Proliance Surgeons Ankle & Foot of Edmonds offers state-of-the-art services, from excellent dedicated doctors, for all ankle and foot conditions and disorders. Our three board certified and licensed podiatrists provide personal, patient-centered care and take the time to further educate our patients about their foot and ankle health and treatment options. We treat patients of all ages, emphasizing preventative care, and specialize in foot and ankle reconstructive surgery.
Founded in 1991 by Senior Partner, Doctor DJ Wardle, with an aim to serve the Greater Seattle area in support of the area’s eclectic culture and active lifestyle. Our practice, located in Edmonds, Washington is home to three board-certified podiatrists and a friendly and knowledgeable staff. We are dedicated to our community and aim to provide superior foot and ankle care to you and your entire family.
Our providers provide state-of-the-art preventative, comprehensive, and surgical treatment for all foot and ankle conditions. Specializing in forefoot, rearfoot and ankle reconstructive and elective surgery; injury/strain; pathology; custom orthotics; and diabetic foot care. Below you will find a wide-ranging list of the services we provide.
Foot and ankle surgery is a subspecialty of orthopedic surgery that treats a variety of conditions, including injuries, deformities, and chronic diseases.
More...It’s usually only considered after other treatments have been tried without success. The goal of foot and ankle surgery is to regain function or stability, reduce pain, and prevent further disease or deformity.
There are a number of different foot and ankle conditions that may benefit from surgery as a treatment option. Bunions, hammertoe, metatarsal, ankle arthritis, Achilles tendon disorders, Morton’s neuroma, tibialis posterior disorder, and plantar fasciitis are all conditions that may require surgery as a treatment option, depending on their severity. Long-lasting pain relief is typically the biggest takeaway from having surgery performed to remedy your condition.
In order to best prepare for surgery, make sure you have a consultation with your podiatrist about your overall health, discuss any possible changes in medication, and ask any questions you may have about the procedure to go into the treatment with a clear head. In some cases, you may have to refrain from eating and drinking a few hours before the procedure, so make sure you understand what must be done on your end beforehand.
As for recovery, again, this will typically vary case by case and will be dependent on your condition and the type of surgery performed. Generally, it’s recommended that you get plenty of rest, ice the affected area, compress the wound to aid in further strain, and keep the area elevated to reduce any possible swelling. In some cases, your podiatrist may encourage you to use bandages, splints, surgical shoes, casts, crutches, orthotics, or a cane, depending on how much weight they believe your foot and ankle can bear.
If you’d like to determine whether surgery is the best option for you and your foot condition, consult with a podiatrist who will be able to give you a proper diagnosis and aid you with your decision.
When the foot or ankle experiences trauma, a fracture may occur. Causes of foot and ankle fractures can vary.
More...Causes of foot and ankle fractures can vary. In some cases, an obvious impact to the foot or a fall can be behind a fracture. Fractures can also occur because of increased stress on the bone over time. The location of the fracture can often give your podiatrist information on how the fracture occurred.
Pain, especially when bearing weight, is a telltale sign of a fracture. Limping due to this pain is a further sign of a foot or ankle fracture. Other symptoms include inflammation, bruising, deformity, and tenderness. A deformity may occur due to a shift in bone alignment or a joint dislocation near the fracture. While pain is a significant symptom of breakage, a patient who has nerve damage or who has diabetes may not feel this pain. In this instance, your podiatrist will look for additional signs to determine whether a fracture has occurred.
If you are experiencing severe pain, cannot walk without limping, have an open wound near the suspected break, or have numbness or tingling in the toes, you should see your podiatrist
The causes of foot pain vary greatly, including but not limited to diseases, deformities, improper footwear, and injuries pertaining to the foot region.
More...The feet serve as the foundation of the body. When pain is experienced, it’s therefore extremely important to identify early on what and where the issue is
Those who experience foot pain may also notice redness, swelling, soreness, bruising, or numbness present at the injured area. When these symptoms occur, it’s important to also identify where the pain experienced is located, as there are a number of foot complications that could be at the root of the problem. For example, different foot conditions can affect different areas such as the heel, ball of the foot, foot arch, the toes, or ankles, to name a few.
