A heel spur is a calcium deposit that forms under the heel bone, often linked to ongoing strain on the foot. Although the spur itself may not always cause pain, the surrounding tissue can become irritated. Recovery focuses on reducing pressure and inflammation. Wearing supportive shoes with good arch structure, cushioned insoles, and soft heel pads can make a big difference. Stretching the calf and foot regularly helps ease tension along the bottom of the foot. Avoiding high-impact activities allows the area to calm down. In some cases, custom orthotics or targeted exercises may be helpful. While quick relief is possible with the right care, complete healing may still take time. If your heel pain does not improve or becomes more intense, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan.

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 one of our podiatrists from East Ocean Podiatry . Our doctors 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, please feel free to contact our office located in Deerfield Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pregnancy affects nearly every part of the body, including your feet. Many pregnant women notice their feet changing in size. Studies show increases in length, width and volume during pregnancy. This is often due to hormonal changes that loosen ligaments and cause arches to flatten. Fluid retention can also lead to swelling, making shoes feel tighter or uncomfortable. Symptoms may include aching arches, increased shoe size, swollen ankles, and a general feeling of heaviness or fatigue in the feet, especially later in pregnancy. A podiatrist can provide significant relief during this time. They offer custom orthotics to support fallen arches, advice on proper footwear, and treatment to reduce swelling and pain. Routine care from a podiatrist can prevent long-term foot issues and help maintain mobility and comfort throughout pregnancy. If you are dealing with this condition, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with one of our podiatrists from East Ocean Podiatry . Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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

Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, occur when the skin on the heels becomes dry, thickened, and splits open. One common cause is a deficiency in essential nutrients like vitamin E, which helps maintain skin health. Other contributing factors include dry skin, harsh soaps that strip natural oils, poor foot hygiene, wearing improper footwear, and age-related skin thinning. Cracked heels can become painful and lead to infections if left untreated. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity, recommend moisturizing treatments, offer debridement of thick skin, and suggest proper footwear or custom inserts. Cracked heels can be painful. If this applies to you, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can provide expert care and tailored solutions for your foot health needs.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from East Ocean Podiatry . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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

Congenital foot deformities are conditions present at birth that affect the structure and alignment of a child's feet. Metatarsus adductus involves inward bending of the front part of the foot. Clubfoot causes the foot to turn inward and downward. Calcaneovalgus results in an upward and outward positioning of the foot, while congenital vertical talus creates a rigid flatfoot with the sole facing outward. These deformities can impact walking, balance, and comfort, if not treated early. A podiatrist can diagnose these conditions through physical examination and imaging, then develop a treatment plan that may include stretching, casting, bracing, or surgical correction. If you notice unusual positioning or movement in your child's feet, it is strongly suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist to ensure early intervention and healthy development.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of East Ocean Podiatry . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

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