Heel pain can stem from various causes, each requiring a different approach for relief. One common cause of heel pain is plantar fasciitis, where inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot leads to sharp heel pain. Another possibility is Achilles tendinitis, which affects the tendon that connects the calf muscle to the heel. Stress fractures or heel spurs can also contribute to discomfort. Additionally, poor footwear, excessive physical activity, and obesity can increase heel pain. Finding relief often involves a combination of strategies. Resting the foot and taking mild pain relievers can reduce inflammation. Stretching exercises for the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia can improve flexibility. Supportive footwear and orthotic inserts can provide additional comfort. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine the cause and treat it accordingly.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Pete O’Donald, DPM of Texas. 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 Nederland, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot bruises occur when blood vessels in the foot rupture, causing blood to leak into surrounding tissues. The types of foot bruises can include contusions, hematomas, and purpura, each with distinct characteristics and causes. Contusions result from direct injury, such as bumping or hitting the foot, that lead to swelling, pain, and discoloration. Hematomas involve significant bleeding, where blood pools under the skin, often due to more severe trauma. Purpura, on the other hand, occurs without injury and is typically linked to underlying medical conditions, such as blood disorders or infections. The causes of foot bruises can range from minor accidents, such as tripping or wearing ill-fitting shoes, to more serious conditions like fractures or systemic illnesses. Because foot bruises can signal various issues, from simple injuries to significant health concerns, it is essential to seek a medical evaluation from a podiatrist. If you have unexplained bruises on your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with this type of doctor for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Pete O’Donald, DPM from Texas. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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

Finding the right shoe fit is vital for comfort and foot health. Begin by ensuring there is adequate room for your toes, as they should be able to wiggle freely without pressing against the shoe’s front. The sides of the shoe should hug your feet snugly without causing pinching or gaps. Proper heel fit is also essential, and the heel should stay securely in place without slipping or rubbing. Consider factors such as foot arch, width, and any specific foot conditions that might influence shoe size. Remember that feet can swell throughout the day, so try shoes later in the day for the best fit. Properly fitted shoes reduce the risk of blisters, calluses, and other foot issues, ensuring both comfort and support. If you have developed a foot condition as a result of wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can treat your foot ailment, and guide you in proper shoe fitting.

It is important to find shoes that fit you properly in order to avoid a variety of different foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Pete O’Donald, DPM from Texas. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

Shoes have many different functions. They cushion our body weight, protect our feet, and allow us to safely play sports. You should always make sure that the shoes you wear fit you properly in order to avoid injuries and deformities such as: bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and more. It is important to note that although a certain pair of shoes might be a great fit for someone else, that doesn’t mean they will be a great fit for you. This is why you should always try on shoes before buying them to make sure they are worth the investment. Typically, shoes need to be replaced ever six months to one year of regular use.

Tips for Proper Shoe Fitting

• Select a shoe that is shaped like your foot
• Don’t buy shoes that fit too tight, expecting them to stretch to fit
• Make sure there is enough space (3/8” to ½”) for your longest toe at the end of each shoe when you are standing up
• Walk in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right
• Don’t select shoes by the size marked inside the shoe, but by how the shoe fits your foot

The shoes you buy should always feel as good as they look. Shoes that fit properly will last longer, feel better, and improve your way of life each day.

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

Ankle and foot fractures are common injuries in sports due to the high-impact nature of activities and sudden directional changes. These fractures occur when the bones in the foot or ankle break due to excessive force, such as during a fall, collision, or awkward landing. Symptoms of ankle and foot fractures include intense pain, swelling, bruising, and an inability to bear weight on the affected foot. The deformity may also be visible in severe cases. Athletes may hear a cracking sound at the time of injury. Treatment for these fractures typically involves immobilization, using a cast or splint to allow the bones to heal properly. Severe fractures may require surgery to realign and stabilize the bones with screws or plates. Targeted exercises are essential for restoring strength, flexibility, and function. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are imperative for a full recovery and to prevent long-term complications. If you have incurred a foot or ankle fracture in sports, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Pete O’Donald, DPM of Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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

Plantar fasciitis causes distinct symptoms centered on the sole of the foot, particularly near the heel and arch. Individuals often experience sharp pain or discomfort along the bottom of the foot, radiating from the heel toward the toes. The pain tends to be most intense during the initial steps after waking up or following prolonged periods of rest, known as post-static dyskinesia. Throughout the day, the pain may lessen with movement but can intensify after long periods of standing or walking. Some describe the pain from plantar fasciitis as a dull ache or burning sensation. The arch of the foot may also feel tender to the touch, especially near the heel where the plantar fascia attaches to the bone. If you are experiencing heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist sooner rather than later. This foot doctor can accurately diagnose plantar fasciitis and begin an effective relief and treatment plan.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Pete O’Donald, DPM from Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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