The pain from having a heel spur can be extremely uncomfortable. Heel spurs occur because of a detached ligament that connects the plantar fascia to the heel bone. A heel spur can develop from standing on hard surfaces for much of the day and many patients can physically feel a small bone growth surrounding the heel. Additional symptoms can include a red and swollen heel, and ankle pain may develop from an altered gait or walking style. Relief may be found when the affected foot is frequently elevated, which may help to reduce some of the swelling. Some patients find it beneficial to wear shoes that have additional cushioning in the heel area and taking over-the-counter pain relievers may temporarily ease the pain and discomfort. If you have heel pain, please consult with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose heel spurs, and offer treatment options that are correct for you.
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 Michael F. Esber, DPM from Arizona Foot Health Center. 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 office located in Sun City West, AZ . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
Heel spurs are pesky little bony growths that can develop on the bottom of the heel bone in the feet. Heel spurs are shaped like hooks. Since orthotics are devices that can help mitigate pain and treat foot conditions, many patients with heel spurs are curious about whether or not orthotics may be used to treat heel spurs. Interestingly, heel spur inserts can help with just that. Orthotic devices used for heel spurs typically come with significantly deep heel cups. Additionally, they will have major cushioning that is meant to increase the extent to which the device absorbs shock during weight-bearing activities. Typically, these orthotic devices can be made of a range of different materials, including foam and gel. If you are someone that struggles with heel spurs, consider contacting a podiatrist today to learn if you would benefit from the use of orthotics. Schedule an appointment today.
If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Michael F. Esber, DPM from Arizona Foot Health Center. 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 office located in Sun City West, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
The medical term for swollen feet and ankles is referred to as edema. It can be a common occurrence after a long plane or car ride, or from standing for much of the workday. Specific medical conditions that can include heart failure, kidney disease, or infection may lead to getting swollen feet and can be a side effect of pregnancy. Mild relief may be found when the feet are frequently elevated, in addition to reducing sodium intake. Many people find comfort in putting support stockings on in the morning before the swelling begins for the day. Walking can increase blood flow to the legs, possibly reducing existing swelling, and it is beneficial to walk as often as possible during the day. If you suffer from swollen feet, please consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is and offer effective treatment methods.
Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Michael F. Esber, DPM of Arizona Foot Health Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:
Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet.
Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Sun City West, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
A bunion is a detrimental foot condition that can develop on the side of the big toe. Bunions can form either in response to a genetic disposition towards bunions or in response to foot injuries. Wearing narrow shoes frequently can also result in the development of bunions. Many individuals who are curious about learning more about this condition often wonder what exactly bunions look like and what their normal size is. Bunions are shaped like a bony lump, bulge, or bump. This lump is typically located at the point where the joint is located in the toe. Bunions can come in many different sizes. Regular bunions typically form on the side of the big toe. However, smaller bunions are also possible as well. For example, bunions that are smaller in size are known as bunionettes and can form on the side of the pinky or little toe. If you are interested in learning more about bunion shapes and sizes, contact a podiatrist today who will be able to help answer your questions.
If you are suffering from bunions, contact Michael F. Esber, DPM of Arizona Foot Health Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is a Bunion?
A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.
Why Do Bunions Form?
Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary
Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions
How Are Bunions Diagnosed?
Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.
How Are Bunions Treated?
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Sun City West, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Painful deformities, such as hammertoes, can be treated. Stop living with foot pain, and have beautiful feet again!
Toenail fungus can become painful and turn into an infection. This condition usually starts as white or yellowish spots on the tips of the toenails, eventually causing unsightly thickening, discoloration, and crumbling. Anyone can get toenail fungus, but some populations are more at risk than others. For example, those over 60 are more apt to suffer from this condition because as they age, their nails become drier, more brittle and cracked and fungi can sneak through. Those who sweat more than usual have a prime breeding ground for toenail fungus. Wearing tight shoes and thick socks can make feet sweat more and invite fungus to grow inside. If one has had toenail fungus before, there is a high likelihood of getting it again. Walking barefoot in humid and wet public places, such as swimming pools or locker rooms, can cause toenail fungus to spread. If you have signs of toenail fungus, seek the counsel of a podiatrist as soon as possible so that the condition will not worsen or spread to others.
If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Michael F. Esber, DPM of Arizona Foot Health Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Symptoms
Treatment
If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.
Prevention
In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.
In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Sun City West, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
