Blog Articles

How to Stay Active Without Inflaming Your Heel Pain

Heel pain doesn’t have to sideline you. From swimming to stretching, find out how to exercise safely and effectively with tips for reducing pain and preventing flare-ups during your workouts.

Jan 1st, 2025

Can a Gait Analysis Help Determine the Cause of My Chronic Foot Pain?

Wondering why your foot pain lingers? Learn how gait analysis can spot subtle misalignments and muscle imbalances that might fuel your discomfort.

Dec 11th, 2024

Diabetes and Your Feet: The Telltale Signs of Peripheral Neuropathy 

Learn the early signs of peripheral neuropathy in diabetics, including numbness, tingling, and foot pain. Recognizing these symptoms can help prevent complications.

Nov 1st, 2024

Halloween Foot Safety For Kids: Avoiding Common Foot and Ankle Injuries

Keep your little monsters safe this Halloween! Follow these simple tips to prevent foot and ankle injuries while trick-or-treating.

Oct 9th, 2024

How Do Bunions Happen, and Can I Prevent Them from Developing?

Have a large bump sticking out from your big toe? It could be a bunion. Understand the factors contributing to bunion formation and take proactive steps to maintain healthy, pain-free feet.

Sep 15th, 2024

Amping Up Your Mileage? 4 Tips to Prevent Shin Splints

Don’t let shin splints be a roadblock to your run. With these tips, you can stay on track with your running goals and avoid shin splints.If you’re increasing your running mileage, you’re likely familiar with the term “shin splints.” This common condition,

Aug 6th, 2024

Why You Get Arch Pain When You Walk

Experiencing arch pain when you walk can be frustrating and impact your daily life. Learn about common causes and discover effective solutions to relieve your discomfort.

Jul 1st, 2024

Help! My Child Keeps Getting Heel Pain

Discover why your child might experience heel pain and how you can help alleviate their discomfort. Here’s what you should know about the common causes, symptoms, and effective prevention strategies.

Jun 4th, 2024

Do I Really Need to See a Podiatrist for an Ankle Sprain?

While you can often manage minor ankle sprains at home, seeking the expertise of a podiatrist can provide benefits that go beyond immediate injury management.

May 14th, 2024

Why Plantar Fasciitis Feels Worse in the Morning

Understanding the underlying causes of morning plantar fasciitis pain can empower sufferers to adopt management strategies that alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. Here’s what to do about it.

Apr 1st, 2024

When Do Heel Spurs Require Surgery?

While most heel spurs respond well to nonsurgical treatment methods, those that do not may require surgery. Here’s how to relieve heel spur pain and how to know when you may need surgery.

Mar 18th, 2024

Will an Ingrown Toenail Eventually Heal on Its Own?

While mild ingrown toenails might heal with proper home care, more severe cases require medical attention. Being proactive about foot health and seeing a podiatrist can prevent the progression of an ingrown toenail and protect your overall foot health.

Feb 1st, 2024

5 Ways Custom Orthotics Treat and Prevent Foot and Ankle Pain

Custom orthotics are prescription medical devices worn inside your shoes to treat and prevent foot and ankle pain. Here are five ways custom orthotics offer relief.

Jan 15th, 2024

3 Running Tips to Avoid Foot Injuries

Running offers cardiovascular benefits and mental well-being, but the impact can result in foot injuries. Here are tips for avoiding injuries when pounding the pavement.

Dec 19th, 2023

Do I Really Need Treatment for My Hammertoe?

Hammertoes are a common foot condition that seem like a minor inconvenience for many people. Here’s why you should not leave your hammertoe untreated.

Nov 16th, 2023

Can I Treat an Ingrown Toenail at Home?

Explore safe home remedies for ingrown toenails and learn when to seek professional care. Discover prevention tips and prioritize your foot health with guidance from Washington Foot & Ankle Sports Medicine.

Oct 1st, 2023

The Link Between Footwear and Back Pain

The relationship between footwear and back pain is undeniable, and the impact goes beyond just the feet. Here’s what you need to know about your shoes, your back pain, and what to do about it.

Aug 31st, 2023

How Runners Can Avoid Shin Splints

Shin splints are a painful condition that can stop a runner in his tracks! Learn how to prevent shin splints and keep running pain-free with the proper shoe selection, warm-up and cool-down routines, and cross-training.

