March 2026

Foot arch pain can affect people of all ages and activity levels. It often develops when the structures that support the arch become strained or inflamed due to overuse, flat feet, high arches, or sudden changes in activity. Symptoms include aching, burning, or sharp pain along the inner or central part of the foot that worsens with standing or walking. The foot may look normal or show subtle swelling, and the arch can feel tender or fatigued, especially first thing in the morning or after long periods on the feet. A podiatrist can help by starting with a detailed history and physical examination, sometimes supported by imaging, to identify the exact cause. Treatment may begin with footwear guidance and custom orthotics, followed by targeted exercises, activity modification, and other therapies to reduce strain and improve support. If you have foot arch pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Brian D. Jackson, DPM from Neuhaus Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Columbia and Pulaski, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gentle exercises play an important role in recovering from an ankle sprain and restoring strength and movement. One common option is the ankle alphabet, where the foot traces letters in the air to encourage controlled motion in multiple directions. Side to side knee swings, performed while seated with the foot flat on the floor, help improve ankle flexibility and ease stiffness without added strain. Towel scrunch exercises focus on strengthening the small muscles of the foot by gripping and pulling a towel with the toes. These movements support balance and stability as healing progresses. Exercises should be done slowly and within a comfortable range. A podiatrist can recommend when to begin these activities and how to progress safely. Proper guidance helps reduce reinjury risk and promotes a more confident return to walking and daily activities. If you have sustained an ankle sprain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment, which may include healing exercises.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Brian D. Jackson, DPM from Neuhaus Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Columbia and Pulaski, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Foot and ankle injuries are frequent concerns for basketball players because quick pivots, sharp stops, and repeated jumping place heavy stress on the lower limbs. Sprains are especially troublesome, often occurring when the foot rolls inward or outward and overstretches the supporting ligaments of the ankle. These basketball injuries can lead to pain, swelling, and difficulty pushing off the ground. Fractures of the foot or ankle can also occur from forceful landings or repeated impact, sometimes affecting bones such as the fifth metatarsal or the talus. Conditions like Achilles tendon strains or ruptures develop when the tendon is pushed beyond its limit during explosive movements. Shoes that lack adequate support or worn-out athletic shoes can increase the risk of injury, as can wearing flip-flops before or after games. A podiatrist can evaluate the injury, order imaging if needed, and provide effective treatment or discuss surgery when necessary. If you have sustained a foot or ankle injury while playing sports, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Brian D. Jackson, DPM of Neuhaus Foot and Ankle. 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
• 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 contact one of our offices located in Columbia and Pulaski, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

When three parts of the ankle break at the same time, the injury is serious and often unstable. The ankle is made up of the lower ends of the two leg bones and the back portion of the shinbone, all of which work together to form the joint that allows the foot to move up, down, and side to side. These bones also help hold strong bands of tissue in place that keep the ankle steady. A broken ankle of this type usually happens during a high-impact event, such as a car accident, a fall from a height, or a sports injury that causes the ankle to twist forcefully. Severe pain, swelling, bruising, visible deformity, and an inability to stand or walk are common symptoms. Diagnosis requires imaging to see how the bones are positioned. Treatment likely involves surgery to realign the bones and secure them with hardware so the joint can heal properly. If you have broken an ankle, it is suggested that you make an emergency appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Brian D. Jackson, DPM from Neuhaus Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
• Swelling around the area
• Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Columbia and Pulaski, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fasciitis develops when the thick band of tissue supporting the arch becomes irritated from repeated strain. Symptoms of plantar fasciitis include sharp heel pain first thing in the morning or after long periods of standing. Specific exercises can play an important role in recovery because they gently lengthen tight calf muscles, improve flexibility in the arch, and strengthen the small stabilizing muscles of the foot. Improving motion and strength helps reduce the pulling force placed on the heel while walking. A podiatrist evaluates foot structure, walking mechanics, and contributing risk factors before recommending a precise exercise program. These stretching and strengthening plans can be adjusted over time as symptoms improve. Medical treatments may be added to decrease inflammation and protect the tissue while it heals. If you have foot pain related to plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

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 Brian D. Jackson, DPM from Neuhaus Foot and Ankle. 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 one of our offices located in Columbia and Pulaski, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.