Calluses

Learn More About Calluses on the Feet

Calluses may look unattractive, but they have a purpose. These thick areas of skin are created due to an adaptation. They are part of the body's defense system, so they protect the hands and feet from excessive stress and pressure. Those who play sports - like gymnasts - or play music - like guitarists - tend to get calluses on their hands. Sometimes people get calluses on their feet, though, and these can be painful. Richland podiatrist Dr. Darian VanGorkum can help manage foot calluses so you can walk without pain.

Callus Prevention

The best form of treatment is prevention. Prevent calluses from occurring by wearing more comfortable shoes. Get rid of the ill-fitting high heels. Adjust your posture and gait so you distribute your weight across the entire foot - not just certain areas. Wear inserts, especially if you don't have a lot of padding between your foot bones and skin. This will keep the bottoms of your feet from absorbing all the pressure.

Callus Treatment

Foot soaks and files are at-home treatments that are usually effective for calluses. Pumice stones and pedicures may also be helpful. Pads can also relieve pain. Some are non-medicated, while others contain salicylic acid. If the callus is painful, ask your doctor to remove it. Do not attempt to cut it off, as this can cause an infection.

Prevention and Treatment are Just a Phone Call Away

If you're having recurring issues with calluses or just need some tips on prevention and treatment, an appointment with a podiatrist may be helpful. To get relief, contact Richland podiatrist Dr. Darian VanGorkum at (509) 946-7602 or (509) 943-9389.

www.columbiafoot.com

Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar Fasciitis

The bottom of your foot has a thick tissue on it known as the plantar fascia. This attaches your toes and heel bone creating the arch you have on your foot. When this thick tissue becomes inflamed or swollen, it is referred to as plantar fasciitis. When you start having problems with your feet or experience heel pain, it can affect your overall well-being, since your feet are the entire foundation of your body. Visiting us here at Columbia Foot Health Clinic could be your answer as we understand your plantar fasciitis pain and help you to feel better.

Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis

Mild cases of plantar fasciitis can be treated successfully at home. More moderate to severe cases and chronic plantar fasciitis conditions benefit from medical treatments.

Home Treatments

Our podiatrist in Richland, WA, Dr. Darian VanGorkum, DPM, FACFAS initially has you apply ice at home for around 20 minutes 3 to 4 times a day to reduce your inflammation. You might have to reduce or change your strenuous exercise activities, and instead perform foot exercises to stretch your plantar fascia.

Medical Treatments

If you experience pain for over three weeks, Dr. VanGorkum treats it with things like:

• Foot Taping
• Orthotics
• Night Splints
• Cortisone Injections
• Anti-Inflammatories

These types of treatments have been shown to decrease symptoms effectively; however, if you have a stubborn case, you might need physical therapy or shock-wave therapy which is a plantar fasciitis treatment that is FDA approved.

For cases that don't respond to the above care, surgical release of the plantar fascia can be considered. 

Contact us today at 509-946-7602 to learn how Dr. VanGorkum can help treat and eliminate your plantar fasciitis so you can go back to being pain free.

http://www.columbiafoot.com