursitis, Achilles tendon issues, plantar fasciitis, and metatarsal stress fractures. Inline and roller skating activities involve quick turns, stops, and advanced maneuvers that put stress on the feet and ankles. If you participate in skating sports and have foot or ankle discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper evaluation and treatment.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Dr. Ronald K. Olm of Grand Traverse Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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

As individuals age, the importance of comprehensive healthcare extends to often overlooked areas, and one such critical aspect is foot health. Foot exams for elderly patients are integral in preventing, identifying, and addressing potential issues that can significantly impact their overall well-being. Aging brings about changes in foot structure, reduced skin elasticity, and diminished sensory perception, making the elderly more susceptible to foot problems. Routine foot examinations can detect early signs of conditions like arthritis, diabetes-related complications, and circulatory issues. Assessing foot health aids in preventing falls, a prevalent concern for the elderly, by addressing issues related to balance and stability. Additionally, podiatrists can identify and manage common foot ailments like bunions, corns, and fungal infections, enhancing mobility and comfort. Regular foot exams empower elderly individuals to actively participate in their health, fostering independence and ensuring that any potential foot-related concerns are addressed promptly, contributing to an overall better quality of life. If you are elderly or caring for an older person, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can perform regular foot exams.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Ronald K. Olm from Grand Traverse Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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