A heel spur is defined as a bony growth surrounding the ligaments of the foot near the heel bone. It may develop as a result of existing medical conditions that can include poor circulation and various forms of arthritis. Some of the symptoms that are associated with heel spurs can include continuous foot pain, and it may be difficult to walk. It may become worse after arising in the morning, or if excessive strain has been placed on the heel in previous days. Mild relief may be found when the affected foot is elevated, and it may help to place a protective pad in the heel of the shoe. If you are experiencing heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly diagnose heel spurs, and offer you correct treatment techniques.

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 Afsha Naimat-Shahzad, DPM from Leander Foot & Ankle. 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, please feel free to contact our office located in Leander, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cracked heels are a common foot problem that occurs when the skin surrounding the heel becomes dry, hard, and thickened, often due to pressure, lack of moisture, or prolonged standing. Symptoms include rough patches of skin on the heel edge that may split and cause pain. In severe cases, the cracks can deepen and become infected, sometimes leading to cellulitis, which requires medical attention. A podiatrist can help by safely removing thickened skin, providing moisturization plans, recommending footwear to reduce pressure, and addressing any underlying conditions. If cracked heels are left untreated they may worsen over time. If you have developed cracked heels, it is suggested that you promptly contact a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition, which may include prescribed medication.

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 Afsha Naimat-Shahzad, DPM from Leander Foot & Ankle. 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 Leander, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Swollen feet, also known as edema, occur when excess fluid builds up in the tissues of the feet and ankles. This often happens after long periods of standing or sitting, especially in warm weather, when gravity causes fluid to pool in the lower extremities. Wearing shoes that lack adequate support, such as flip-flops, may also contribute to swelling by failing to help the foot muscles and veins return fluid upward. Age can increase the risk because weakened veins have more difficulty moving blood against gravity. Other possible causes of swollen feet and ankles include high salt intake, pregnancy-related changes, or certain health conditions that affect circulation. Swelling may cause the skin on the feet and ankles to appear stretched and shiny, and, in some cases, pressing on the area may leave a noticeable indentation. A podiatrist can evaluate the underlying cause, provide treatment options, and recommend whether additional care is needed. If you are experiencing swelling in your feet and ankles, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnose and appropriate treatment.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Afsha Naimat-Shahzad, DPM of Leander Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

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

Yoga is an effective way to build strength and stability in the feet while improving overall balance. Certain poses engage the small muscles of the feet and ankles, helping to support proper alignment and reduce the risk of injury. Regular practice can increase flexibility, enhance circulation, and relieve tension that often builds up from daily activities or improper footwear. Stronger feet contribute to better posture and movement, which benefits the entire body. A podiatrist can assess foot function, address pain, and recommend specific exercises or treatments to complement yoga practice. If you have any type of foot pain, or want to improve foot health and stability, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Afsha Naimat-Shahzad, DPM from Leander Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

• Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
• Similar to the previous one, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
• Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
• Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising and ice and rest the foot. It is advised to then see a podiatrist for help.

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