Treating Plantar Fasciitis with Platelet Rich Plasma

Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of a sheet-like connective tissue structure that spans from the plantar calcaneus, or heel bone of the foot, to the ball of the foot (metatarsal heads). Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain. It is sometimes also referred to as Heel Spur Syndrome (HSS). The causes of inflammation are diverse and can be due to a variety of abnormalities in gait and behavior. The most common cause in the average population is excessive pronation of the foot during walking and/or running. The plantar fascia acts to passively stabilize the arch of the foot, and also assists in propulsion during walking and running. Due to the frequency of use during normal daily activities (climbing stairs, walking, squatting, etc) the plantar fascia is prone to becoming inflamed in many individuals.

Orthotics and stretching have rightfully been a mainstay of treatment for patients with acute plantar fasciitis over the years. They’re safe, healthy ways a doctor can treat the inflammation and keep the patient on their feet. However, often times these methods fail and doctors resort to steroids or other methods such as surgery when the condition turns chronic. Dr. Michael Garvin of Port Saint Lucie, Florida suggests trying something new, and safe that avoids the pitfalls seen with steroid use, and/or surgery. Platelet rich plasma (PRP) injections have been proven by literature and research to help heal chronic wounds and ailments over the years. In fact, research has shown that 70% of patients with chronic plantar fasciitis have seen partial to full resolution of pain with treatment by PRP injections. If you have further questions about receiving this type of treatment for your chronic plantar fasciitis contact Dr. Garvin by clicking here, and also by visiting this informational page here.

**resources: podiatrytoday.com
                    harvesttech.com

Sandals 101

     

The warm weather seems to be here early this year which means that the sandals and flip flops are out and about. Do your feet a favor and don’t skimp on your choice of footwear. Often times people are apt to purchase sandals based off of looks or costs but fail to remember what is good for their feet biomechanically, or are simply unaware. If you’re an individual that has low arches or flat feet, flip flops put an extra load of stress on the plantar fascia of the plantar foot. This can cause aching pain in the heels and plantar foot. 


 If you are experiencing foot pain and frequently wear sandals consider visiting  one of Dr. Michael Garvin’s offices of Port St. Lucie, Florida. Dr. Garvin has been analyzing patient’s gaits, and their footwear choices for over 20 years. He can offer you a healthy alternative to keep your feet cool, stylish, and healthy during the warmer months!

Bunions

A bunion is an enlargement of bone or tissue around the joint at the base of the big toe. The big toe generally turns in toward the second toe and the tissues surrounding the joint becomes swollen, tender and often painful. Bunions occur more commonly in women and can sometimes run in families, making some individuals genetically pre-disposed to this condition. People born with abnormal bones in their feet are more likely to form a bunion. Wearing narrow-toed, high-heeled shoes can also lead to the development of a bunion. The condition may become painful as extra bone and a fluid-filled sac grows at the base of the big toe.

Most common reasons for the development of a bunion:                  

• If the foots shape puts too much pressure on the big toe joint.
• Because bunions can run in families, some experts believe that the inherited shape of the foot makes some people genetically pre-disposed to developing a bunion.
• If the foot rolls inward or pronates too much when walking. 
• Flat Feet.
• Wearing shoes that are too tight.

Any of these situations can apply significant pressure on the big toe joint, which over time; will force the big toe out of alignment, bending it toward the other toes.

Early diagnosis is critical. When a bunion first begins to develop, taking a few simple steps such as wearing foam pads on the foot to protect the bunion, or devices called spacers to separate the first and second toes at night can help avoid a worsening of the condition.

If the bunion gets worse, resulting in severe deformity or pain, surgery is the most effective approach to realign the toe, relieve the pain and remove the bony bump (bunionectomy). There are many different surgical techniques that can be used to treat this condition depending on the individual’s situation.

To help our patients get relief from bunion pain Dr. Garvin might recommend, wearing wider shoes, orthotics, or foot pads. Treatment such as oral anti-inflammatories and injections can also help to relieve discomfort. However, Dr. Garvin can perform same day procedures, which will have patients comfortable after just a few weeks of recovery.