September 2021

Calcium deposits that form on your heel are known as heel spurs. These deposits typically develop in response to different kinds of trauma to the heel. Some examples include inflammation of the band of tissue on the sole of the foot (plantar fasciitis), chronic stress on ligaments and muscles surrounding the heel, or repeated tears of the heel bone membrane. Arthritis, high arches, obesity, acute heel injuries, improper footwear, flat feet, and gait disorders may also contribute to heel spurs arising. Symptoms may include heel pain, inflammation, and swelling, however, they are not always symptomatic or visible. Since heel spurs are often present and share symptoms with plantar fasciitis, they may go undetected until an imaging test is performed. Conservative treatments may include physical therapy, rest, and anti-inflammatory medicine. If these methods do not provide relief a surgical option may be appropriate. You can discuss your treatment options with a podiatrist after they have performed an examination and conducted tests to make an accurate diagnosis.

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 Frank Henry, DPM from Marble Falls, TX. 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 feel free to contact our office located in Marble Falls, TX . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is the result of the tibial nerve getting squeezed or compressed in the tarsal tunnel, which is a narrow pathway in the ankle that serves as an opening for nerves, veins, arteries and tendons to pass through. This nerve can be compressed from an injury, a cyst, or due to overpronation. Other issues, such as diabetes or arthritis, can also cause tarsal tunnel syndrome. Common signs of tarsal tunnel syndrome include a burning pain that radiates throughout the foot, a pins and needles sensation at the sole of the foot, and tenderness on the inside of the foot. Patients who believe that they have tarsal tunnel syndrome should consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment. Common treatment options include cold therapy, medication, rehabilitation exercises, and in severe cases, surgery.      

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Frank Henry, DPM of Marble Falls, TX. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

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

Overuse and repetitive motion is the cause of Sever’s disease. It is a condition that affects the heel of the foot in young children and teenagers, and typically occurs in active people of this age group. It happens as a result of the muscles, tendons, and ligaments pulling on the growth plate in the heel when overuse occurs. Common symptoms that are associated with this condition can consist of heel pain, and it is often worse upon arising in the morning. Effective treatments often begin with temporarily stopping the activity that caused the condition, followed by elevating the affected foot. If you notice your child is limping, please schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can properly treat Sever’s disease.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Frank Henry, DPM from Marble Falls, TX. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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

There are two layers of skin that are called the dermis and epidermis. The latter is the outermost layer, and is where cracked skin often develops. Heel fissures is the medical name for cracked heels, which can come from standing on hard surfaces for the majority of the day. Additionally, wearing shoes that do not fit correctly may cause this condition to occur, and this can include wearing shoes that have an open back. There are medical conditions that may lead to cracked heels, such as diabetes, psoriasis and eczema. Patients have found mild relief when the feet are washed and thoroughly dried, followed by applying a good moisturizer to them. If you have cracked heels, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can effectively treat this ailment, and advise you on proper foot care techniques.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Frank Henry, DPM from Marble Falls, TX. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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

Walking is a great low-impact way to lose weight, strengthen muscles, improve circulation, and more. However, it is important to use footwear designed specifically for the biomechanics of walking. Walking is done with a steady heel-to-toe stride, transferring body weight evenly from the heel to the toe. This motion begins with the heel striking the ground first, followed by a rolling motion through the heel to the toes, and then a pushing out of the stride with the toes. A good walking shoe will support and facilitate this motion in a few ways. Walking shoes should be flexible at the forefoot to allow the foot to flex during the heel-to-toe walking stride. A walking shoe should provide adequate cushioning, but not as much in the forefoot as a running shoe. This makes walking shoes lighter in weight, which help keep you comfortable. Regarding the heel, straight (or undercut) heels are best for walking shoes—as opposed to wider, higher, or flared heels in running shoes which may interfere with the walking stride. Before embarking on any fitness walking regimen, consult with a podiatrist for additional footwear/foot health advice—particularly if you have an existing medical condition.

For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with Frank Henry, DPM from Marble Falls, TX. Our doctor can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.

Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes

There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.

You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.

Differences

Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.

Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.

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