Aug 1st, 2023

5 Most Common Pediatric Foot Issues and How We Treat Them

From the moment they take their first steps, your child’s feet play a vital role in their development. But what happens when common pediatric foot issues arise? Discover the most common pediatric foot problems and how to treat them for a pain-free future.

Jul 12th, 2023

3 of the Most Common Risk Factors of Plantar Fasciitis

If you experience pain in your feet when getting out of bed in the morning or after sitting for a long period, you may have plantar fasciitis. Here are the most common causes of the painful condition and how to prevent it.

Jun 1st, 2023

How to Treat and Prevent Shin Splints

Shin splints can be extremely painful, and they can hobble many runners. Learn more about how to treat and prevent shin splints.

May 10th, 2023

How to Prevent Chronic Joint Instability After a Severe Ankle Sprain

An ankle sprain can leave you with chronic pain and joint instability, but with immediate and proper treatment, you can prevent it. Learn how.

Apr 1st, 2023

7 Key Benefits of Physical Therapy Following a Foot or Ankle Injury

Physical therapy can help you regain strength and function after a foot or ankle injury. Learn more about the benefits of physical therapy.

Mar 2nd, 2023

When Does a Bunion Require Surgery?

Sometimes, you can manage bunions on your own at home, but other times, you need surgery. Learn more about when your bunion might require surgery.

Feb 7th, 2023

5 Tips to Prevent Black Toenails from Running

Black toenails are an unfortunately common effect for many runners. Learn more about how to prevent them.

Jan 17th, 2023

Can I Treat Ankle Sprains at Home? 3 Signs You Need Professional Care

You can usually treat ankle sprains at home, but sometimes you need professional care. Here’s how to know when to seek help.

Dec 1st, 2022

2 Foot Problems That Can Cause Low Back Pain — And How to Treat Them

If you suffer from low back pain, the problem may actually be caused by too much stress on your feet. Learn why and how to treat it.

Nov 1st, 2022

Why Do I Keep Getting Athlete’s Foot? 4 Common Causes of This Infection

Athlete’s foot is a common foot infection — but it frequently recurs once you think you’ve gotten rid of it. Learn more about why this infection keeps recurring.

Oct 6th, 2022

5 Painful Foot & Ankle Injuries That Suggest You’re Overtraining

The signs of overtraining may be so subtle that you don’t notice them sneaking up on you. Learn more about five foot and ankle injuries that suggest overtraining.

Sep 1st, 2022

Why Does My Child Have Plantar Warts?

You may have questions about why your child has plantar warts. Learn more about why this condition is so common among children.

Aug 1st, 2022

4 Ways to Help Heal Your Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is an uncomfortable condition but you don’t need to live with it. Learn more about how to heal your plantar fasciitis.

Jul 1st, 2022

What Does it Take to Reposition My Bunions?

When you have bunions, you may be referred for surgery to reposition them. Learn more about how you can get your bunions repositioned.

Jun 1st, 2022

Improving Your Posture with Orthotics

Having poor posture isn’t just a matter of how it makes you appear; it can also affect your entire body. Learn more about how to improve your posture with orthotics.

May 1st, 2022

How Night Splints Can Heal Your Heel Spurs

Heel spurs are one of the most common foot problems and afflict many people. Learn about how wearing night splints can help heal your heel spurs.

Apr 4th, 2022

I’m Noticing the Development of Bunions: What Can I Do?

Bunions are a common foot problem, which usually starts out painless but can eventually cause pain. Learn more about what you can do about them.

Mar 6th, 2022

The Link Between Flat Feet and Rheumatoid Arthritis

People with rheumatoid arthritis often suffer from many problems with their feet. Learn more about the link between flat feet and rheumatoid arthritis.

Feb 1st, 2022

The Importance of Getting the Right Shoes for Your Child’s Feet

Children’s footwear is about more than just fashion. Learn more about why it’s important to get the right shoes for your child’s feet.

Jan 1st, 2022

What Happens If I Don’t Get Treatment for My Ingrown Toenail?

Ingrown toenails are extremely common but that doesn’t mean they’re harmless. Learn more about what happens if you don’t get your ingrown toenail treated.

Dec 1st, 2021

It Hurts to Put Pressure on My Feet in the Mornings: Do I Have Plantar Fasciitis?

