Items filtered by date: February 2023

Tuesday, 28 February 2023 00:00

Heel Pad Syndrome

There are several reasons why heel pain can develop, and one cause is heel pad syndrome. While heel pads break down due to normal use and aging, excessive wear and tear or injury can cause the heel pads to shrink in size. This condition can also result from obesity, other health or foot conditions, or from wearing poorly cushioned shoes. Heel pads are like shock absorbing cushions in the heels. They are composed of fat and flexible, but tough fibers. They not only absorb shock from the impact of standing and mobility, they help to distribute the body weight and protect the bones and joints in the foot. With this syndrome, the heel pads lose their elasticity and shock-absorbing capacity, and severe pain in the middle of the heel can develop. It can feel similar to a bad bruise without being visible. The good news is that this is a treatable condition which may improve with exercise. Since it is difficult to distinguish one cause of heel pain from another, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment for your particular heel pain.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Kristopher Jerry, DPM of Podiatry Health Services . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

  • Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
  • Wearing non-supportive shoes
  • Weight change           
  • Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Port St Lucie, Stuart, and Hollywood, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Heel Pain
Tuesday, 21 February 2023 00:00

Orthotics Versus Prosthetics

Some patients may not be fully familiar with the similarities and differences between orthotics and prosthetics. While both can be used to treat conditions of the feet, they are significantly different. Importantly, prosthetic devices in this context are mostly artificial legs. These devices can be used if an individual has lost a leg, perhaps by amputation. Orthotics, on the other hand, are either custom-made or over-the-counter shoe inserts that are designed to treat specific conditions of the feet. Therefore, both orthotics and prosthetics are significantly different medical devices. However, they are also similar in some respects. Namely, both orthotics and prosthetics can help individuals with serious health conditions to live lives that are better and less restrictive. It is suggested that you contact a podiatrist for more information about these devices.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Kristopher Jerry, DPM from Podiatry Health Services . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Port St Lucie, Stuart, and Hollywood, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Ankle Foot Orthotics for Athletes
Tuesday, 14 February 2023 00:00

The Etiology of Heel Spurs

A heel spur is essentially a hook-shaped bony formation that can sometimes develop on the underside of an individual’s heel bone. The spur will grow and point toward the toes of the foot. Interestingly, there has been some debate within the scientific community about the exact etiology, or cause, of heel spurs. For example, one’s hereditary propensity towards heel spurs was thought to be a contributing factor to the development of heel spurs. Today, it is primarily thought that excessive pronation is the main culprit for heel spurs. Overpronation is associated with unnatural biomechanics of the feet. This is all to say that excessive pressure or an awkward way of moving the feet when engaging in physical activity can contribute significantly to the development of heel spurs. Consider contacting a podiatrist today for more information about heel spurs and for any treatment that you might need.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Kristopher Jerry, DPM from Podiatry Health Services . Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our offices located in Port St Lucie, Stuart, and Hollywood, FL . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Read more about Heel Spurs
Tuesday, 07 February 2023 00:00

Elevating the Feet During Pregnancy

Any woman who has brought a baby to term surely knows that a pregnancy can have an impact on the health of the feet. Part of this is natural because a pregnancy can facilitate changes in the body, and so consequently, the feet are no exception to this. One well-known side effect of pregnancy is essentially the swelling of the feet. The feet and lower legs may swell when liquids accumulate in the feet. Although this is a common side effect of pregnancy, there are several things that a pregnant woman can do to address this problem. Most effectively, an individual can elevate their feet and lower legs to reduce the swelling in the feet. The feet and lower legs can be elevated to a point above the heart to effectively reduce the swelling. Schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today if you are pregnant. 

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Kristopher Jerry, DPM from Podiatry Health Services . Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

  • Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
  • Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
  • Wear shoes with good arch support
  • Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
  • Elevate feet if you experience swelling
  • Massage your feet
  • Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Port St Lucie, Stuart, and Hollywood, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Pregnancy and Foot Health
Wednesday, 01 February 2023 00:00

Gout Pain Can Be Managed

Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.