Some 2 million people are treated for plantar fasciitis each year, says the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. The condition, which causes pain of the heel, occurs when tissue supporting the foot’s arch becomes irritated. Often, plantar fasciitis develops without an identifiable reason. But obesity, a naturally high arch, running or increased activity raise your…  read on >

Scoliosis is an abnormal curve of the spine. Often diagnosed in early adolescence, most cases show symptoms such as uneven shoulders, waist or hips, says the American Association of Neurological Surgeons. These treatment options may be may be needed: Doctor visits every four to six months. X-rays every few years. Bracing. Surgery. The doctor’s group…  read on >

It’s a simple concept, but new research reinforces the idea: Teens with type 1 diabetes benefit when they feel their concerns have been heard. Teens with type 1 diabetes may experience anger, frustration and anxiety if they haven’t met their treatment goals. Their parents and health care providers may also feel frustrated and may blame…  read on >

Significant but uneven improvements in air quality have greatly reduced U.S. deaths related to air pollution over the past decade, a new study shows. But researchers are concerned that climate change and regulatory rollbacks under the Trump administration will wipe out those advances and put thousands more lives at risk from bad air every year.…  read on >

Taking aspirin or anti-clotting medicines like Plavix won’t boost the risk of another stroke if you’ve already survived a bleeding stroke, a new study suggests. In fact, they might even help guard against a second brain bleed, the researchers noted. The findings “are reassuring for survivors of brain hemorrhage who need to take antiplatelet [anti-clotting]…  read on >

Some people with sleep apnea have an increased risk of cancer, and the odds may be higher for women than men, researchers say. “Recent studies have shown that low blood oxygen levels during the night and disrupted sleep, which are both common in [obstructive sleep apnea], may play an important role in the biology of…  read on >

The food-mood connection isn’t all in your head. In fact, there’s even a name for it — nutritional psychiatry. Scientists in the field are actively looking for connections between diet quality and mental disorders to help treat or even prevent these illnesses. One research review found that a diet high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains…  read on >

You’ve probably never heard of Q fever, but the bacterial disease may be sickening — and killing — more Americans than once believed, a new study suggests. Caused by a bacteria carried by livestock, Query (Q) fever is a rare disease first discovered in 1947 and is found mostly in dry, dusty areas of California…  read on >

Leg swelling typically occurs from fluid buildup or inflammation, says Mayo Clinic. It can affect any part of the leg, including the foot, ankle, calf or thigh. Even for non-emergency problems, prompt care is still recommended. To minimize leg swelling, consider: Restricting the amount of salt in your diet. Putting a pillow under your legs…  read on >

Cannabidiol (CBD) has been receiving a lot of attention lately as a potential treatment for everything from epilepsy to anxiety. Now, researchers report it might also help curb the cravings that come with opioid addiction. Like marijuana, CBD comes from the cannabis plant. Unlike pot, it does not produce a high. The study included 42…  read on >