Foot pain in the mornings is always unpleasant and it is a symptom of plantar fasciitis. However, other things can also cause it. Read on to learn more.

Nov 1st, 2021

How Orthotics Can Help Your Posture Problem

Custom orthotics help more than just your feet. They can help correct your posture, which can cure back problems as well.

Oct 1st, 2021

I’m Not an Athlete; Why Do I Have Athlete’s Foot?

Athletes aren’t the only ones who can get athlete’s foot. Learn more about what causes this form of foot fungus.

Sep 1st, 2021

Why Is Your Gait So Important?

Your gait — also known as the way you walk — has important effects on your muscle strength and even your risk of injuries. Learn more about why your gait is important.

Aug 2nd, 2021

Which Athletes Are More At Risk for Plantar Fasciitis?

Runners aren’t the only people at risk for developing plantar fasciitis. Athletes who play certain sports are at risk, too. Read on to learn more.

Jul 6th, 2021

5 Things to Consider When Buying Shoes for Your Kids

Choosing the right shoes for your kids is about more than how cool they look. Read on to learn how to select the right shoes.

Jun 10th, 2021

How to Protect Your Feet and Ankles While You Play

You may not think about your feet and ankles while playing sports, but these areas of your body are very susceptible to injury. Read on to learn how you can best protect your feet and ankles.

May 3rd, 2021

The Dangers of Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are a common problem that can be quite uncomfortable. Although you may be tempted to dismiss the problem as only a nuisance, it can actually present some serious risks if you leave it untreated. Read on to learn more.

Apr 1st, 2021

Does Plantar Fasciitis Require Surgery?

Plantar fasciitis is a condition that can cause pain to walk or even stand on your feet. There are many options for treating it, most of which do not require surgery. Read on to learn more about your treatment options.

Mar 1st, 2021

6 Causes of Heel Spurs

Heel spurs are a common cause of foot pain that can interfere with your ability to be active. Learn more about the most common causes of heel spurs.

Feb 1st, 2021

Signs and Symptoms of Bunions

Bunions are common but uncomfortable bony growths that most often occur on the big toe. Learn more about the signs and symptoms of bunions and how they can be treated.

Jan 1st, 2021

7 Ways to Stay Active Without Stressing Your Feet and Ankles

If you’ve been told that you need to avoid putting stress on your feet and ankles, this doesn’t mean you have to stop being physically active. Learn how you can stay active without stressing your feet and ankles.

Dec 1st, 2020

5 Most Common Running Injuries

Running is one of the most common ways Americans stay active. Unfortunately, running can increase your risk of developing certain injuries. Read on to learn more about the most common running injuries.

Nov 1st, 2020

Finding the Best Winter Running Shoes

Running is often more comfortable in the winter than in the summer, but it does require a change in what you wear. Learn more about the best types of running shoes to keep your feet healthy and dry all winter long.

Oct 4th, 2020

Tips for Avoiding Shin Splints

Shin splints affect many runners, especially those who are newer to the activity or have recently increased their distance. While the condition can be quite painful, it’s often preventable. Learn what causes shin splints and how to prevent them.

Sep 2nd, 2020

Signs You Have a Broken Toe

Broken toes are common injuries, but they can be extremely painful. In some cases, you might even need surgery. Read on to learn how to tell if you might have a broken toe and what you should do about it.

Aug 13th, 2020

Recognizing the Signs of an Overuse Injury in Your Ankle

Ankles absorb a lot of wear and tear. Read on to learn the most common signs of overuse injuries in your ankles and how you can prevent and treat these injuries.

Jul 14th, 2020

The Link Between Your Feet and Low Back Pain

Lower back pain is often linked with your feet and your spinal alignment. If you live with lower back pain, learn about some simple fixes that can have you moving comfortably again.

Jun 26th, 2020

Want to Try Barefoot Running? Here’s What You Need to Know

Barefoot running offers numerous benefits. Read on to find out what those benefits are and whether or not you should take up the sport.

May 13th, 2020

What Causes Heel Spurs?

Heel spurs are bony growths on your heels, which can be painful. Many runners experience chronic foot problems, such as heel spurs, but treatment can provide relief. Read on to learn what heel spurs are and how they can be treated.

Apr 1st, 2020

How to Prevent Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a common cause of foot pain. This condition can leave you unable to comfortably run and be active. Read on to learn more about hammertoe and how it can be treated.