Common heel pain conditions include heel spurs and heel fractures. Morton’s neuroma is a condition that often comes with pain experienced at the ball of the foot, as well as sesamoiditis. Those suffering from discomfort in their arches may have flat feet or plantar fasciitis. Common issues that affect the toes include gout, bunions, blisters, corns and calluses, as well as hammertoe and ingrown toenail. An ankle sprains is also a common ailment that can lead to foot pain.
Treatment for foot pain varies for each case, depending on both the cause of pain and the location of the affected area. The most common recommendations for easing the discomfort of foot pain include the following: getting plenty of rest, icing and heating the area in which pain is felt, pain relievers, and keeping the foot elevated to avoid swelling.
Heel pain, while common, can be extremely uncomfortable if not met with proper care or treatment.
More...Heel pain may occur if you injure or overuse the heel. If left uncared for, the affected area may worsen, limiting your mobility and making it difficult to perform everyday activities, such as walking.
There are many different causes of heel pain, including strains or sprains, tarsal tunnel syndrome, stress fractures, Achilles tendonitis, and heel bursitis. One of the most common causes of heel pain for children and teenagers specifically is Sever’s disease. Sever’s disease can develop due to overuse or repetitive microtrauma of the heel bone’s growth plates. This condition is often seen among those who are active in sporting activities.
Other causes of heel pain may include issues with poor circulation, poor posture when walking or running, a soft tissue mass, and a rupture of the Achilles tendon. To help ease the discomfort of heel pain, it’s advised that you get plenty of rest, apply ice to the affected area, and wear shoes that fit properly. In some more serious cases, a podiatrist might recommend the use of custom orthotics or shoe inserts for extra support.
Ankle pain, while initially thought of as an issue for athletes, can affect anyone at anytime.
More...Simple, everyday activities, such as walking or running on an uneven surface, have the possibility of causing serious harm to one’s ankle. That is, however, not to discount athletic injuries; in fact, half of all ankle sprains are inflicted during an athletic activity. The most common causes of ankle injuries include tripping or falling, landing awkwardly after jumping, a sudden impact such as a car crash, or twisting, rolling, and rotating of the ankle.
Some signs that point to the potential of an ankle injury include pain towards the affected area, swelling, bruising, or an inability to walk or bear weight on the affected area. You may also notice an increase in the height of the arch of the inflicted foot. In order to understand why the injury occurred, a podiatrist will often question the patient about the events leading up to their ankle discomfort. An x-ray of the leg or foot may also be performed to discover what’s harming the ankle.
There are many different types of ankle injuries, such as ankle sprains, fractures, strains, and tendonitis. To relieve discomfort caused by these conditions, it’s recommended to get plenty of rest, use ice to reduce swelling and ease pain, compress the injured ankle by wrapping it for support, and elevate the ankle to reduce swelling.
Injuries of the foot and ankle are common among those who actively participate in sports.
More...As with any sporting activity, it’s very important to be aware of the safety precautions needed to help avoid injury and reduce risk.
Some sports may be considered more dangerous in terms of foot and ankle injuries compared to others. These sports may include basketball, running, football, soccer, and dancing. Sports that require tightly worn shoes as well as have a particular focus on jumping typically run a higher risk of injury. Because the feet are considered the foundation of the body, help us stay balanced, and enable us to perform our everyday activities, professional help should be sought at the first instinct of something gone wrong.
Some common contributors that lead to foot and ankle injuries in the realm of sports include not stretching properly or failing to warm up, wearing the incorrect footwear needed for your particular sport, as well as not taping or providing your feet and ankle with the needed support. There are a number of foot conditions that can develop if certain safety measures are ignored. Some of the most common conditions related to sports injuries include Achilles tendinitis, plantar fasciitis, and stress fractures, to name a few.
Achilles tendinitis affects the largest tendon in the body, the Achilles tendon. This type of injury typically occurs because of overuse. The main function of the Achilles tendon is to transmit power from the calf muscles to the heel and the foot. When this tendon is harmed, it can be extremely painful and may lead to further complications including tears, ruptures, tendinitis, peritendinitis, tendinosis, tendinopathy, and bursitis.
Plantar fasciitis may occur when the band of tissues that support the arch of your foot experience too much stress. These tissues can become strained from frequently performing sporting activities, thus causing inflammation and pain at the bottom of the heel.
Stress fractures can arise due to a lack of conditioning, use of improper equipment or technique, and repetitive stress placed on the foot and ankle. A stress fracture is a small crack in the bone that can be very painful and cause a great deal of discomfort.
