Items filtered by date: August 2022

Heel spurs can be a pesky annoyance that may keep a runner off of the running track. Heel spurs are essentially bony outgrowths that can develop on the bottom of the heel facing inward. These heel spurs are typically made up of calcium deposits and they can cause discomfort. If you are diagnosed with heel spurs and cannot wait to get back on the running track, there are several things to keep in mind. Before running again, you can take extra care of your plantar fascia, the band of tissue that runs from your heel to your toes. You might do this by slowly and gently rolling a cold water bottle underneath your feet while in a seated position. You can do this one foot at a time. You might also perform heel drops carefully to slowly rebuild the muscles in your feet. Heel drops can be particularly helpful in targeting the plantar fascia and the calf muscles. Lastly, if you are cleared by a medical professional to begin running again, it is suggested to start slowly and cautiously. If you are a runner who has or is recovering from heel spurs, consider contacting a podiatrist who can help 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 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.

If you are the parent of growing children, then you surely know the importance of looking after their health to make sure that they mature into healthy, vibrant young adults. When they complain about pain in their feet, therefore, you might take these complaints seriously. Some children often experience some kind of heel pain, typically from overuse or an underlying condition or injury. Although there are many potential causes of heel pain in a child, one of the most common overuse injuries that might be causing pain is known as plantar fasciitis. This condition primarily affects the plantar fascia, the tissue that runs from the heel to the bottom of the toes. Children who suffer from plantar fasciitis will sometimes experience pain most prominently when walking at the beginning of the day. This condition can occur from excessive strain put on the feet through sports and other physical activities, or simply from wearing footwear that provides inadequate support and cushioning. Living with plantar fasciitis can be quite uncomfortable. If your child is involved in a sport, it might be very difficult for them to be able to painlessly continue to play if the condition is left untreated. If your child is complaining about heel pain, consider taking them to the podiatrist who can determine if they are suffering from plantar fasciitis or some other kind of condition.  

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Gabe Rodriguez, DPM  from Sioux Falls Foot Specialist. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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.