Items filtered by date: October 2023

A heel spur is a common foot condition that is often discussed in the context of heel pain and discomfort. Despite their reputation, they are not actually sharp, pointy growths, as the term may imply. Instead, heel spurs are calcium deposits that form on the underside of the heel bone. These deposits often develop over an extended period of time due to chronic inflammation or stress on the plantar fascia, the band of tissue that connects the heel to the toes. The primary characteristic of heel spurs is the accompanying pain. This discomfort is often described as a sharp, stabbing sensation, particularly with the first steps in the morning or after prolonged periods of rest. It is important to note that not everyone with heel spurs experiences pain, as many people have them without any symptoms. The causes of heel spurs are diverse, with factors such as obesity, gait abnormalities, or wearing inadequate footwear contributing significantly. Heel spurs are a condition that is often linked to heel pain, but they are generally not the sole cause. If you are experiencing persistent heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist, who can accurately diagnose and treat heel spurs if they are the culprit.

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 Front Range Podiatry. 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 Littleton, CO . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Flat feet, medically known as pes planus, is a common condition where the arch of the foot is abnormally low or nonexistent, causing the entire sole to touch the ground when standing. This can be due to various factors, such as genetics, obesity, pregnancy, or repetitive high-impact activities. While some people with flat feet experience no discomfort, others may develop symptoms that affect their daily lives. Flat feet can originate in childhood, where the arch has not yet developed, and may persist into adulthood. Over time, the wear and tear on the posterior tibial tendon can lead to the arch collapsing, resulting in overpronation. Ankles and knees can also be affected, as flat feet may cause the ankles to turn inward, leading to alignment issues in the legs. Symptoms can range from difficulty standing on tiptoe to knee and back pain, arch strain, and swelling along the inside of the ankle. When it comes to treatment, a range of options can help alleviate the discomfort associated with flat feet. Special shoes with strong heel counters, steel or carbon fiber shanks, and medial postings can assist in alignment. Custom-designed arch supports, molded to your foot's unique contours, are often recommended. Stretching exercises for a shortened Achilles tendon may also prove beneficial. For help in dealing with flat feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to determine the best course of action for your specific needs.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Front Range Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

Managing diabetic foot wounds is important for individuals with diabetes, as they are susceptible to slow healing wounds that can escalate into severe complications. First, meticulous wound care is essential. This can begin with cleaning the wound daily with mild soap and warm water, followed by applying an antibiotic ointment and covering with a sterile dressing. Offloading pressure from the affected foot is suggested, as this can be achieved with special footwear, custom orthotics, or using assistive devices, such as crutches. Regular monitoring for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge, is vital. Keeping blood sugar levels under control is fundamental, as high blood sugar can impede the healing process. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage any foot wounds that may develop.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Front Range Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Ankle arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that can greatly improve the quality of life for anyone with ankle pain and discomfort. This procedure involves making small cuts around the ankle and looking inside the incisions with an arthroscope to identify and correct issues. Recovery time can vary from person to person, but generally, patients can expect a few weeks to a couple of months for a full recovery. The first week or two may involve some discomfort and limited mobility. Most patients can resume driving within a few weeks after surgery, but it's important to consult with your podiatrist beforehand. Returning to work and sports activities may take longer, often between four to eight weeks or more, depending on the nature of your job or the intensity of your sport.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Front Range Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

A foot ulcer is defined as any break in the skin. It is the most common type of diabetic foot wound and can lead to loss of functioning and severe complications. These foot wounds often result from factors such as poor blood sugar control, diabetic peripheral neuropathy, and abnormal foot mechanics due to deformities. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy, a side effect of diabetes, can also lead to a loss of protective sensation in the feet, making early injury detection challenging. The assessment of the diabetic foot involves a comprehensive foot and body examination. This can consist of assessing risk factors, undergoing a dermatologic and musculoskeletal evaluation, and having neurologic tests that can determine the degree of sensation. Treatment of diabetic foot ulcers includes debridement, wound culturing, and wound dressings. Additionally, it is important to monitor glycemic control and infection control. Their prevention and management are essential to improve the patient’s quality of life. If you have diabetes and have developed a foot wound or any other foot condition, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can evaluate your situation, and receive the appropriate treatment.

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 Front Range Podiatry. 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 Littleton, CO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.