Heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the heel bone. They can form where the plantar fascia, a strong band of tissue along the bottom of the foot, attaches to the heel. Repeated strain on this tissue and the foot muscles can contribute to spur formation. Heel spurs are also linked with plantar fasciitis, which causes irritation in the plantar fascia. However, a heel spur does not always cause pain. Some people have a spur that is discovered on an X-ray even though they have no heel symptoms.

When heel spurs do cause symptoms, patients can feel pain and tenderness on the bottom of the heel. Discomfort can become more noticeable when standing, walking, or running. Some people describe the pain as feeling like pins pressing into the bottom of the foot. Because several foot problems can cause heel pain, identifying the source is important. A podiatrist can examine the heel, ask about activities that trigger discomfort, and evaluate foot structure. Imaging can also show whether a bony growth is present and help confirm the diagnosis.

A podiatrist can develop a treatment plan based on the cause and severity of heel pain. Treatment can focus on reducing pressure around the heel and improving the way the foot functions. Options can include custom orthotics, supportive shoe recommendations, and targeted stretching. A podiatrist can also evaluate whether plantar fasciitis or another foot problem is contributing to the symptoms. When pain continues despite conservative treatment, other treatment choices can be discussed. If you have symptoms of heel spurs, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

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 Ali Davis, DPM from The Foot Clinic. 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, please feel free to contact our office located in Overland Park, KS . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Flat feet occur when the arches of the feet appear flattened while standing. In young children, little or no visible arch can be a normal part of development. The arch usually becomes more noticeable as a child grows. Flexible flatfoot is one form in which the arch appears when the child is sitting or standing on tiptoes, but flattens when standing normally. Many children with flexible flat feet have no pain. However, some develop discomfort or problems with activity that deserve a closer evaluation by a podiatrist.

Parents can watch for signs that flat feet are affecting a child’s comfort or movement. Symptoms can include pain, tenderness, or cramping in the feet or legs. Some children have difficulty with certain activities or become tired more quickly than expected. Another type, called rigid flatfoot, remains flat whether the child is standing or sitting. This form can be linked to problems with the bones or joints of the foot. A podiatrist can examine foot structure, watch how the child walks, and assess the range of motion. Imaging tests can provide more information in certain cases.

Treatment depends on the type of flatfoot and whether it is causing symptoms. A podiatrist can determine whether treatment is appropriate after evaluating the child’s feet and movement. Care for painful flexible flatfoot can include custom orthotics, wearing supportive shoes, and stretching exercises. These approaches can help support the feet and improve comfort with activity. More complex cases require treatment based on the underlying cause and the severity of symptoms. Regular evaluation can also help a podiatrist track changes in foot development as a child grows. If your child has pain from having flat feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and managemnt solutions. 

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Ali Davis, DPM from The Foot Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

The Achilles tendon is a strong band of tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It helps the foot push off the ground when walking, running, or jumping. An injury can range from irritation caused by repeated strain to a partial or complete tear. Symptoms include pain near the back of the heel, swelling, and stiffness. An Achilles tendon tear can cause a popping sensation and weakness. Some patients feel as though they were kicked in the calf. They may have trouble bearing weight, pushing off the injured foot, or standing on their toes.

Achilles tendon injuries can occur when the tendon is placed under sudden or repeated stress. Running, jumping, and quickly changing direction can raise the risk. A missed step or fall can also cause a tear. Risk factors include tight calf muscles, a previous Achilles tendon injury, and a sudden increase in activity. Pain that appears gradually can signal inflammation or minor tendon damage. Sudden pain with a pop, loss of strength, or difficulty walking can point to a more serious tear and requires immediate help.

A podiatrist typically asks how the injury happened and examines the back of the ankle for pain, swelling, and weakness. The examination also checks ankle movement and the tendon’s ability to support a push-off motion. Ultrasound or MRI imaging may be ordered to confirm whether the tendon is irritated, partly torn, or completely torn. Treatment depends on the location and severity of the damage. A podiatrist can protect the tendon with a cast, brace, or walking boot while it heals. Follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to monitor healing and guide a safe return to activity. If you have an Achilles tendon injury, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Ali Davis, DPM of The Foot Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Overland Park, KS . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Heel pain can range from a mild ache to discomfort that makes walking difficult. The heel is the largest bone in the foot and handles significant pressure with each step. Pain can develop after injury or repeated stress. Plantar fasciitis occurs when excessive pressure damages the thick band of tissue that supports the bottom of the foot, leading to pain and stiffness. Achilles tendonitis can also cause heel pain when the tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel becomes irritated from overuse.

Other causes of heel pain include sprains, fractures, and bursitis. Bursitis affects small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion areas where tissues meet bone. Certain forms of arthritis can also produce heel discomfort. Symptoms deserve prompt attention when pain begins suddenly or becomes severe. Redness and swelling are other warning signs. Heel pain can change the way a person walks, which can affect balance and increase the risk of falling. Finding the cause is important because different heel problems require different approaches to treatment.

A podiatrist can evaluate heel pain by examining the foot and asking when the symptoms started. The examination can help determine whether the problem involves the plantar fascia, Achilles tendon, or another structure. Imaging, like an X-ray, can provide more information when a bone injury or another problem is suspected. Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the pain. A podiatrist can recommend supportive devices that reduce pressure on painful areas and improve foot support. Proper treatment can help protect mobility and reduce the chance of further injury. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Ali Davis, DPM of The Foot Clinic. 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 feel free to contact our office located in Overland Park, KS . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.