Conditions affecting the feet due to complications with arthritis can take many forms, including osteoarthritis, gout, and ankylosing spondylitis.
More...Conditions affecting the feet due to complications with arthritis can take many forms, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis.
Osteoarthritis typically affects the joint connecting your big toe to your foot, though it can also be found in the midfoot or ankle region. Unlike osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis typically affects both feet and deals with the same joints on each foot. Gout, which normally affects the big toe, is comprised of needle-like crystals that trigger inflammation in the joints. Psoriatic arthritis causes sausage-like swelling in the toes. Lastly, ankylosing spondylitis can lead to plantar fasciitis and pain at the Achilles tendon.
Many factors play a role in the cause for arthritic feet, including obesity, the aging process, as well as family history or genetic connections to arthritis.To help prevent issues with your feet, examine your feet daily, keep your feet clean, routinely moisturize your feet, keep your toenails trimmed, inspect your shoes for anything that may cause discomfort, and wear socks on a daily basis.
If you’re experiencing any discomfort or pain due to one of the above forms of arthritis, consider over-the-counter pain medication and investing in comfortable footwear. Pain medication coupled with top of the line comfort footwear is a great way to ease the pain that often comes with arthritis. If you’re overweight, it’s also recommended to think about setting a weight loss goal to ease some of the pressure on your feet, as well stay as active as possible. Applying ice or heat to the affected area is another way to calm the discomfort you may experience. It’s important to do research and see whether inserts may be beneficial for you. General foot care, like pampering your feet and keeping them well maintained, is also recommended. Lastly, you should seek professional advice and learn about potential surgery options, if necessary.
Unfortunately, foot problems are often a common result of having diabetes. As time goes by, diabetes can cause nerve damage.
More...As time goes by, it’s likely that diabetes can cause nerve damage, also known as diabetic neuropathy. This can lead to tingling or a painful sensation, and it may also cause you to lose feeling in your feet. The loss of feeling in your feet can become incredibly dangerous, especially if you can longer sense a blister or cut on your foot; this can lead to sores or infections.
There are many ways to maintain healthy foot care when dealing with diabetes. Most importantly, you want to ensure that you’re managing your blood glucose levels, otherwise known as your blood sugar. You also want to ensure that you’re checking your feet daily. As mentioned before, it’s important to recognize if your feet have cuts, sores, blisters, plantar warts, ingrown toenails, or other troubling foot conditions to stay ahead of the issue and prevent yourself from further harm.
Along with foot checks, you should also wash and dry your feet daily using lukewarm water. It may also be useful in certain cases to moisturize your feet a few times a week, especially if you’re prone to dryness. Please be advised, however, to avoid moisturizing between the toes as they will not dry properly. Another rule you may want to follow is to ensure you’re cutting your toenails straight across.
You should also refrain from digging into the sides of the toes; this will help prevent the development of an ingrown toenail. If you do happen to develop a corn or callus, never treat them yourself; seek the help of a professional. It may also be beneficial to look into socks made specifically for those with diabetes to help provide yourself with extra cushion. You may also want to refrain from walking barefoot, as well as avoid smoking, as it restricts the blood flow to your feet.
In certain serious cases, you may notice a cut, blister, or bruise is not healing after a few days. If this occurs, it’s important to seek the help of a professional. Other warning signs include redness, swelling, a callus with dried blood inside of it, or an infection that causes discoloration of the foot and an odor.
As you age, it’s important to pay good attention to your overall health; this includes the well being of your feet.
More...The feet are considered the foundation of the body; if their hygiene becomes at risk, it’s possible you can find yourself immobile and in pain. To avoid this, it’s recommended that senior citizens, in particular, take early action in maintaining the health of their feet.
Some of the most common foot conditions found among geriatric patients include heel pain, ingrown toenails, corns, calluses, bunions, dry skin, brittle nails, complications due to arthritis and diabetes, and fungal infections. In order to avoid these issues from arising, it’s recommended that you use a foot stool when seated to keep the feet elevated, dry your feet completely after washing, ensure your shoes and socks fit well and leave room for your toes, trim your toenails straight across on a regular basis, and that you keep your feet moisturized to avoid cracking of the skin.
