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Heel pain can be debilitating, and one common cause is bursitis. This condition occurs when the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that cushions and lubricates the joints, becomes inflamed. In the case of heel bursitis, the bursa located at the back of the heel becomes irritated and swollen. The bursa is typically aggravated by activities that put pressure on the affected area, such as walking or wearing tight shoes. Inflammation can also be caused by repetitive overuse or direct trauma to the heel. Diagnosis usually involves a physical examination, and sometimes imaging tests like X-rays or ultrasound are used to rule out other conditions. In some cases, a podiatrist may recommend corticosteroid injections to alleviate pain and inflammation. If heel pain persists or disrupts daily activities, it is suggested you make an appointment with a podiatrist. This foot doctor can offer specialized treatment and personalized advice for effective pain management and recovery.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff of Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor 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 office located in Lake Worth, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Toe injuries are common among runners, often caused by the repetitive impact and friction involved in the sport. Runner’s toe, or toenail trauma, typically results from the toenail repeatedly hitting the inside of the shoe, causing pain and potential bruising. Bruised toenails occur when blood collects under the nail due to direct impact or pressure, leading to dark discoloration. Black toenails, a more severe form of bruising, may be indicative of more significant trauma and can sometimes lead to the toenail falling off. To prevent these issues, ensure that running shoes fit properly with adequate room for toe movement and cushioning to absorb shock. Regularly trimming toenails and wearing moisture-wicking socks can also reduce the risk of injury. If you are experiencing toe pain from a running injury, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist for treatment. 

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff of Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor 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 office located in Lake Worth, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel pain, results from inflammation of the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes. This condition often causes stabbing pain, especially in the morning. Standard treatments include rest, targeted exercises, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Custom-made orthotics, however, provide an extremely effective solution by offering tailored support and cushioning. Unlike over-the-counter inserts, these orthotics are specifically designed to fit the unique contours of an individual's feet, alleviating pressure on the plantar fascia. By distributing weight more evenly and correcting abnormal foot mechanics, custom orthotics can significantly reduce pain and inflammation. In some cases, they are as effective as corticosteroid injections in reducing thickness and swelling, providing long-term relief and preventing recurrence. If you have persistent discomfort from plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss whether custom-made orthotics can help you.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff from Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Lake Worth, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.