Dr. Joe Campbell and Dr. Brad Habuda are podiatric surgeons, a branch of medicine specializing in treating a variety of conditions of the foot and ankle, including bunions, hammertoes, corns and calluses, ingrown nails, warts, sprains, fractures and heel pain caused by spurs or plantar fasciitis. They are highly trained physicians holding four-year bachelor’s degrees as well as four-year degrees in podiatric medicine, and between them, four years of surgical residency training.  Dr. Campbell has been practicing in the Fort Myers area for over twenty-five years, and Dr. Habuda for five years.  They continue their education by attending seminars every year.  They work closely with other healthcare professionals to give appropriate and comprehensive care.

Problem of the month:  Plantar Fasciitis

The plantar fascia is a ligament-like band running from the heel to the ball of the foot.  This band pulls on the heel bone, raising the arch of the foot as it pushes off the ground.  If your foot moves incorrectly, the plantar fascia may become strained.  The fascia may swell and its tiny fibers may begin to fray, causing plantar fasciitis.  Plantar fasciitis is often caused by poor foot mechanics.  If your foot flattens too much, the fascia may overstretch and swell.  If your foot flattens too little, the fascia may ache from being pulled too tight.  A heel spur may form in response to the plantar fascia’s tug on the heel bone.  Bursitis may develop if a swollen plantar fascia presses against a plantar bursa.  Bursitis is the swelling of a bursa, a fluid-filled sac that reduces friction between a ligament and a bone.

Common symptoms include the bottom of the foot may hurt when you stand, especially first thing in the morning, or after periods of rest.  Pain usually occurs on the inside of the foot, near the spot where your heel and arch meet.  Pain may lessen after a few steps, but it comes back after rest or with prolonged movement.

There are several treatment modalities for plantar fasciitis.  X-rays may be taken or fluoroscope used to confirm or rule out a suspected heel spur or stress fracture of the heel bone.  If there is severe pain and swelling, injections may be utilized, prescription anti-inflammatories, or both.  Stretching exercises and physical therapy, such as ultrasound, may also be recommended.   To reduce symptoms caused by poor foot mechanics, your foot may be taped.  This supports the arch and temporarily controls movement.  Night splints may also help by stretching the fascia.

If taping helps, orthotics may be prescribed.  These inserts control the way your foot moves.  As a result, the symptoms should go away.

Surgery may be needed if other types of treatment don’t control the pain. Drs. Campbell and Habuda are the only podiatrists in the area that perform “no stitch” surgery in the office. A small incision is made, the plantar fascia is partially cut to release tension and a small bandage applied.  The success rate is over 85%. 

Please call 656-6565 today for an appointment!