It may also be helpful to look into footwear that provides your feet with extra support to avoid fallen arches and ingrown toenails, as well as to help you keep your balance while going about your daily activities. In more severe cases, depending on the foot condition you’re experiencing, some podiatrists may suggest custom orthotics or shoe inserts to help correct the alignment of your feet
A bunion is a bony, painful swelling that is often formed on the first joint of the big toe.
More...Bunions can be extremely painful due to the weight of all your body resting on it each time you take a step. Everyday activities, such as walking and wearing shoes, can cause you extreme discomfort if you have a bunion.
Reasons that a person may develop a bunion can vary. Some patients may form bunions due to genetic factors, complications with arthritis, or a weak foot structure. General aging can also play a role in the formation of a bunion.
If you have a bunion, you may notice a bony bump on your big toe, experience swelling and redness, and the area may feel tender to the touch. To help alleviate the pain that often comes with having a bunion, it’s suggested to maintain a healthy weight to help lessen the pressure on your toe, practice both heating and icing the affected area, wear wide-fitting shoes wear to leave plenty of space for your toes and to minimize rubbing, and look into shoe inserts that can help position your foot correctly.
Because bunions can result in other painful foot problems, such as hammertoes and bursitis, we recommend that you meet with a podiatrist for a professional diagnosis and for information regarding all your treatment options.
Corns are thickened areas on the skin’s surface, and they can be irritating and painful.
More...Corns are commonly found on the feet, and they are typically circular or cone-shaped. They develop where there are areas of pressure or friction, such as on the little toe when it rubs up against shoes, or on the ball of your foot.
While corns are often confused with calluses, there is a difference between them. Corns are raised bumps that consist of rough, thickened areas of skin that may be dry or waxy. They also tend to be surrounded by skin that is inflamed and are usually much smaller than calluses.
The best treatment for a corn varies from person to person and is best determined by a podiatrist. Certain topical over-the-counter products may be suggested, or a more serious treatment may be prescribed. Diabetics should consult with a podiatrist immediately if they have developed a corn, as small wounds such as corns can potentially develop into more serious conditions.
Orthotic inserts, which are fitted by a podiatrist, may also help with treating corns. Inserts fit right into the shoes and adjust the way the feet fit into the shoes, thus fixing the way one walks. Proper-fitting orthotics can help reduce friction, which can in turn help reduce corn formation and exacerbation.
Surgery is rarely used to treat corns, but does occur on occasion. Corn surgery deals with the underlying issue that causes corns to develop. During surgery, the bone is shaved and any abnormalities are corrected, thus reducing the amount of friction that occurs during walking.
Orthotics, unlike typical shoe inserts, are prescribed by a podiatrist to provide cushion and support.
More...Orthotics can also aid in correcting a specific foot condition that you may be dealing with. Conditions such as diabetes, plantar fasciitis, bursitis, arthritis, and flat feet can highly benefit from the use of orthotics, and orthotics may assist you in alleviating pain that often comes with those ailments.
Orthotics can come in many different shapes and sizes and can be made from different types of materials. The purpose of a custom orthotic is for it to match your specific needs. Some orthotics may be rigid or functional, while others are soft and accommodative. Rigid orthotics are made to help ease foot aches and strains, and they’re made from harder materials like plastic or carbon fiber. Soft orthotics serve to take the pressure off of uncomfortable areas of the feet, such as sores or foot ulcers. This type of orthotic is typically made from soft, compression materials.
Custom orthotics are made to mold to your feet and should fit your shoes perfectly. If you feel like the orthotic isn’t fitted properly, it’s extremely important you let your podiatrist know right away so they can assist in getting you as comfortable as possible.
In order to ensure your orthotic is doing its job, it’s recommended that you keep a healthy line of communication with your podiatrist and visit at their requested schedule. Doing this will keep track of gradual improvement and will allow you to discuss any possible adjustments needed. If you feel orthotics are a treatment option for you, we recommend you meet with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and to discuss how to improve your foot health.
Flat feet is a condition that affects those who have little to no arch in their feet.
More...When you stand, a person who doesn’t have flat feet will have a gap from the inner part of their feet to the floor, due to the normal arch that slightly rises off the ground. Those with flat feet will experience no such gap. While there are some people who experience no issues with their flat feet, it’s not uncommon for those with this condition to experience discomfort or pain.
