Items filtered by date: October 2023

A heel spur is a common foot condition that is often discussed in the context of heel pain and discomfort. Despite their reputation, they are not actually sharp, pointy growths, as the term may imply. Instead, heel spurs are calcium deposits that form on the underside of the heel bone. These deposits often develop over an extended period of time due to chronic inflammation or stress on the plantar fascia, the band of tissue that connects the heel to the toes. The primary characteristic of heel spurs is the accompanying pain. This discomfort is often described as a sharp, stabbing sensation, particularly with the first steps in the morning or after prolonged periods of rest. It is important to note that not everyone with heel spurs experiences pain, as many people have them without any symptoms. The causes of heel spurs are diverse, with factors such as obesity, gait abnormalities, or wearing inadequate footwear contributing significantly. Heel spurs are a condition that is often linked to heel pain, but they are generally not the sole cause. If you are experiencing persistent heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist, who can accurately diagnose and treat heel spurs if they are the culprit.

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 Dr. John R. Northrup from Superior Foot, Ankle & Wound Care. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in St. Augustine, and Palm Coast, FL . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Foot stress fractures, though they can happen to anyone, often have identifiable causes and risk factors. One of the leading causes of stress fractures is a sudden increase in activity. This increase can encompass frequency, duration, or intensity. It is particularly common among athletes pushing their boundaries, like marathon runners who ramp up their mileage too quickly. Changing the surface upon which you exercise is another factor to consider. Transitioning from a soft, forgiving surface like an indoor track or turf to a harsh, unforgiving one like a concrete sidewalk can place undue stress on the bones of your feet. Improper technique is a hidden enemy, as it can stem from other foot conditions, like blisters or bunions. When people adjust their gait to avoid pain or discomfort, they may inadvertently place extra stress on certain bones in the foot. Footwear matters more than you might think. Ill-fitting, flimsy, stiff, or worn-out shoes can contribute significantly to the development of stress fractures. It's not just athletes who need to be aware because even non-athletes can experience these injuries after walking extensively on uneven terrain, common during vacations. For more information on dealing with foot stress fractures, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. 

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Dr. John R. Northrup from Superior Foot, Ankle & Wound Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

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.

Foot blisters are a common issue, particularly among athletes and active individuals. These fluid-filled sacs typically form due to friction and pressure, often caused by ill-fitting shoes or repetitive movements. Moisture and heat can exacerbate the problem, making the feet more susceptible to blisters. When it comes to treatment, the first step is to keep the area clean to prevent infection. Refrain from popping the blister, as the fluid acts as a natural barrier that promotes healing. Cover the blister with a sterile bandage or moleskin to reduce friction. If the blister does burst, clean it gently with soap and water, apply an antibiotic ointment, and cover it. Wearing well-fitting, moisture-wicking socks and properly-sized shoes can help prevent future blisters. Using blister pads or bandages on areas prone to friction can also reduce the risk. Ultimately, taking steps to minimize friction and maintaining good foot hygiene can go a long way in preventing and treating foot blisters effectively. If you have discomfort from foot blisters, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for care.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. John R. Northrup of Superior Foot, Ankle & Wound Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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.

Ballet, especially when practicing the pointe technique, can lead to foot pain, injuries, and potential long-term damage. Pointe shoes, made with dense materials, support a dancer's body weight on fully extended feet, making it a challenging form of dance for the feet. Common foot injuries among ballet dancers include blisters, ingrown toenails, and sprained ankles. Bunions and stress fractures may also affect ballet dancers. These injuries can result from intense training and repetitive movements. Dancers typically transition to pointe shoes between ages 11 and 13, after their foot bones have ossified or hardened. Male ballet dancers, who do more lifting and jumping, are also susceptible to foot issues, such as Achilles tendonitis and sprained ankles. Continuing to dance with untreated foot injuries can lead to permanent damage, especially for professional dancers who spend extended periods on pointe. Some injuries, if left untreated, may require surgical intervention. Treatment for dance-related foot injuries varies depending on the cause and severity. If you are a dancer or your child is starting to dance, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to understand how to take care of the feet best to prevent long-term consequences of participating in this activity.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Dr. John R. Northrup from Superior Foot, Ankle & Wound Care. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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.

Running is a fantastic way to stay active and maintain a healthy lifestyle, but it is not without its risks. One common concern for runners, especially as they age, is the risk of falling. Falls can lead to painful injuries, making it essential to take precautions to stay upright and injury-free during your runs. To start, ensure that your running shoes fit properly and provide adequate support. Pay attention to the running surface by opting for well-maintained trails or sidewalks and being cautious on uneven or slippery terrain. Watch out for obstacles such as rocks, tree roots, or cracks in the pavement. Incorporate core strengthening exercises into your cross training routine to help with balance and stability, and to further reduce the risk of falls. Additionally, when running in low light conditions, wear reflective gear and use a headlamp or flashlight to improve visibility. Lastly, listen to your body to avoid overexertion or fatigue, which can lead to poor form and an increased risk of falling. If you have concerns about your foot health related to running, or need more guidance on fall prevention, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Dr. John R. Northrup from Superior Foot, Ankle & Wound Care. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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.