March 2023

Heel pain can be an annoyance for a variety of patients for many different reasons. For example, heel pain may be linked to a condition known as plantar fasciitis. Alternatively, heel pain could be caused by an individual’s obesity and the extent to which their excess weight is putting added pressure on the feet. However, heel pain might also be a side effect of certain cancer treatments. Sometimes, when an individual with cancer receives treatment, heel pain can result. The reason for this is that some treatments lead to a loss of bone density and even muscle wasting. As a result, conditions such as plantar fasciitis can become more likely and ultimately cause heel pain. If you are someone that is receiving cancer treatment and you have heel pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of North Bay Ankle & Foot Center. Our doctors 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 our offices located in Petaluma and Sonoma, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Many people work in jobs that have them standing, walking, and even running on their feet for long periods on surfaces that may be slippery. In such cases, having footwear with non-slip soles can help to prevent pain, injury, and falls. The Centers for Disease Control has found that trips, slips, and falls are the third most common type of non-fatal workplace injury. Experts say that a slip-resistant shoe can help to reduce the chances of injury on the job. These shoes should have rubber soles and deep treads that improve the grip on the floor. Rubber offers more friction between the shoe and the floor, which decreases the chances of a slip or fall. Grooves in the sole of the shoe offer further gripping protection. But not all grooves are created equal. A pattern with grooves that are parallel can be less effective than one with a crisscross pattern. To find out more about the proper footwear for your job, it is suggested that you meet with a podiatrist. 

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from North Bay Ankle & Foot Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

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

Many people do not take proper care of their feet during the colder months and a condition known as cracked heels may develop. The leading cause of cracked heels during the colder months is due to dry skin. Cracked heels can also arise from standing on hard surfaces for most of the day as well as wearing shoes with an open back. The aging process may also affect cracked heels because of the loss of skin elasticity. Existing medical conditions like eczema, psoriasis, athlete’s foot, and diabetes may lead to cracked heels. Deep cracks are called fissures and they may bleed and become infected. Additionally, people who are overweight may be prone to developing cracked heels, which adds extra pressure to the heels. If you suffer from cracked heels, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can prescribe medication for complete relief.

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 one of our podiatrists from North Bay Ankle & Foot Center. Our doctors 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 our offices located in Petaluma and Sonoma, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel pain is a common symptom with Sever’s disease. It is a condition that affects children and young teenagers who engage in running and jumping activities, and it can be quite painful. Additionally, wearing shoes with studs may increase the chances of developing Sever’s disease. A growth spurt can cause the bones to grow faster than the surrounding muscles and tendons, and the Achilles tendon is often affected. This tendon connects the heel to the calf muscles and can become sore with existing heel pain. This condition can be properly diagnosed when symptoms and performance levels are noticed, and treatment can begin with temporarily stopping the activity that caused the pain. This is typically followed by performing stretches that can strengthen the affected heel. Mild relief may be found when cushioned heel pads are worn and the leg is frequently elevated, possibly helping to reduce existing swelling. Limping and standing on tip toes may indicate your active child has Sever’s disease, and if applicable, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can offer relief and treatment techniques.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from North Bay Ankle & Foot Center. Our doctors 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 offices located in Petaluma and Sonoma, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.