Heel pain occurs when the tissues surrounding the heel become irritated or inflamed. It often appears as a sharp or aching sensation when walking or standing, and may worsen after periods of rest. Several risk factors increase the likelihood of heel pain, including middle age, physically active lifestyles, excess body weight, pregnancy, and occupations that require standing for long periods of time. Wearing poorly fitted shoes with limited cushioning or support can also place stress on the heel. Direct injury or repeated strain to the heel area may further contribute to discomfort. A podiatrist can evaluate the cause, recommend supportive footwear, and provide treatments that relieve pain. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Nashville Family Foot Care. Our practitioners 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 Nashville, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cracked heels are common in cooler weather because cold air and indoor heating dry out the skin. The skin on the bottom of the heel is naturally thick to handle body weight and pressure. When it becomes too dry, it loses flexibility and can split. These splits, often called fissures, are deep cracks that may cause pain, bleeding, or infection. Standing for long periods, wearing open-backed shoes, and taking long, hot showers can make the problem worse. People with diabetes or poor circulation may have a harder time healing and can face more serious complications. A podiatrist can examine the heels, safely trim thick, hardened skin, and provide professional treatment that helps restore moisture and protect the skin. Early medical care can reduce pain and prevent infection. If you have cracked heels that cause pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and safe treatment.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Nashville Family Foot Care. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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

An ankle fracture occurs when one or more of the bones that form the joint break, usually after a sudden twist, fall, or direct impact. The lower ends of the tibia and fibula leg bones create the bony bumps on each side of the ankle, while the talus sits between them and allows smooth motion. Any of these structures can crack or separate during sports, slips, vehicle accidents, or other high-force injuries. Typical signs of a broken ankle include immediate pain, swelling, bruising, difficulty moving the joint, and trouble bearing weight, although some people can still stand despite a fracture. Deformity or visible bone indicates a severe injury that requires urgent care. A podiatrist evaluates the mechanism severity of the fracture, checks circulation and nerve function, and confirms the diagnosis with X-rays or other imaging tests. If you have symptoms of a broken ankle, it is suggested that you make an emergency appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

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A broken foot moves through several healing stages, each with its own timeline and purpose. The first stage begins immediately after the injury, when the body forms a protective clot and swelling develops around the broken bone. Over the next few weeks, soft tissue starts to repair and a temporary bridge of healing cells begins to form. As time passes, this early repair gradually hardens into stronger bone, allowing the foot to tolerate more movement and light pressure. Most uncomplicated fractures take anywhere from 6 to 8 weeks to heal, although some bones need more time depending on their location, severity, and blood supply. Even after the bone has healed, the foot may feel stiff or weak until strength and flexibility return. A podiatrist can guide each stage with imaging, protective footwear, and activity recommendations. If your recovery feels slower than expected, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for guidance on effective healing tips.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Nashville Family Foot Care. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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