March 2023

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 Preferred Footcare, LLC. 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 our office located in Stamford, CT . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Foot wounds can be a serious health issue. A small cut on the skin for many people can be overlooked, but patients who are diabetic understand the need to check their feet daily for existing wounds. Diabetes is a condition that is caused by elevated blood sugar levels in the blood which may lead to neuropathy. This is defined as the inability to feel sensation in parts of the body, particularly the feet. Many diabetic patients find it helpful to check their feet by using a mirror, or possibly a family member or caregiver may be able to help. Foot wounds require immediate care, and this begins with cleaning the wound, followed by applying an appropriate dressing. It is beneficial to refrain from walking barefoot or to avoid it entirely until the healing process is completed. If you would like additional information about how to care for foot wounds, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who is an expert in foot care.

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 Preferred Footcare, LLC. 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 our office located in Stamford, CT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The body naturally processes uric acid through the kidneys. Excess uric acid may form crystals and can cause debilitating pain in the joints of the big toe. This is known as gout, and it is a type of arthritis. There are specific kinds of foods that have large amounts of purines, which convert to uric acid. These can include shellfish, red meat, alcohol, and drinks that are made with sugar. If you suffer from frequent gout attacks, it is beneficial to limit these types of foods and drinks. Common symptoms that are associated with gout can include pain, swelling, and redness surrounding the big toe joints. Additionally, it can be difficult to bear weight on the affected foot. There may be other factors that can cause gout to develop. These can consist of obesity, family history, or it may happen to women who are postmenopausal. If you have gout, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage and treat this condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Preferred Footcare, LLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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

A broken ankle is a common injury. There are various reasons why this can occur, including enduring a fall, having excessive pressure placed on the ankle, or from ligament damage. The tibia, fibula, and talus are the common areas of the ankle that can become fractured. If the ankle is suddenly twisted, or a heavy object falls on it, these may be additional reasons why ankle bones can break. Symptoms that are associated with this condition often include immediate pain, and there may be extensive swelling. Many patients are unable to walk with a broken ankle, and an X-ray can be taken to determine its severity. Recovery time can take a few weeks or even months, and patients may have a walking boot or cast on their foot during the healing process. This is helpful in stabilizing the foot, and it can provide ease in completing daily activities. If you have broken your ankle, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can properly diagnose and choose the correct treatment method for you.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Preferred Footcare, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
•  Swelling around the area
•  Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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