Flat feet may cause a certain level of pain due to strained muscles and connecting ligaments. Those not afflicted by flat feet are able to get support while walking by the spring that the arch provides, which in turn, helps to distribute your body weight while taking steps. When the arch is no longer present, there is a larger amount of pressure on your muscles and ligaments in the feet, which is why they become strained and may cause you to feel pain.
There are many reasons that play a role in why a person may develop flat feet. For instance, certain genetic factors passed down from parents can lead to flat feet. Children may appear to have flat feet; however, their arches should develop over time. Having overall weak arches, a foot or ankle injury, arthritis, or a muscle or nervous system disease may all increase your likelihood of having flat feet. Tarsal coalition, a foot condition causing the fusion of bones in the feet, may also play a part in developing flat feet. Other common factors that are linked to flat feet include diabetes and obesity.
To manage the discomfort that may come with flat feet, we recommend that your practice exercises to help ease your pain. Heel cord stretches are a great way to stretch your Achilles tendon and help loosen up calf muscles that are often strained due to flat feet. Placing a golf ball under your foot and rolling it back and forth while seated is another great stretch, especially for your plantar fascia ligament.
When it comes to treating flat feet or fallen arches, it’s suggested you get plenty of rest. Frequently ice the affected area to help reduce swelling. Performing daily stretches are a great way to loosen up your muscles and relieve strain. It may also be beneficial to look into orthotics or shoe inserts to help relieve the pain.
Plantar warts are growths that may appear on the heels or other weight-bearing areas of the feet.
More...Plantar warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). The virus enters the body through breaks in the skin, such as cuts, that are on the bottom of the feet. Plantar warts are more likely to affect children and teenagers, people with weakened immune systems, people who have a history with plantar warts, and people who walk barefoot in environments exposed to a wart-causing virus.
If you suspect you have plantar warts, you may have the following symptoms: pain or tenderness while walking, a lesion that interrupts the ridges in the skin of your foot, small fleshy lesions on the bottom of the foot, or a callus where a wart has grown inward over a well-defined spot on the skin.
HPV causes plantar warts to form and is very common. There are more than 100 kinds of the virus in existence. However, only a few of them cause warts on the feet. The other types of HPV are likely to cause warts on other parts of the body.
If you have plantar warts, your podiatrist may try different treatment methods depending on your specific case. Some treatments for plantar warts are peeling medicines (salicylic acid), freezing medicines (cryotherapy), or surgical procedures. Laser treatments and vaccines are also used to treat plantar warts.
The Achilles tendon is not only the strongest, but also the largest tendon in the human body.
More...The main function of the Achilles tendon is to transmit power from the calf muscles to the heel and the foot. It’s because of the Achilles tendon that we are able to stand on our toes when walking, running, or jumping. Even with all of its strength, the Achilles tendon can be exposed to injury. Due to its limited blood supply and the high tensions placed on it, the Achilles heel can be left vulnerable if harmed.
Possible conditions that may arise due to injury of the Achilles tendon include tears, ruptures, tendinitis, peritendinitis, tendinosis, tendinopathy, and bursitis. When trying to diagnose if one has issues with their Achilles tendon, a podiatrist will commonly check for any pain, swelling, or discoloration around the heel or lower leg area. Different treatments for issues concerning the Achilles tendon vary, but may include over-the-counter or prescribed pain relievers for intense discomfort, alternating ice and heat therapy, custom-made orthotics, physical therapy, and in severe cases, surgery. To help prevent injury to the Achilles tendon, it’s recommended to regularly perform stretches involving the muscles of the lower leg.
This abnormal bending can lead to added pressure on the toe when wearing shoes. It can also cause pain or discomfort when walking or running. Because hammertoes typically worsen overtime and become increasingly more rigid, it’s recommended that you seek the help of a podiatrist for treatment options if you believe you’re experiencing the symptoms of this deformity.
Those experiencing hammertoe may also find other foot related issues that come with this condition, such as corns or calluses. Some factors that may influence your likelihood of getting hammertoe include old age, toe length, improper footwear, and genetics. Those who have diabetes or arthritis are also more likely to have foot related complications, including hammertoe.
To help better prevent yourself from getting hammertoe, it’s recommended that you avoid wearing shoes that limit the room for your toes. Footwear with low heels, as well as adjustable straps or laces, can be useful when it comes to providing your feet with ample room to move. Buying shoes that fit are also important, which is why we recommend shopping at the end of the day when your feet are at their largest. This helps you avoid choosing a shoe too small for your feet.
