Items filtered by date: March 2023

A heel spur develops between the heel and arch of the foot. It is a calcium deposit that is often accompanied by severe heel pain. Heel spurs can appear to be pointy or hooked and can be up to a half-inch long. Heel pain often requires a visit to the podiatrist, who can effectively diagnose the cause. This can be done by having an X-ray, which can help rule out other foot conditions. Many people develop heel spurs from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. This can cause strain on the muscles and ligaments and can gradually wear out the soft tissues. Additional reasons why heel spurs can develop may include being overweight and frequently participating in running and jumping activities. Resting the affected foot may provide temporary relief, and it may help to wear shoes that have a cushioned heel. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can offer you options for permanent relief.

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 one of our podiatrists from Prince William Foot & Ankle Center, PC. Our practitioners 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 offices located in Gainesville and Dulles, VA . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Foot wounds can be a serious health issue. A small cut on the skin for many people can be overlooked, but patients who are diabetic understand the need to check their feet daily for existing wounds. Diabetes is a condition that is caused by elevated blood sugar levels in the blood which may lead to neuropathy. This is defined as the inability to feel sensation in parts of the body, particularly the feet. Many diabetic patients find it helpful to check their feet by using a mirror, or possibly a family member or caregiver may be able to help. Foot wounds require immediate care, and this begins with cleaning the wound, followed by applying an appropriate dressing. It is beneficial to refrain from walking barefoot or to avoid it entirely until the healing process is completed. If you would like additional information about how to care for foot wounds, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who is an expert in foot care.

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 one of our podiatrists from Prince William Foot & Ankle Center, PC. Our practitioners 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 offices located in Gainesville and Dulles, VA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

One of several common toe deformities is mallet toe. Common causes of mallet toe include the imbalance of muscle and bones, where the toe bones are too short and the muscles too weak. This imbalance forces the tip of the toe to curl under. Mallet toe commonly affects any of the three middle toes of the foot. It can also be caused by an injury, arthritis, and improperly fitting footwear. People who wear high heels with narrow toe boxes are more at risk for developing mallet toe. Other factors include genetic makeup and toe length. If the 2nd and 3rd toes are longer than the big toe, mallet toe may result. In some cases mallet toe problems can be eased simply by changing the type of shoe you wear, but in more severe cases, surgery to release the tendon and straighten the toe is an option. Recovery time for this type of surgery can take up to two months. If a mallet toe is giving you problems, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an examination and a treatment plan.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Prince William Foot & Ankle Center, PC. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Gainesville and Dulles, VA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.