Heel spurs are bony growths that protrude from underneath the heel bone. While heel spurs often form alongside plantar fasciitis, they can also form on their own. Either way, heel spurs do have similar symptoms to plantar fasciitis. These symptoms include pain and tenderness under the heel (particularly while bearing weight), pain that is worse in the mornings, and worsening symptoms while running or walking. Heel spurs are generally only discovered through X-rays. They can be very painful, but they also may not be noticed at all. As the fat pad under the heel wears out, heel spurs tend to become more painful. Patients who are struggling with heel pain should consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis of their pain.

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 Gabe Rodriguez, DPM from Sioux Falls Foot Specialist. 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 Sioux Falls, SD . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.

Blisters on the feet are typically the result of friction from shoes or socks rubbing against a concentrated area of skin as you go about your day. Though they can be annoying and uncomfortable, these types of blisters are usually not a cause for concern and tend to go away on their own. If you find yourself with a friction foot blister, do your best to leave it alone. Don’t poke, prod, or pop it. Keep the area clean and cover it with a padded bandage or wrap to protect it from further friction. If the blister pops on its own, wash the area with water and a gentle soap, smooth down the remaining skin flap, apply an antibiotic ointment, and cover with a bandage. If your blister is showing signs of infection, such as redness or oozing, please seek the care of a podiatrist. 

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Gabe Rodriguez, DPM of Sioux Falls Foot Specialist. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition in which the posterior tibial nerve located at the back of the ankle becomes compressed. This leads to symptoms such as pain, burning, tingling, or numbness in the sole and heel of the foot. In about 40-50% of cases, the cause of tarsal tunnel syndrome is unknown, and it appears to arise spontaneously. In other cases, tarsal tunnel syndrome may occur due to a ganglion cyst, bone deformity, twisted and enlarged veins, tenosynovitis, and flat feet, among other causes. Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be diagnosed through ultrasound and MRI and usually responds well to conservative treatments, such as anti-inflammatory medications and orthotics. To learn more about this condition, please consult with a podiatrist.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Gabe Rodriguez, DPM of Sioux Falls Foot Specialist. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

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