May 2025

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes and supports the arch of the foot. This condition is a common source of heel pain, especially during the first steps in the morning or after long periods of rest. Symptoms may include sharp or aching pain in the heel or arch of the foot, often worsening with activity. Risk factors for developing plantar fasciitis include prolonged standing, high-impact activities, obesity, and wearing unsupportive footwear. Individuals with flat feet or high arches may also be more prone to this condition. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist sooner rather than later who can accurately diagnose and treat plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Eugenio Rivera from Calo Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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

Ankle taping is a common practice among gymnasts, serving multiple important purposes during training and competition. One of the main reasons for ankle taping is injury prevention, as the ankles are under constant stress from repetitive impact and dynamic movements. Ankle sprains are common among gymnasts, often taking weeks to recover. Taping helps reduce the risk of sprains and strains by limiting excessive motion. It also enhances joint awareness, allowing athletes to better sense their body position and make quicker adjustments. During powerful landings, taping provides added stability to support the ankle joint and absorb shock more effectively. This type of protection makes taping a valuable tool in the sport. However, injuries still happen, and if  you have endured an ankle or foot injury while performing gymnastics, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide effective treatment.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Dr. Eugenio Rivera of Calo Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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

Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, are a common foot condition where the skin surrounding the heel becomes dry, thick, and begins to split. This often occurs when the skin loses moisture and elasticity, leading to roughness and the development of painful cracks. One major cause is having naturally dry feet, which can worsen without proper moisturizing. Standing for long periods of time, especially on hard surfaces, puts constant pressure on the heels and can lead to skin breakdown. Dehydration reduces the skin’s ability to stay soft and flexible, increasing the risk of cracks. Additionally, being overweight can also add extra stress to the heel area, causing the skin to expand and split. Cracked heels may become painful, causing difficulty in completing daily tasks. If you have developed this condition, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Eugenio Rivera from Calo Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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

Ankle pain can result from a sudden injury, overuse, or an underlying condition like arthritis or tendonitis. Resting the ankle and avoiding activities that cause strain are important first steps. Elevating the foot can help reduce swelling and ease discomfort. Gentle movement and stretching, once the pain begins to subside, may support recovery, but pushing through pain can worsen the injury. Wearing stable, supportive shoes instead of sandals or heels can also help protect the joint. Avoid wrapping the ankle too tightly, which can cut off circulation. If the pain is sharp, persistent, or accompanied by swelling, bruising, or instability, it may indicate a fracture or torn ligament. Early evaluation can prevent long-term complications and improper healing. If your ankle pain does not improve or interferes with walking, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. Eugenio Rivera from Calo Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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