Items filtered by date: July 2022

Two conditions that involve the growth of bone spurs in the heel are heel spur syndrome and insertional Achilles tendonitis. Calcaneal (heel) spurs commonly develop in people who have plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the band of tissue that runs along the sole of the foot. Bone spurs sprout as a way of protecting the bottom of the heel. Common causes are strained foot muscles and ligaments, and over-stretching the plantar fascia. Other factors in heel spur development are age, obesity, and osteoarthritis. Fortunately, most heel spurs are not painful. Insertional Achilles tendonitis affects the part of the heel that connects to the leg bone. The spur develops around the tendon and irritates it, causing pain. The inflamed portion of the tendon can then calcify. Insertional Achilles tendonitis usually develops gradually, aided by repetitive running and jumping and the aging process. If you have heel pain, it may be a good idea to consult a podiatrist to conduct an exam and provide treatment based on the diagnosis.

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 Gary J. Kaiserman, DPM from Achilles Footcare 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 offices located in Forest Lane and West Kiest Boulevard Dallas, TX . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

The most common method of differentiating between a broken toe and a bruised toe is to have an X-ray taken. They both can cause severe pain and discomfort. A severely broken toe can look deformed, and the bone can protrude from the toe at an abnormal angle. The symptoms that are associated with both of these types of injuries can include swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. The buddy taping system for a bruised toe can cause the affected toe to feel better, as a result of the stability it provides. This is done by taping the toe to the toe next to it, and having it remain that way for several days. The buddy taping method works well for broken toes, as it causes the injured toe to remain still as the healing process occurs. In both scenarios, it is suggested to refrain from putting weight on the foot, which gives the broken or bruised toe ample time to heal. If you think you have broken or bruised your toe, it is advised to have it checked by a podiatrist who can guide you toward the proper treatment.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Gary J. Kaiserman, DPM from Achilles Footcare Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Forest Lane and West Kiest Boulevard Dallas, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Patients who are diabetic may be familiar with wound care for the feet. Elevated blood sugar levels may cause a foot ulcer to gradually develop and immediate treatment may be necessary to avoid further implications, including amputation in severe cases. There are several types of foot ulcers that diabetic patients may experience. Neuropathy can cause a lack of feeling in the foot and patients are unable to feel the pain caused by an injury. A loss of blood flow to the feet can lead to an ischemic ulcer which can be difficult to treat. If the patient has poor circulation and neuropathy, a neuroischemic ulcer may form and it is said to be the most difficult to heal. Approximately half of foot ulcers become infected, therefore they need to be closely monitored. Diabetic foot ulcer treatment begins with removing infected tissue from the wound. This is called debridement and it is crucial in the prevention of damaged nerves, blood vessels, and tendons. This is followed by reducing existing pressure on the foot ulcer and draining the wound. If you have diabetes, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can treat and manage diabetic foot problems.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Gary J. Kaiserman, DPM from Achilles Footcare Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Forest Lane and West Kiest Boulevard Dallas, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Running is generally thought to be good for overall physical fitness, especially as it applies to cardiovascular health. It also leaves the runner open to several injuries, including plantar fasciitis, bruised heel, and a stress fracture of the heel bone. Other common foot problems associated with running are bunions, ingrown toenails, blisters, and metatarsal stress fractures. These foot conditions can further contribute to pain and discomfort in other body parts like the ankles, legs, knees, and back. Dealing with injuries from running becomes part of a runner’s life and paying attention to your feet is paramount in maintaining a healthy body. Establishing an ongoing relationship with a podiatrist is a wise choice for anyone who intends to make running a part of their life. Signs that it may be time to make an appointment include severe pain when walking, apparent swelling or bruising, and a feeling of numbness or tingling. A podiatrist can examine your feet to determine the cause of your symptoms and offer appropriate treatment plans.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Gary J. Kaiserman, DPM of Achilles Footcare Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Forest Lane and West Kiest Boulevard Dallas, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.