Plantar Fasciitis and Family History: Is There a Genetic Connection?

Plantar fasciitis is not considered a genetic condition. However, genetic influence on plantar fascia plays a role in increasing susceptibility to developing plantar fasciitis. Factors related to foot structure and foot bio mechanics run in families and increase the risk of developing plantar fasciitis. A family with foot characteristics, such as high arches or flat feet, has a challenge with weight distribution across the foot. These biomechanical factors contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis due to added strain on the plantar fascia.

Inherited foot conditions are just a piece of the puzzle when it comes to plantar fasciitis. Lifestyle factors, such as activity level, footwear choices, and overall foot health practices, also play a significant role in the development of the condition.For example, a family history of foot musculoskeletal issues has a likelihood of developing plantar fasciitis, but this does not mean that the condition is determined by genetics.

The exact causes of plantar fasciitis are not fully known but it is a combination of factors, including biomechanical issues (such as foot structure and gait abnormalities), lifestyle factors (such as physical activity level and footwear choices), and repetitive strain on the plantar fascia (the tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes).

If you are concerned about the risk of developing plantar fasciitis due to a family history of foot problems, focus on maintaining good foot health through proper footwear, maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, and seeking medical attention if you start to experience symptoms of plantar fasciitis.Do not suffer in silence: Request a consultation with our Houston podiatrists at DeNiel Foot & Ankle Center and start feeling better today!

Plantar fasciitis results from inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bone to the toes.

Factors that contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis:

• Biomechanical Factors:Foot mechanics, such as high arches or flat feet, place extra stress on the plantar fascia, leading to inflammation and pain. Abnormal gait patterns or poor alignment of the feet while walking or running also contribute.
• Overuse or Repetitive Strain: Engaging in activities that involve repetitive impact on the feet, such as running, jumping, or standing for long periods, can lead to microtears in the plantar fascia causing inflammation and pain.
• Improper Footwear: Wearing shoes that lack proper arch support, or cushioning, or do not fit well increases the risk of plantar fasciitis. Shoes with inadequate support strain the plantar fascia and exacerbate the condition.
• Sudden Increase in Physical Activity: Rapidly increasing the intensity, duration, or frequency of physical activities, particularly those that put stress on the feet, can overwhelm the plantar fascia and lead to inflammation.
• Age:It is common in individuals between the ages of 40 and 60. As people age, the plantar fascia tends to lose some of its elasticity and becomes prone to injury.
• Obesity: Excess body weight places additional stress on the feet and the plantar fascia, increasing the risk of inflammation and pain.

Say Goodbye to Bunions with Expert Bunion Removal Surgery

A bunion, also known as hallux valgus, is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, at the joint to the foot. Bunions cause the big toe to point toward the other toes instead of straight ahead. The misalignment results in the joint at the base of the big toe protruding outward and the other toes to crowd. Bunions develop due to a combination of genetic, anatomical, and lifestyle factors however the exact cause varies from person to person. While these factors increase the risk of bunions, not everyone with these risk factors will develop them. Additionally, bunions can be influenced by a combination of factors, and their formation is not solely due to one specific cause.

Bunion removal surgery, also known as bunionectomy, is a medical procedure performed to correct a bunion. The decision to undergo Houston bunion surgery should be in consultation with a qualified podiatrist after evaluation of your condition. Have a detailed discussion with your bunion doctor Houston about the benefits, risks, and expected outcomes of bunion surgery. Get personalized guidance based on your situation and make an informed decision about the treatment approach for your bunion. Before attempting any treatment, see a podiatrist. They can evaluate the severity of the bunion and recommend appropriate treatment.In less severe cases, your foot doctor will recommend non-surgical treatments to relieve pain and slow the progression of the bunion. They include:

• Wear comfortable, fitting shoes with a wide-toe box.
• Use orthotic inserts or pads to cushion the bunion and improve alignment.
• Apply ice to reduce inflammation.
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers.

Points to consider about bunion surgery

There are several surgical techniques used to address bunions. The choice of the procedure will depend on the severity of the bunion and your needs. Types of bunion surgery include:

1. Osteotomy: It involves cutting and realigning the bones of the foot to correct the misalignment of the big toe joint.
2. Exostectomy: It involves removing the bony bump itself without major realignment of the bones.
3. Arthrodesis:It is fusing the joint at the base of the big toe, which can be used for severe bunions or cases where other methods are not suitable.
4. Resection Arthroplasty: In this procedure, damaged joint surfaces are removed and reshaped to alleviate pain and improve joint function.

Preparation

Before the surgery, your podiatrist will perform a thorough examination of your foot and order any necessary tests, such as X-rays. They will discuss the surgical technique most appropriate for your condition, expected outcomes, and the recovery process.

Aftercare

Follow post-operative instructions carefully. It includes keeping the surgical area clean, elevating your foot, and avoiding putting weight on it for a certain period. Attend follow-up appointments as scheduled to monitor the healing progress.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with bunion surgery. Some of the complications include infection, nerve damage, poor wound healing, recurrence of the bunion, and dissatisfaction with the cosmetic result.

If you’re concerned about bunions discomfort, consult with a DeNiel Foot & Ankle Center healthcare podiatrist, who can provide personalized advice and recommendations based on your situation.