January 2024

Heel spurs, bony protrusions at the base of the heel, can be a source of persistent discomfort, demanding a closer examination of the factors contributing to their development and the signs indicative of their presence. These bony outgrowths often stem from the prolonged strain on the plantar fascia, a band of tissue connecting the heel to the toes. Repetitive stress, typically associated with activities like running or standing for extended periods, may cause the plantar fascia to pull away from the heel bone, leading to the formation of heel spurs. Symptoms manifest as a sharp, stabbing pain, particularly during the first steps in the morning or after prolonged periods of rest. Pain may also intensify with activity. While not everyone with heel spurs experiences symptoms, understanding the potential causes and recognizing these signs empowers individuals to seek timely intervention. If you have heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you confer with a chiropodist who can accurately diagnose and treat heel spurs.

Heel spurs are bony outgrowths from calcium deposits. They occur at the back of the heel bone or underneath the heel bone and usually form in response to chronic irritation of the Achilles tendon or plantar fascia. They are often asymptomatic, but if you are suffering from heel pain, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Symptoms of Heel Spurs

• Tenderness

• Heel pain

• Pain when walking

• No symptoms

Diagnosis

Since heel spurs are often asymptomatic, they are usually only diagnosed when they are found on the heels incidentally during an X-ray taken for another reason. Nevertheless, if you have heel pain, and particularly if you have plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendonitis, it may be worth it to see if you have heel spurs too. 

Treatment

Unless they are causing symptoms, heel spurs typically don’t require any treatment. When they are symptomatic, treatments are typically conservative. They may include resting and icing the affected foot, taking anti-inflammatory medications, and wearing orthotics or supportive footwear, especially while exercising. 

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

The distribution of pressure on the feet plays a critical role in understanding the effects of wearing high heels. When someone wears high heels, most of their body weight is concentrated on the ball of the foot and the heel, with less pressure on the arch and toes. This shift in weight distribution can lead to various discomforts and health issues. Wearing high heels can increase the pressure on the forefoot significantly, potentially causing foot pain, blisters, and calluses. The unnatural posture created by high heels can also affect the alignment of the spine and cause lower back pain. Additionally, excessive pressure on the ball of the foot may lead to conditions like metatarsalgia, which is a painful inflammation of the metatarsal bones. Understanding the distribution of pressure on the feet is essential for individuals who frequently wear high heels. It highlights the importance of choosing comfortable and properly fitting footwear to minimize the negative impacts of high heels on foot health. If you enjoy wearing high heels, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a chiropodist to better understand the effects they have had on your feet, and how to manage this.

High heels have been in style for centuries, but unfortunately, they have also been damaging feet for centuries. If you would like to learn more about how high heels can hurt your feet, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

High heels can cause a variety of problems, including:

• Foot and ankle pain

• Foot and ankle injuries

• Toe pain and deformities 

• Gait abnormalities

• Achilles tendonitis 

• Changes in posture

• Difficulty balancing

• Leg, hip, and back pain

If you are reluctant to abandon your high heels, you can still wear them, but should take measures to minimize damage to your feet: 

• Wear shoes with heels no higher than 2 inches

• Choose properly fitted shoes

• Choose shoes with a wide toe box

• Wear high heels infrequently 

• When wearing high heels, take them off periodically to stretch and relax your feet 

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

Pregnancy is a transformative journey marked by various bodily changes, and one common occurrence that many expectant mothers encounter is swelling in the ankles and feet. This phenomenon, known as edema, is primarily attributed to the body's increased blood and fluid volume during pregnancy. As the uterus expands, it exerts pressure on the pelvic veins, hindering the normal return of blood from the legs. This leads to a buildup of fluid in the lower extremities, causing swelling. Hormonal shifts also play a role, promoting water retention and contributing to the overall expansion of bodily fluids. Additionally, the growing baby puts pressure on surrounding blood vessels, exacerbating fluid accumulation. While generally a normal part of pregnancy, managing edema involves staying hydrated, elevating the legs, and incorporating gentle exercises. If your feet and ankles have become swollen during pregnancy, it is suggested that you visit a chiropodist who can offer you additional relief tips. 

Pregnancy can affect your feet in many ways, often causing pain or discomfort, as well as reduced mobility. If you are pregnant and experience foot pain, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

During pregnancy, your belly isn’t the only part of your body swelling. The whole body may experience swelling, especially in the feet and ankles. Since they carry the weight of both your body and the baby’s, caring for your feet during pregnancy is very important. 

