Items filtered by date: November 2024

Heel fat pad syndrome, also known as fat pad atrophy, occurs when the natural cushioning under the heel shrinks or loses its elasticity. It leads to reduced shock absorption and increased heel pain. The degeneration of the heel fat pad often results from prolonged pressure or repetitive high-impact activities, such as running or jumping. Heel fat pad atrophy is commonly mistaken for plantar fasciitis, though each condition has distinct causes and treatments. Age, obesity, and certain medical conditions can increase the risk, as these factors contribute to fat pad thinning and weakened tissue integrity. Biomechanical issues, like improper arch alignment or gait imbalance, also can place undue strain on the heel pad. A podiatrist can conduct a thorough exam, which may include digital imaging to confirm the diagnosis and evaluate the extent of fat pad thinning. Treatment often includes custom orthotics and tailored exercises to strengthen foot mechanics and redistribute pressure on the heel. If you have constant or recurring heel pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Florida Ankle & Foot Institute. Our doctors 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 Tavernier, Marathon, and Key West, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Corns are dense patches of hardened skin that develop on the feet, often as a response to pressure and friction. Corns commonly form on the top or sides of toes or the outer edge of the foot, typically where footwear consistently rubs. High heels, wearing tight or poorly fitted shoes, and even walking without socks can contribute to corn formation by creating repeated friction. Corns are distinct from calluses due to their smaller, deeper size and hard core surrounded by inflamed skin, which can be painful when pressure is applied. Symptoms of corns include a rough, raised bump, tender skin, and occasional flakiness. A podiatrist can diagnose a corn through visual examination, ensuring that other conditions like cysts or warts are ruled out. Professional treatment includes carefully trimming the thickened skin, applying medicated patches, and possibly prescribing custom orthotics to prevent recurrence. If you have developed a painful corn, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of Florida Ankle & Foot Institute. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Tavernier, Marathon, and Key West, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar warts are small, rough growths that typically appear on the bottom of the feet, often on the balls and heels due to constant pressure. These warts are caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV, entering through small cuts or weak points in the skin. Although plantar warts often resolve on their own in children, adults may need more proactive treatment. A podiatrist can offer a variety of medical treatments to eliminate plantar warts effectively. Cryotherapy, which involves freezing the wart, is a common clinical procedure, as is using prescription-strength salicylic acid to gradually peel away the wart. For persistent cases, options like minor surgical removal, laser therapy, or immunotherapy may be recommended. These treatments aim to remove the wart and reduce the risk of recurrence by addressing both the wart itself and the virus. If you have a plantar wart, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Florida Ankle & Foot Institute. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Tavernier, Marathon, and Key West, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

High heels are a popular shoe choice for many, but they can often lead to painful foot blisters. The structure of high heels places excessive pressure on specific areas of the feet, particularly the toes and the heel, which can cause friction against the shoe material. This friction, combined with sweat and prolonged wear, creates an ideal environment for blisters to form. To avoid this discomfort, selecting well-fitted shoes with adequate padding and support is essential. Wearing thick socks or protective blister pads can help reduce friction. It is also beneficial to gradually break in new heels by wearing them for short periods. Additionally, maintaining foot hygiene and keeping feet dry can minimize the risk of blisters. If you have problematic blisters from wearing high heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you relief and additional prevention tips.

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 Florida Ankle & Foot Institute. 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 offices located in Tavernier, Marathon, and Key West, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.