Orthotics, as well as medical pads for corns and calluses that may develop due to your hammertoe, are recommended to help relieve discomfort. Light toe exercises may also be helpful for strengthening the muscles and mobility of your toes.
Morton’s neuroma may develop when the tissue around one of the nerves leading to your foot thickens.
More...When this occurs, you may experience some discomfort as if you were standing on a pebble stuck in your shoe. Most symptoms will not appear outwardly and will be experienced in the form of a sharp, burning pain in the ball of the foot, as well as a stinging or burning feeling in the toes that may sometimes lead to numbness.
Some factors that contribute to the formation of Morton’s neuroma include wearing high heels or ill-fitting shoes that put extra pressure on your toes or the balls of your feet. There has also been a tie to the development of Morton’s neuroma and certain high-impact sporting activities. Activities you may want to avoid from participating in too frequently include both jogging and running. Too much repetitive trauma can cause a strain on the feet and increase the chances of developing a foot complication.
Other sports that require the use of tightly worn shoes, such as skiing or rock climbing, may also increase your chances of getting Morton’s neuroma. Certain foot deformities can also lead to the development of Morton’s neuroma. Some of these deformities that increase the likelihood of getting this condition include bunions, hammertoes, and flat feet.
Treatment for Morton’s Neuroma will often vary, depending on the severity of a patient’s condition. In some cases, injections may be helpful for alleviating pain. Another form of treatment is decompression surgery, in which a podiatrist will work to alleviate the pressure on the nerve. In more severe cases, full removal of the nerve would be required.
Sprained ankles may occur when a person accidentally rolls, twists, or turns their ankle in an awkward way.
More...Sprained ankles may occur when a person accidentally rolls, twists, or turns their ankle in an awkward way. When this occurs, ligaments in the ankle are being forced beyond their range of motion, thus causing an injury. Some symptoms that point to having a sprained ankle may include swelling, bruising, tenderness, and pain inflicted on the affected area. Some may also experience restricted range of motion or feel instability in the ankle.
There are many factors that play into the cause of ankle sprains. Simple, everyday activities like walking can lead to an ankle sprain if the activity is being done on an uneven surface. The same goes for running or exercising. Those who partake in sports may be more susceptible to obtaining a sprained ankle because they’re more likely to fall or land uncomfortably after a jump, which can lead to an injury.
It’s important to note that some of the main risk factors that can lead to sprained ankles are improper footwear, a prior ankle complication, weakness or lack of flexibility in the ankle region, and as mentioned above, uneven surfaces and involvement in sporting activities.
To better prevent an ankle sprain, it’s recommended to warm up before partaking in intense physical activities, use caution when walking or running on rough surfaces, consider using tape or wearing a brace on a previously injured ankle, and avoid frequently wearing footwear that puts tension on your ankles, like high heels.
Ingrown toenails can form when the side of a toenail begins to grow into the flesh surrounding the nail.
More...Ingrown toenails can form when the side of a toenail begins to grow into the flesh surrounding the nail. As a result, the affected toe—most commonly the big toe—may become red, swollen, painful, and—in severe cases—infected.
There are many reasons why an ingrown toenail may develop. Improperly cutting your toenails is a major cause of ingrown toenails. If toenails aren’t cut straight across or are cut too short, the likelihood of getting an ingrown toenail may increase. Other causes include having unusually curved toenails, wearing shoes that don’t give your toes an ample amount of space, and hereditary factors. Injuring the toe by stubbing it or having an object fall on it may also lead to ingrown toenails. If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to further complications with the foot.
If you are someone who has diabetes, it’s extremely important to remain mindful of ingrown toenail prevention, as minor cuts or simple scrapes can lead to serious complications. You can prevent ingrown toenails by ensuring toenails are straight across and at a moderate length, wearing shoes that fit properly, and checking feet daily for signs of foot issues.
Treatment for an ingrown toenail will vary on a case by case basis. One form of treatment requires lifting the ingrown nail and placing a splint or piece of cotton underneath. Another method for a more severe case would involve partially removing the nail. For cases that need extreme care, the nail itself and tissue would have to be removed.
Plantar fasciitis affects the plantar regions of the foot, namely the heel, arch, and midfoot.
More...When too much stress is put on the plantar fascia, or the connective tissue that stretches from the heel to the ball of your foot, inflammation, overtightening, and tearing may arise. This can cause foot pain. Because of plantar fasciitis, you may experience tearing with the first steps you take in the morning each day.
