September 2025

Heel pain can occur in different areas, and identifying the exact location often helps determine the cause. Pain beneath the heel is frequently linked to plantar fasciitis, which occurs when the band of tissue running along the sole becomes strained and inflamed. Pain felt at the back of the heel may be related to Achilles tendonitis, where the tendon attaching the calf muscles to the heel becomes irritated. Discomfort on the sides of the heel may stem from bursitis, an inflammation of fluid-filled sacs that cushion the heel. In some cases, pain deep within the heel may point to a stress fracture, often caused by repetitive impact activities, like running. Risk factors include wearing shoes that lack adequate support, long hours of standing, high-impact exercise, and foot shapes such as flat feet or high arches. A podiatrist can determine the source of your heel pain and provide effective treatment. If you are experiencing heel pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Preferred Footcare, LLC. 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 feel free to contact our office located in Stamford, CT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Good foot hygiene is essential for preventing infections, maintaining comfort, and supporting overall health. Caring for your feet begins with washing and thoroughly drying them each day to reduce bacteria and fungus buildup. Toenails should be clipped straight across to prevent ingrown nails, while regular checks for cuts, blisters, or changes in skin and nails help detect problems early. Moisturizing can prevent dryness and cracking, keeping the skin soft and resilient. Proper foot hygiene is especially important for anyone with diabetes or circulation issues. A podiatrist can provide expert advice, treat problems before they worsen, and recommend preventive care. If you have foot pain for any reason, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and provide additional guidance on everyday foot care routines.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, 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.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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.

Fungal toenails, also referred to as ringworm of the nails or tinea pedis, often begin quietly, with a nail that looks a little dull or slightly yellow. Over time, the change becomes more obvious as the nail thickens, turns brittle, and sometimes gives off an unpleasant odor. The surface may appear rough or crumbly, and in advanced cases the nail can separate from the skin beneath it. These infections are stubborn because fungi thrive in warm, damp spaces such as inside shoes or socks worn for long hours. Age, reduced circulation, and frequent exposure to public showers or locker rooms can all increase risk. While many try home remedies, the condition rarely resolves without professional care. Ignoring it can lead to discomfort and difficulty wearing shoes. If you notice changes in your toenails that will not improve, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for treatment.

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Preferred Footcare, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

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

Athlete's foot, or tinea pedis, is a common fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, especially between the toes. It is caused by fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments, such as locker rooms, public showers, and sweaty shoes. Symptoms include itching, burning, peeling, or cracked skin, and blisters or an unpleasant odor may develop. The condition can spread to other parts of the body, or to others through direct contact or contaminated surfaces. It may feel uncomfortable and become painful if left untreated. A podiatrist can diagnose athlete's foot through a physical exam and possibly a skin scraping to confirm the presence of fungus. Treatment may include topical antifungal creams, oral medications for severe cases, and advice on hygiene and prevention. A podiatrist can also rule out other skin conditions with similar symptoms. If you are experiencing persistent foot irritation or skin changes, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnose and appropriate care.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Preferred Footcare, LLC.  Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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.

Orthotics are custom or prefabricated shoe inserts designed to support, align, and improve the function of the feet. They come in different types, including rigid orthotics for control, soft orthotics for cushioning, and semi-rigid devices that combine both benefits. People may need orthotics to relieve pain from conditions like plantar fasciitis, flat feet, bunions, or arthritis, as well as to improve posture and prevent injuries. A podiatrist can evaluate your gait, diagnose underlying issues, and recommend the right orthotic solution tailored to your needs. If you are experiencing foot or ankle discomfort, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if orthotics will benefit you and what type of orthotic is right for you.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, 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.

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