Items filtered by date: September 2024

Heel spurs are bony growths that form on the underside of the heel bone, often resulting from long-term strain on the foot’s ligaments and tendons. They can be quite painful, typically resulting in a sharp, stabbing sensation in the heel, especially with the first steps in the morning or after prolonged periods of rest. Symptoms also include tenderness and swelling around the heel area. Treatment options for heel spurs include wearing supportive shoes with cushioned insoles, performing stretching exercises to alleviate tension in the foot, and using orthotic devices to correct alignment issues. In some cases, pain relief or anti-inflammatory medications may help manage discomfort. If you think you have heel spurs, it is suggested you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide a personalized treatment plan and address underlying issues.

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 Jennifer M. Kern, DPM from South Carolina. 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 West Columbia, SC . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Heel pain can stem from various causes, leading to significant discomfort and disruption in daily activities. One of the most prevalent causes is plantar fasciitis, where inflammation of the tissue connecting your heel to your toes leads to sharp pain. Other possible culprits include heel spurs, which are bony growths that develop on the heel bone, and Achilles tendinitis, an inflammation of the tendon connecting your calf muscles to your heel. Complications from untreated heel pain include an altered gait, which might lead to additional strain on other joints and muscles, potentially causing further issues. Proper diagnosis is key to addressing the root cause of heel pain and preventing ongoing problems. If you are experiencing persistent heel pain, it is suggested you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide a comprehensive evaluation and recommend an effective treatment plan to relieve your symptoms.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Jennifer M. Kern, DPM of South Carolina. Our doctor 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 office located in West Columbia, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, redness, and swelling. It commonly affects the big toe and can be caused by improper nail trimming, tight footwear, or genetic predisposition. Symptoms include sharp, throbbing pain, increased sensitivity, and, in more severe cases, infection with pus or drainage. Initial treatments for an ingrown toenail involve soaking the foot in warm, soapy water to reduce inflammation and pain. Mild pain relievers and antibiotic ointments can manage discomfort and prevent infection. Avoid cutting the nail yourself as improper trimming can worsen the condition. If symptoms persist or worsen, professional treatment from a podiatrist may be necessary. For a comprehensive evaluation and effective management of an ingrown toenail, it's suggested you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Jennifer M. Kern, DPM of South Carolina. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

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

Bunions are bony protrusions that develop at the base of the big toe, where the toe meets the foot. This condition occurs when the big toe angles towards the second toe, causing a misalignment. Over time, this misalignment can lead to swelling, pain, and a noticeable bump on the outside of the foot. The skin over the bunion may become red and irritated due to friction from footwear. Bunions can also cause difficulty in finding comfortable shoes and may lead to issues with walking or standing for extended periods. Common reasons that bunions develop include genetics or from wearing shoes that are too tight. If you notice signs of a bunion forming, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you treatment solutions.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Jennifer M. Kern, DPM of South Carolina. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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