Healthy feet support movement throughout the day, yet foot health is often overlooked until discomfort develops. Walking and standing place repeated pressure on the feet, making proper support important for comfortable movement. Each foot contains numerous bones, joints, and muscles that work together to maintain balance and absorb impact. When these structures experience excessive strain, problems such as heel pain, arch discomfort, or skin irritation may develop. Footwear plays a role in everyday foot care. Shoes that fit poorly may create pressure points, while inadequate cushioning or support may contribute to discomfort during activity. Foot needs vary depending on a person's activity level and foot structure. Understanding how daily movement affects the feet helps explain why regular attention to foot health matters.

Foot problems may begin with subtle changes that grow over time. Some individuals experience aching after long periods of standing, while others develop soreness during walking or exercise. Blisters and calluses may form when repeated friction or pressure affects the skin. Changes in foot shape or joint movement may also influence how weight is distributed during each step. For example, limited flexibility or uneven pressure may contribute to discomfort in the heel or forefoot. Foot pain sometimes causes individuals to change their walking patterns, placing additional stress on nearby joints. Persistent tenderness, swelling, or difficulty wearing shoes often indicate that an underlying problem needs attention. Because the feet support the body's weight daily, discomfort may affect mobility and participation in regular activities. Recognizing changes early helps identify potential concerns before they interfere further with daily movement.

Podiatric care plays an important role in maintaining foot health and addressing problems that affect comfort and mobility. A podiatrist evaluates foot structure, skin health, and walking patterns to identify possible causes of discomfort. During an examination, the podiatrist may assess areas of pressure and determine whether footwear is contributing to recurring irritation. Depending on the findings, treatment may focus on relieving painful pressure, improving foot support, or addressing changes in joint function. Podiatrists also evaluate persistent skin concerns and other foot problems that may make walking uncomfortable. Individualized care considers daily activities and the specific needs of each patient, helping support long-term foot function. If you are experiencing recurring foot pain or changes in your foot health, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Katie Besselman, DPM from Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Peters, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pain deep in the back of the ankle may come from a small extra bone called the os trigonum. This bone develops when a small section of the talus, the main ankle bone, remains separate as a child grows. Most people with this extra bone never experience symptoms. However, an ankle injury or repeated downward pointing of the toes may pinch the bone and nearby tissue. The resulting irritation is called os trigonum syndrome. Ballet dancers, soccer players, and runners face increased risk because their activities repeatedly place the ankle in positions that squeeze this area.

Symptoms include pain behind the ankle, swelling, and tenderness. Pointing the toes or pushing off the foot usually makes the discomfort worse. Some patients also notice stiffness that limits ankle movement. Pain may develop gradually with repeated activity or appear after an ankle sprain. Because these symptoms resemble Achilles tendon problems and other ankle injuries, an accurate diagnosis is important. A podiatrist reviews the patient's activities and injury history before examining the painful area. The examination includes checking ankle movement and locating tenderness. X-rays reveal the extra bone, while an MRI provides more detail about inflammation and nearby tissue. Finding an os trigonum on an X-ray alone does not prove it causes the pain.

Treatment focuses on relieving pressure and settling inflammation. A podiatrist may prescribe a walking boot to restrict painful ankle movement and protect the irritated area. Treatment also includes assessing whether a brace would provide appropriate support. Follow-up visits help the podiatrist track healing and guide a gradual return to activity. When symptoms persist, surgery to remove the extra bone offers another option. The podiatrist explains the procedure and expected recovery based on the patient's condition and activity goals. If you have symptoms of os trigonum syndrome, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact Katie Besselman, DPM of Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Peters, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel pad syndrome develops when the natural fat pad beneath the heel becomes irritated, worn, or less able to absorb impact. This cushioning normally protects the heel bone from pressure during walking and running. When the heel pad does not provide enough protection, each step can feel uncomfortable. A common symptom is deep pain in the middle of the heel. Many people describe the sensation as feeling like a bruise on the bottom of the foot. Pain may become more noticeable after standing or walking on hard surfaces.

Several factors increase the risk of heel pad syndrome. Age is an important factor because the heel pad can become thinner and less flexible over time. Foot structure may also affect how pressure is distributed during movement. Running, prolonged standing, and walking on hard surfaces can repeatedly load the heel pad. Wearing unsupportive footwear may further increase pressure and reduce natural cushioning.

Symptoms can vary depending on how much stress the heel experiences. Deep heel pain may appear after exercise or a long day on your feet. The center of the heel may feel tender when pressed, especially after repeated impact. Rest may reduce symptoms, but pain can return when normal activity resumes. Recognizing these changes early helps prevent ongoing irritation and makes it easier to protect the heel during daily activities.

A podiatrist will examine the heel and determine whether heel pad syndrome is causing your pain. The evaluation may include checking tenderness, foot structure, and footwear. Imaging may be recommended when another heel problem needs to be ruled out. Treatment options include wearing cushioned footwear, heel cups, and methods to reduce pressure. A podiatrist may also recommend gradual changes to exercise and daily routines while the heel recovers. If you have persistent heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat heel pad syndrome. 

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Katie Besselman, DPM of Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Peters, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fasciitis develops when the plantar fascia becomes irritated. The plantar fascia is a strong band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot from the heel toward the toes. It helps support the arch and absorbs stress when standing or walking. Repeated strain on this tissue leads to heel pain and tenderness. Factors that contribute include long periods of standing, increased physical activity, and changes in foot structure. Shoes that lack proper support also place added stress on the plantar fascia. Pain is usually felt near the bottom of the heel. It is especially noticeable with the first steps after getting out of bed or after sitting for an extended period.

A podiatrist evaluates plantar fasciitis by examining the foot and identifying areas of pain or tenderness. An examination includes checking the arch, ankle movement, and foot flexibility. The podiatrist also observes how the patient stands and walks in order to identify movement patterns that could place added stress on the plantar fascia. Treatment is focused on reducing strain while improving foot support and function. Custom orthotics help distribute pressure more evenly and support the arch. A podiatrist may recommend shoes that provide appropriate cushioning and support. Targeted treatment also improves flexibility and addresses tight tissues that contribute to heel discomfort.

Plantar fasciitis makes standing, walking, and completing daily activities uncomfortable. Patients can change the way they walk to avoid pressure on the painful heel, which places additional stress on other areas of the foot. A podiatrist identifies these changes and develops a treatment plan based on the patient's symptoms and foot structure. Care is focused on reducing painful pressure and improving the way the foot functions. Treatment can be adjusted according to the patient's activity level and response to care. Addressing the factors that place strain on the plantar fascia supports more comfortable movement and better foot function. If you have symptoms of plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Katie Besselman, DPM  from Advanced Podiatry. 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 our office located in Saint Peters, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.