Common Foot Conditions During Pregnancy

Various foot conditions can develop during the course of a pregnancy, including: 

• Swelling of the feet and ankles

• Fallen arches, leading to acquired flat feet

• Plantar fasciitis 

• Aching, sore feet

• Changes in the toenails

Caring for the Feet During Pregnancy

Some things that you can do to help maintain the health of your feet during pregnancy include: 

• Wearing comfortable shoes

• Resting and elevating your feet

• Icing sore areas, such as the arch

• Keeping your toenails trimmed

• Soaking and massaging the feet

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

Working in cold weather poses unique challenges, especially when it comes to safeguarding the health of our feet. Cold temperatures can lead to decreased blood flow, making our extremities more susceptible to frostbite and other cold-related injuries. To protect your feet in frigid conditions, it is imperative to invest in quality insulated footwear that shields against the cold weather while providing adequate ventilation to prevent moisture buildup. Layering socks is another effective strategy, ensuring proper insulation without compromising circulation. Be mindful of the fit, as tight footwear can restrict blood flow, exacerbating the risk of cold-induced ailments. Additionally, opting for moisture-wicking socks helps keep feet dry and reduces the likelihood of frostbite. Regular breaks to warm up, proper hydration, and staying vigilant for early signs of cold stress are critical elements in a comprehensive approach to foot protection in cold weather, ensuring both comfort and safety on the job. If you would like additional information about what specific types of shoes to buy for foot protection during the cold months, it is suggested that you visit a chiropodist.

If you stand all day, you may be at an increased risk of developing various foot conditions. If you are experiencing foot pain of any kind, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Foot Problems Are Caused by Standing?

Standing all day at work may increase your risk of developing foot or ankle problems.

Some common foot conditions that may arise from spending all day on your feet include: 

• Foot pain

• Blisters

• Corns and calluses

• Arthritis

• Flat feet

• Bunions

• Sprains 

• Athlete’s foot

Prevention

If you stand for prolonged periods of time for work, taking preventative measures to preserve the health of your feet is strongly recommended. 

Measures you can implement to help prevent foot problems include: 

• Wearing shoes that are comfortable and fit well - these shoes should be made of breathable materials and provide you with arch support and cushioning. It is best to avoid shoes that have heels or narrow toe boxes.

• Taking breaks to rest, walk, and stretch your feet throughout the day

• Maintaining good foot hygiene - wash and dry your feet thoroughly every day

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

Sever's disease is a common cause of heel pain in growing children and adolescents, particularly those who are physically active. It occurs when the growth plate at the back of the heel, known as the calcaneal apophysis, becomes inflamed. This inflammation is typically caused by repetitive stress or microtrauma due to athletic activities combined with the heel's growth spurt. Symptoms include pain at the back of the heel, which may worsen with activity, and relief with rest. This affliction is diagnosed primarily through clinical evaluation. A chiropodist will consider a child's history and symptoms and conduct a physical examination. During the exam, they may squeeze the sides of the heel, which typically produces pain in a child with Sever's disease. While X-rays are not used to diagnose the condition itself, they may be ordered to rule out other causes of heel pain, such as fractures. If your child complains of heel pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a chiropodist for a proper diagnosis and treatment options.

Sever’s disease typically affects young children and teenagers. If your child complains of foot pain, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Is Sever’s Disease? 

Sever’s disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is an inflammation of the growth plate in the heel bone. It is typically caused by overuse due to repetitive activities such as running, jumping, and playing certain sports. This condition most frequently affects children between the ages of 8 and 14. 

Symptoms

Symptoms of Sever’s disease include: 

• Pain in the back or bottom of the heel

• Pain when the sides of the heel are squeezed

• Limping or walking on tiptoes to avoid putting pressure on the heel

• Difficulty running, jumping, or participating in usual activities

• Fatigue 

Diagnosis

Sever’s disease is diagnosed by taking a thorough medical history and performing a physical examination. Imaging studies, such as an X-ray, can help rule out other injuries like a fracture. 

Treatment

Sever’s disease typically heals without any long-term complications. Treatment involves resting the affected foot by reducing typical activities, wearing orthotics to support the foot, immobilizing the affected foot, taking medications to reduce pain and inflammation, and stretching the foot. 

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