Items filtered by date: October 2023

A heel spur is a common foot condition that is often discussed in the context of heel pain and discomfort. Despite their reputation, they are not actually sharp, pointy growths, as the term may imply. Instead, heel spurs are calcium deposits that form on the underside of the heel bone. These deposits often develop over an extended period of time due to chronic inflammation or stress on the plantar fascia, the band of tissue that connects the heel to the toes. The primary characteristic of heel spurs is the accompanying pain. This discomfort is often described as a sharp, stabbing sensation, particularly with the first steps in the morning or after prolonged periods of rest. It is important to note that not everyone with heel spurs experiences pain, as many people have them without any symptoms. The causes of heel spurs are diverse, with factors such as obesity, gait abnormalities, or wearing inadequate footwear contributing significantly. Heel spurs are a condition that is often linked to heel pain, but they are generally not the sole cause. If you are experiencing persistent heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist, who can accurately diagnose and treat heel spurs if they are the culprit.

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 one of our podiatrists from Brondon Foot and Ankle. 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 Centerville, OH . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Stress fractures are tiny, gradual bone cracks caused by overuse or repetitive activities, common in athletes. Unlike sudden regular fractures, they develop over time, often affecting the feet and lower limbs. Risk factors include excessive stress, hard surfaces, and rapid changes in exercise intensity. Other causes are weak muscles, joint issues, osteoporosis, medications, poor footwear, and vitamin deficiencies. Symptoms include localized pain, swelling, tenderness, and discomfort during high-impact activities. Diagnosis involves a physical assessment, potentially followed by an X-ray or MRI. Treatment includes rest, compression, training modification, and low-impact activities. Supportive footwear, custom foot orthotics, anti-inflammatories, and exercises can also help. Surgery may be needed in severe cases. Ignoring stress fractures can lead to complete fractures, non-healing, bone necrosis, and surgery. If you are experiencing foot or ankle pain, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose the issue and provide treatment options.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Brondon Foot and Ankle. 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 Centerville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

High heels are often celebrated for their fashionable appearance, but it is essential to recognize their potential negative effects on foot health. These stylish shoes can lead to a range of foot problems. First, they alter the natural position of the foot, forcing it into an unnatural shape that puts excessive pressure on the toes and the ball of the foot. This can lead to pain and discomfort and may contribute to conditions such as bunions or hammertoes. Additionally, high heels can affect balance, increasing the risk of ankle sprains or fractures. Prolonged wear of high heels can lead to Achilles tendon shortening, causing pain and reduced flexibility. While high heels may enhance your outfit, it is vital to prioritize your foot health. Opting for comfortable, supportive footwear when possible and limiting high-heel use can help mitigate these negative effects on your feet. If you are interested in gathering more information about the negative effects high heels can have on your feet, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can provide you with the information you are seeking.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Brondon Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

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

A broken ankle is a painful and potentially serious injury that requires immediate attention. One of the most apparent signs of a broken ankle is severe pain, often accompanied by swelling and bruising around the affected area. You may find it challenging or impossible to bear weight on the injured ankle. Deformity is another clear indicator of a broken ankle. If the ankle appears misaligned or if the bone has broken through the skin, it is a clear sign of a fracture. Reduced range of motion in the ankle joint is another symptom. Additionally, attempting to move the ankle may cause further pain. Numbness or tingling in the foot or toes can also occur, indicating nerve involvement. If you suspect a broken ankle, seek immediate medical attention. An accurate diagnosis, often involving X-rays, is essential. Treatment options include casting, bracing, or surgery. If you have broken your ankle, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat this condition. 

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Brondon Foot and Ankle. Our doctors 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 our office located in Centerville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Dry, cracked heels are a common issue that can cause discomfort. These fissures in the skin often result from dryness, pressure, or various lifestyle and medical factors. While not usually a severe health concern, untreated cracked heels can become painful. This condition typically starts with dry skin. Daily activities such as standing, walking, or running exert pressure on the feet, causing the heel pads to expand. When combined with dryness, the skin can crack, creating openings for bacteria and viruses. Other potential causes of cracked heels include lifestyle choices that can include walking barefoot, taking hot showers, or using harsh soaps. Wearing ill-fitting shoes with poor support can also contribute to cracked heels. On a medical front, factors like diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, fungal infections, and hypothyroidism may also lead to developing cracked heels. Preventing cracked heels involves addressing dry skin and its underlying causes. Moisturizing is key, and products such as custom shoe inserts, padded socks, and heel relief sleeves can help protect and hydrate the skin. To treat existing dry, cracked heels, it is helpful to focus on hydration and protection. If this problem persists or causes pain, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a more advanced treatment plan.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Brondon Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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