Mar 1st, 2020

What Triggers Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that can make it painful to stand on your feet, let alone run. Certain factors are more likely to trigger plantar fasciitis. Learn more about what causes plantar fasciitis and how it’s treated.

Feb 1st, 2020

7 Exercise Tips for Arthritic Feet and Ankles

Is arthritis making your feet and ankles hurt? Chronic pain can make it hard to get around, but inactivity leads to even more stiffness. Find out what exercises you can do to relieve pain and increase mobility.

Jan 1st, 2020

Behind Your Heel Pain

Your heel bone sees a lot of action every day, so it’s no wonder that it hurts from time to time. And when something goes wrong, you know it. Find out what could be causing your heel pain, and learn what you can do about it.

Dec 1st, 2019

How Biomechanics Affect Your Mobility

Your mobility and movement rely on correct biomechanics, the science of human movement. It looks at how much force or rotation you apply when walking or running. Let’s discuss how your biomechanics can affect your movement.

Oct 31st, 2019

How to Keep a Sprained Ankle From Becoming a Chronic Instability

What you do after spraining your ankle can make a big difference in your recovery and in the long-term health of your ankle. Read on to learn what you should do to keep your ankle from becoming chronically unstable.

Sep 30th, 2019

What's Causing Your Arch Pain?

Whether it’s a dull ache after a long day on your feet or a sharp shooting pain after your run, arch pain is a common problem that can develop from many causes -- and it shouldn’t be ignored.

Aug 31st, 2019

How Your Weight Affects Your Feet

Obesity is actually the root of a host of foot problems, and the more pressure you put on your feet, the higher your risk will be of injuring them or initiating a chronic condition. But there are steps you can take to avoid these problems.

Aug 14th, 2019

Are Bunions Normal?

Bunions are a common problem that can be quite damaging to your feet if left untreated. Don’t ignore your bunion pain; find a solution today.

Jul 22nd, 2019

Summertime Tips for Healthy Feet

Summer is fast approaching, which means your feet might be more exposed during outdoor activities. No better time to introduce you to some tips for maintaining healthy feet during all of your exciting summer adventures!

Jun 20th, 2019

Everyday Activities That May Be Hurting Your Feet

Are you experiencing frequent discomfort and pain in your feet but unsure what’s causing it? There are many everyday activities you do without a second thought that could be hurting your feet. Read on to discover what they are.

May 21st, 2019

3 Helpful Tips for Maintaining Healthy Ankles and Avoiding Running Injuries

Ankle injuries are common among runners, especially when they don't take the proper precautions. Find out how to protect your ankles while you run.

Apr 23rd, 2019

How to Avoid Heel Pain With Custom Orthotics

Heel pain may be a relatively common complaint, but that doesn’t make it any less unpleasant. Custom orthotics relieve pressure points associated with most types of heel pain. Here’s how they can help you.

Mar 5th, 2019

Prevent Plantar Fasciitis from Returning

If you've been treated for plantar fasciitis, you know what a relief it is to finally get rid of the pain. Likely, you also know that the condition can recur. However, there are a number of steps you can take to prevent that from happening.

Feb 7th, 2019

3 Types of Bunion Surgery: Which Is Right for You?

Are you living with bunion pain? Have you tried orthotics, shoe changes, and NSAIDs to no avail? It’s time to get relief from bunion pain. Learn more about the 3 primary types of bunion surgeries that your doctor uses to help you meet your goals.

Jan 8th, 2019

Suffering From Foot, Knee, Hip, or Back Pain? Learn How Custom Orthotics May Help

Your feet play an important role in maintaining posture and helping you move with ease. If you have a problem with your feet, it can cause pain in your legs and back too. Here's how custom orthotics can help relieve your chronic pain.

Dec 19th, 2018

7 Signs You're Wearing the Wrong Running Shoes

Choosing the right running shoe is a lot like choosing a spouse. Once you find the right shoe that works for you, it's best to stick with it.

Nov 27th, 2018

What to Expect When Recovering From Achilles Tendon Surgery

If you have Achilles tendon surgery to repair a torn or degenerated tendon, you’ll need significant healing time. You may be eager to get back to full function as fast as possible, so here’s what to expect while you’re recovering.

Oct 29th, 2018