A heel spur is a calcium deposit that forms under the heel bone, often linked to ongoing strain on the foot. Although the spur itself may not always cause pain, the surrounding tissue can become irritated. Recovery focuses on reducing pressure and inflammation. Wearing supportive shoes with good arch structure, cushioned insoles, and soft heel pads can make a big difference. Stretching the calf and foot regularly helps ease tension along the bottom of the foot. Avoiding high-impact activities allows the area to calm down. In some cases, custom orthotics or targeted exercises may be helpful. While quick relief is possible with the right care, complete healing may still take time. If your heel pain does not improve or becomes more intense, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan.

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 David Reynolds, DPM from First Podiatry. 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 Evansville, IN . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Type 1 diabetes can affect many parts of the body, including the feet. High blood sugar levels over time may damage nerves and reduce circulation, making it harder to feel or notice small injuries. Even minor pressure from a poorly trimmed toenail can lead to inflammation or an ingrown nail, especially if shoes are tight or put stress on the toes. People with diabetes are also more prone to infections, and what starts as a simple nail problem can become more serious if left untreated. Thickened or brittle nails, often seen in diabetic patients, may be harder to trim properly, increasing the chance of the nail growing into the skin. Proper nail care and early attention to changes in the feet are essential for avoiding complications. If you notice redness, swelling, or pain surrounding a toenail, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact David Reynolds, DPM from First Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Plantar warts are small, rough growths that develop on the soles of the feet due to the human papillomavirus. They often appear as hard, grainy lesions with tiny black dots in the center and may cause pain while walking or standing. These warts can be mistaken for calluses but are often more tender and grow inward due to pressure from standing. They are commonly spread in moist environments like locker rooms or public showers. Individuals with weakened immune systems or those who walk barefoot are at higher risk. A podiatrist can diagnose plantar warts and offer treatments such as topical therapy, cryotherapy, or removal. If you have developed a plantar wart, it is suggested that you seek professional care from a podiatrist to ensure an accurate diagnosis and effective relief from discomfort.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact David Reynolds, DPM from First Podiatry. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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

Cracked heels occur when the skin on the bottom of the feet becomes excessively dry and thick, leading to painful splits or fissures. Dry skin can be caused by prolonged standing, wearing open-back footwear, cold weather, or lack of moisture. Over time, the dryness may worsen and the skin loses elasticity, eventually leading to deep cracks that can cause discomfort, bleeding, or infection. Symptoms include rough patches, flaking, redness, and pain while walking. A podiatrist can assess the severity, remove thickened skin safely, recommend moisturizing treatments, and address any complications. If you are experiencing discomfort from having cracked heels, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist to restore smooth, healthy skin, and prevent further damage.

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 David Reynolds, DPM from First 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 our office located in Evansville, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Wearing the right shoes is essential for safe and effective fitness. Ill-fitting shoes can lead to discomfort, blisters, or even injury. When selecting workout shoes, it is best to shop later in the day when your feet are slightly swollen, mimicking their size during exercise. Ensure the shoe fits both the width and length of your foot, providing enough room for toes to move comfortably. The right shoe should support your arch and cushion impact based on your activity. A podiatrist can evaluate your foot type, recommend suitable footwear, and address any underlying issues. If you have foot pain during or after your workout, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and offer you personalized guidance regarding the proper shoes to wear.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of David Reynolds, DPM from First Podiatry. Our doctor will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

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