Sharp pain in the heels is often mistaken for plantar fasciitis, the most common complaint of heel pain. However, in some cases, the pain may be caused by a heel spur which is a buildup of calcium that forms a protrusion on the heel bone. A heel spur may take months to form and is often the result of too much pressure on muscles and ligaments. Runners and athletes who do a great deal of jumping may be at higher risk for heel spurs. Ironically, a heel spur may also be caused by plantar fasciitis, which makes it even more difficult to diagnose. An X-ray will show whether you have a heel spur. Treatment for a heel spur includes anti-inflammatory medication, cortisone injections, and custom orthotics. If your heel pain continues or worsens, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can confirm the diagnosis and offer appropriate treatment solutions.

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 Foot Health Center of Merrimack Valley. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in North Andover, and Tewksbury, MA . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Blisters are a natural method the body uses to heal areas of damaged skin. They form as a result of excess friction that is generally caused by shoes or socks that do not fit correctly. They are defined as a small formation that resembles a bubble and is filled with serum that protects the raw skin. Blisters are common among runners, as a result of the consistent rubbing of the shoe against the heels and toes. The beginning symptoms of a blister will generally be a reddened area, and the skin may tear. There may be medical reasons why blisters form. These can consist of eczema, psoriasis, or contact dermatitis. An allergic reaction to an insect bite may also cause a blister to form, in addition to first-degree burns. It is beneficial to avoid popping the blister prematurely. It will gradually drain when new skin has formed. If you are prone to getting blisters on your feet, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can help you with effective prevention methods.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot Health Center of Merrimack Valley. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in North Andover, and Tewksbury, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cracked heels are a relatively common condition of the foot in which the heels become so severely dehydrated that the skin can essentially crack or form fissures. Fortunately, many different cases of cracked heels are relatively harmless and merely look unsightly. Many newcomers to the field of podiatry often wonder whether cracked heels affect women and men in different ways. The answer is somewhat complicated. Even though about 20% of all adults in the United States have developed cracked heels, women are about 50% more likely than men to report to their medical professional that they have cracked heels. So, therefore, the answer is not straightforward. Just because women are more likely to report cracked heels does not mean that they experience it more than men do. If you are someone that struggles with cracked heels, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist for treatment or to answer any of your questions. 

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot Health Center of Merrimack Valley. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in North Andover, and Tewksbury, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Among the numerous causes of heel pain, plantar fasciitis is at the top of the list. This common complaint is the result of overuse that inflames the band of tissue that runs beneath the foot. Wearing shoes that offer ample support and proper cushioning is a good way of preventing plantar fasciitis. Adding low-impact sports, such as swimming, is also recommended to give the plantar fascia a rest between high-impact activities. Another type of heel pain caused by overuse is Achilles tendonitis. This occurs when the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel, becomes inflamed. In the most severe cases, the tendon can be ruptured, for which immediate medical attention is required. Noninsertional Achilles tendonitis involves small tears in the fibers of the middle part of the tendon. Insertional Achilles tendonitis affects the lower part of the tendon, where it attaches to the heel bone. Stretching the calf muscles and warming up before embarking on an exercise activity or sport can help to prevent this injury. If your heel pain is severe or is inhibiting your ability to carry out daily activities, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment. 

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot Health Center of Merrimack Valley. 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 one of our offices located in North Andover, and Tewksbury, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The feet, like almost all other parts of the human body, are susceptible to developing wounds. Wounds are the result of some kind of injury to the skin of the feet, and they come in many different types. Puncture wounds, for example, can develop on the feet when some kind of sharp object cuts through the skin on the feet. Everyone who wants to protect the health of their feet ought to be familiar with puncture wounds because it is possible for an individual to develop an infection. Infections can sometimes be a consequence of a puncture wound because, if it is left untreated, the object that caused the wound might have carried some damaging bacteria. If you have a puncture wound, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who can help you keep it clean and free from infection. 

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 Foot Health Center of Merrimack Valley. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in North Andover, and Tewksbury, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.