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Stephan J. LaPointe, DPM, PhD, FACFAS
Tuesday, 23 April 2024 00:00

Calcaneal spurs, also known as heel spurs, are bony protrusions that form on the underside of the heel bone, which is the calcaneus. These spurs develop in response to long-term inflammation and tension on the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes. The repetitive stress and strain can lead to the formation of calcium deposits, resulting in the development of bony growth. Individuals with calcaneal spurs often experience symptoms such as sharp pain in the heel, particularly during weight-bearing activities like walking or standing. The pain may intensify with the first steps in the morning or after prolonged periods of rest. Additionally, tenderness and swelling around the affected area are common. While some people with calcaneal spurs may not experience any symptoms, others may find the pain debilitating, impacting their daily activities. If you have heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat heel spurs.

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 Dr. Stephan J. LaPointe from Georgia Foot & Ankle Specialists . 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 feel free to contact our office located in Rome, GA . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Read more about Heel Spurs
Tuesday, 16 April 2024 00:00

Corns, a common foot ailment, refer to thickened areas of skin that develop in response to pressure or friction. These small, round, or cone-shaped growths typically form on the toes or feet, causing discomfort and pain. The two primary types of corns are hard corns and soft corns. Hard corns, also known as heloma durum, form on dry, firm areas of skin, often on the tops or sides of toes. Soft corns, or heloma molle, develop between the toes where the skin is moist, appearing white and rubbery. Corns develop as a protective mechanism against repeated pressure or friction, commonly caused by wearing ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or excessive walking or running. Additionally, foot deformities like bunions or hammertoes can contribute to corn formation. Understanding the medical terminology associated with corns and their underlying causes is essential for effective treatment and prevention strategies. Corns on the feet can be painful. If you have developed this foot condition, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief techniques.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Stephan J. LaPointe of Georgia Foot & Ankle Specialists . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

  • Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
  • Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
  • Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

Read more about Corns: What Are They, and How Do You Get Rid of Them
Wednesday, 10 April 2024 00:00

Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!

Tuesday, 09 April 2024 00:00

Obesity, a prevalent health concern worldwide, exerts a profound influence on foot structure and function in adults. The increased body weight places excessive pressure on the feet, altering their biomechanics and leading to various structural changes. One notable effect is the flattening of the arches, known as pes planus or flat feet, due to the increased load-bearing capacity required to support the body. This condition can contribute to foot pain, fatigue, and discomfort while walking or standing for prolonged periods. Additionally, obesity may worsen existing foot conditions such as bunions, hammertoes, and plantar fasciitis, further compromising foot health and mobility. Furthermore, the accumulation of fat tissue in the feet can result in swelling, inflammation, and decreased flexibility. Addressing obesity through lifestyle modifications, including diet, exercise, and weight management, is essential for mitigating these structural changes and alleviating associated foot problems. If you are experiencing any type of foot pain due to excess weight, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

The more you weigh, the harder your feet must work to support your body. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact Dr. Stephan J. LaPointe from Georgia Foot & Ankle Specialists . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and Your Feet

People who are overweight are putting more pressure on their ankles, knees, and hips as well as their feet. This unfortunately can lead to variety of different issues.

Problems & Complications Stemming from Obesity

  • When the body is overweight, it tries to compensate by changing the way that it moves. An obese person may lean forward and put extra weight on the wrong part of the foot. This puts unnecessary stress on the feet.
  • Obese people are also more likely to develop type II diabetes which is a condition that causes a lot of foot problems. People with diabetes often don’t feel the cuts and sores that they may have on their feet, which can lead to more complicated and severe issues.
  • Plantar fasciitis is another foot condition that can be caused by obesity. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot, which causes pain and stiffness while walking and climbing stairs.

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

Read more about Obesity and the Feet
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