Items filtered by date: March 2020

Heel pain is a common ailment among patients who enjoy running, and may also occur as a result of standing for the majority of the day. A common reason why heel pain can happen may be a result of a condition known as plantar fasciitis. This is a condition that affects the plantar fascia, which is located on the bottom of the foot, and connects the toes to the heels. Stress fractures may affect the heel, and generally come from repetitive motions that can include running and jumping activities. The Achilles tendon is located on the bottom of the calf, and links the heel to the calf muscles. Inflammation of this tendon is known as Achilles tendonitis, and can cause severe pain and discomfort. If you are experiencing heel pain for any reason, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible so the correct treatment can begin.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Dr. John R. Northrup of Superior Podiatry. 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 one of our offices located in St. Augustine and Palm Coast, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Common symptoms of toenail fungus include yellowed and thickened nails. In severe cases, the nail may crack and lift off of the nail bed, which can appear unsightly. It is caused by a fungus that lives and thrives in warm and moist environments, and is often found in public swimming pools, locker rooms, and surrounding areas. There may be existing medical conditions that can also contribute to the onset of toenail fungus. These can include diabetes, a weakened immune system, or from a previous toe injury. There are steps that can be taken which may help to prevent toenail fungus from developing. These can consist of trimming the toenails correctly and keeping them clean, in addition to washing and drying the feet thoroughly. If you have been afflicted with toenail fungus, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can offer the best treatment techniques for you.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. John R. Northrup of Superior Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in St. Augustine and Palm Coast, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Toenail Fungus

The condition that is known as cracked heels can cause severe pain and discomfort. It can develop as a result of having excessively dry skin, or from standing for extended periods of time throughout the day. Additionally, many patients can develop this ailment from wearing open back shoes. There can also be medical reasons as to why cracked heels may form, including athlete’s foot, psoriasis, or eczema. Moderate relief may be found when the feet are soaked in warm water, followed by frequently applying a good moisturizer. This may help the skin of the feet to become supple and soft. If you have developed cracked heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can recommend correct treatment techniques.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. John R. Northrup from Superior Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in St. Augustine and Palm Coast, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Solutions for Cracked Heels

Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.

One of the most important things elderly people can do is to properly care for their feet. Many seniors can experience uncomfortable foot conditions as a result of a loss of cushioning as the aging process occurs. Research has indicated that one of the most favorable things seniors can do for their feet is wear shoes that fit correctly. The feet will feel better when there is adequate room for the toes to move freely in, and this may be helpful in preventing corns and bunions from developing. Additionally, washing and drying the feet daily followed by using a good moisturizer may be beneficial in preventing cracked heels. If you would like additional information about how elderly patients can care for their feet, please consult with a podiatrist. 

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. John R. Northrup from Superior Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in St. Augustine and Palm Coast, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Taking Care of Elderly Feet