A certain trigger that may cause stress to the plantar fascia includes poor arch support, which is brought upon by frequently walking barefoot or wearing shoes with improper arch support. Other causes include obesity or a sudden increase in weight, increased physical activity, weak foot and ankle muscles, tight calf muscles, and arthritis.
If you’re feeling pain after sitting, walking, or standing for a long period of time, as well as when you first step out of bed or climb stairs, you may be showing signs of plantar fasciitis. To know for sure what’s causing you pain, it’s best that you get an x-ray taken of your foot.
Heel spurs are the result of a calcium deposit that causes a bony bump on the underside of the heel bone.
More...Heel spurs normally forms over time and can best be diagnosed through an x-ray examination. Heel spurs are commonly linked with plantar fasciitis, an inflammation that runs along the bottom of the foot. Common symptoms of heel spurs include pain towards the affected area, inflammation, and swelling at the front of the heel.
There are different causes that may lead to a heel spur including poorly fitted shoes, excess weight or obesity, repetitive stress from running or jogging on hard surfaces, and arthritis. Treating a heel spur often requires a lifestyle change as well as getting plenty of rest. Using cold compresses is another method to help alleviate the discomfort of a heel spur. To prevent further damage, it may be useful to look into wearing shoe inserts or custom orthotics.
Practicing different exercises can help reduce the pain of heel spurs as well decrease inflammation you may be experiencing. Some of these helpful exercises include calf stretches performed either against a wall or on steps, foot rolls with a golf or tennis ball, seated foot flexes, and towel grabs with your toes. Heel spur prevention can start by understanding the everyday stresses put on your feet and knowing when to let your feet rest. It’s also important to not let heel pain go uncared for. Once you notice something is off, take action instead of waiting to see if it goes away.
Our physicians at Ankle & Foot of Edmonds are all board certified with the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery and have completed surgical residency training at one of the most elite, rigorous, and comprehensive foot and ankle surgery programs in the United States. Each physician brings a unique skill set of experience and expertise to the practice, encompassing all aspects of foot and ankle medical and surgical treatment. Our providers are dedicated to, and value, the advancement of education for themselves, their patients, and our community. Each physician is actively involved in one or more of the Puget Northwest’s Podiatric Residency Training programs, serving as a mentor and educator to medical students.
7320 216th Street SW Suite 320B, Edmonds, WA 98026
7320 216th Street SW Suite 140, Edmonds, WA 98026-8006
Orthotics are custom molded inserts intended to correct an abnormal or irregular walking pattern. Orthotics are not truly or solely “arch supports”. They perform functions that make standing, walking, and running more comfortable and efficient by altering slightly the angles at which the foot strikes a walking or running surface. Once your doctor has recommended orthotics for you, we recommend that you call your insurance company to verify your orthotic benefits. Insurance coverage varies from insurance to insurance and plan to plan. Please provide your insurance company with the orthotic billing code “L3000”. As a courtesy to you we will bill your insurance company for the orthotics.
You need to understand that all fees are your responsibility. Any amount that is not covered by your insurance company will be considered your responsibility. Some insurance companies do not offer orthotic coverage. For patients with no orthotic coverage, a payment plan is available. For information about payment plans, please talk to one of our front office staff.
FOR MEDICARE PATIENTS: Medicare does not cover orthotics; therefore, we do not bill them. Medicare patients need to pay for their orthotics in full at time of pick up; unless other payment arrangements have been made. If for some reason your doctor authorizes a return, a refund will be given. The amount refunded will be the total amount that the patient paid for the orthotic appliance minus the lab-processing fee. The financial coordinator will verify the amount paid.
We thank you for letting us be of service to you.
News
Three Proliance Surgeons Ambulatory Surgery Centers have been honored as U.S. News 2025 Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers (ASCs).
See MoreNews
Proliance Surgeons is proud to see four of its Ambulatory Surgery Centers recognized on Newsweek's 2025 list of America's Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers.
See MoreNews
We are excited and honored to be sponsoring the American Cancer Society's Making Strides 5K walk. We invite our community to walk with us in the battle against breast cancer.
See More© 2021 Proliance Surgeons
805 Madison St. Suite 901 | Seattle, WA 98104 | 206-264-8100