Tuesday, 12 March 2024 00:00

A heel spur is a sharp, bony outgrowth often resulting from irritation of the plantar fascia, known as plantar fasciitis. Increased strain on the Achilles tendon can exacerbate this growth, either beneath the foot, a lower heel spur, or at the back of the heel, a rear heel spur. While visible on X-rays, heel spurs may not be apparent externally. Symptoms include stabbing heel pain, especially when weight is applied, particularly in the morning. Inflammation can cause swelling and warmth, sometimes accompanied by a visible protrusion. Though occasionally asymptomatic, heel spurs can significantly impact mobility and comfort. Common causes involve prolonged or uneven pressure during walking or running, leading to inflammation of the plantar fascia or Achilles tendon. Addressing these issues involves reducing strain, managing inflammation, and enhancing foot muscle strength. Appropriate footwear, weight management, and foot muscle activation are important preventive measures. If you are suffering from a painful heel spur, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can make a proper diagnosis and offer you treatment options fitting your situation.

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 our podiatrists from Superior Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors 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 office located in Long Beach, CA . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

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Tuesday, 05 March 2024 00:00

One significant risk facing runners is the potential for stress fractures, which are hairline cracks in one of many bones in the feet. Metatarsal stress fractures often occur in the 2nd or 3rd metatarsals, due to their structure and the forces exerted during running. Pronation can add to the amount of stress on these bones. Navicular stress fractures can be recognized as midfoot pain on the outside of the foot. This type of fracture is more common in runners with flat feet or those engaged in track and field or middle distance running. Calcaneus stress fractures cause heel pain, especially during weight-bearing activities. They are often the result of increased training intensity or frequency. Stress fractures in the big toe are most often found in the bone closest to the first metatarsal. These fractures occur due to repetitive loading during running, resulting in localized pain and swelling around the first metatarsophalangeal, or MTP, joint.  If you have pain in your feet that may be the result of running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and diagnosis.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact our podiatrists from Superior Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

  • Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
  • Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
  • Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
  • Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
  • Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Long Beach, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Friday, 01 March 2024 00:00

Heel pain can negatively affect your day-to-day life. Simple activities like walking can become incredibly uncomfortable or painful due to heel pain.

Don’t live with heel pain and get treated.

Tuesday, 27 February 2024 00:00

Every day, foot pain affects millions of people worldwide, ranging from dull aches to sharp stings. Some experience foot pain solely at night, disrupting their sleep quality. One common cause is plantar fasciitis, where the tissue running from the foot's front through the arch to the heel becomes inflamed, often worsened by factors like flat feet or tight calf muscles. Another foot pain culprit is Morton’s neuroma, which is characterized by pinching or inflammation around the nerves in your toes and can lead to burning or shooting pains. Pregnancy-related changes in calcium levels may cause leg and foot cramps. Diabetes can damage foot nerves due to high blood sugar levels. Fibromyalgia sufferers often experience widespread pain, including in the feet, exacerbated at night by low cortisol levels. Lifestyle factors and foot anatomy also contribute to nighttime foot pain. If you are experiencing persistent nighttime foot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with our podiatrists from Superior Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors 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 our office located in Long Beach, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Tuesday, 20 February 2024 00:00

Practicing everyday foot care is an essential yet often overlooked aspect of overall well-being. The feet, our foundation for mobility, endure daily stresses and strains, making regular foot care a vital practice. By incorporating simple routines into our daily lives, such as washing our feet, moisturizing, and inspecting them for any signs of discomfort or abnormalities, we can prevent common issues like dry skin, fungal infections, and calluses. Wearing proper footwear that provides support and comfort is equally vital, as ill-fitting shoes can lead to a range of problems, from blisters to chronic conditions such as bunions. Regular toenail maintenance helps prevent ingrown toenails and other nail-related complications. Additionally, incorporating gentle stretching exercises and elevating the feet after prolonged periods of standing or sitting promotes circulation and reduces swelling. Prioritizing everyday foot care not only maintains the health and appearance of our feet but contributes to overall physical well-being. If you are seeking additional tips on effective daily foot care, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact our podiatrists from Superior Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Long Beach, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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