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Heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the underside or back of the heel bone. They form after long-term stress, where muscles, tendons, or ligaments attach to the bone. A ligament is a strong band of tissue that connects one bone to another. Many heel spurs develop along with plantar fasciitis, which is irritation of the thick band of tissue that supports the arch of the foot. Some people have heel spurs without pain, while others feel sharp discomfort when standing or walking. Pain is frequently worse after getting out of bed or after sitting for a long period of time. Shoes that lack proper support, repeated strain, and excess body weight can increase the risk of developing a heel spur.

A podiatrist can determine whether a heel spur is causing your symptoms or whether another foot problem is responsible. The examination includes checking the location of the pain, your foot structure, and the way you walk. X-rays can show the presence of a heel spur and help rule out other conditions. Although the spur is easy to see on an X-ray, the surrounding soft tissue is frequently the source of the pain. Identifying the exact cause is important because treatment should focus on relieving the irritated tissue as well as reducing stress on the heel.

Treatment depends on the severity of the pain and the underlying condition. A podiatrist can recommend custom orthotics, supportive padding, or shoes that provide proper support to reduce pressure on the heel. Additional treatment includes anti-inflammatory medication, or corticosteroid injections to reduce pain and irritation. For patients with long-lasting symptoms that do not improve with other treatments, surgery can remove the heel spur or release the tight tissue causing the pain. Early evaluation helps prevent worsening discomfort and supports better movement. If you have symptoms of heel spurs, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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 the podiatrists from Bigfoot Podiatry. 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, please feel free to contact our office located in Provo, UT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetes can affect much more than blood sugar levels. It can also increase the risk of falls, especially in older adults. One reason is that diabetes can damage nerves in the feet, a condition called neuropathy. Neuropathy can reduce feeling in the feet and make it harder to notice the ground beneath you. This loss of sensation can affect balance and stability. Diabetes can also cause foot pain, muscle weakness, and changes in the way a person walks. These problems make it more difficult to move safely while walking and increase the chance of losing balance. Research has shown that people with diabetes experience falls more frequently than those without the condition.

Falls can lead to serious injuries. Broken bones, foot injuries, and ankle injuries can affect mobility and independence. People with diabetes also face challenges related to circulation and nerve function, which can make recovery from injuries more difficult. Some diabetics use special off-loading footwear to reduce pressure on certain areas of the feet. Off-loading means taking pressure away from an injured area to protect it. While these devices can be important for foot health, they can sometimes affect balance and walking patterns. Certain diabetes medications can also contribute to dizziness or unsteadiness, increasing fall risk.

A podiatrist plays an important role in helping reduce fall risk in diabetics. This type of doctor can evaluate foot structure, balance, and walking patterns. They can identify areas of weakness and detect nerve-related foot problems. They can also assess footwear and recommend options that improve stability. Regular foot examinations can help detect changes before they become serious problems. Early diagnosis and professional care can help patients remain active and move with greater confidence. If you have diabetes, have fallen, or feel you may be at risk of falling, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with the podiatrists from Bigfoot Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

Fungal infections of the feet are caused by different types of fungi that affect the skin or toenails. One of the most common infections is athlete’s foot, which affects the skin between the toes, on the soles, or along the sides of the feet. This infection can spread in warm, damp places like locker rooms and public pools. Symptoms include itching, peeling skin, and cracking. Another common fungal infection affects the toenails. The nails can become thick, brittle, and discolored. Some people also notice debris collecting under the nail. Fungal infections can be stubborn and tend to worsen when they are not treated properly.

Different types of fungi are responsible for these infections. Dermatophytes are fungi that feed on keratin, a protein found in skin and nails. These fungi are the leading cause of athlete’s foot and many toenail infections. Molds are another type of fungus that can infect the toenails, especially when a nail has been damaged. Yeasts, including a type called Candida, can also cause infections of the skin and nails. Candida normally lives on the skin without causing problems. However, when it grows excessively, it can lead to redness, irritation, and nail changes.

A podiatrist can identify the type of fungal infection by examining the affected area and evaluating the symptoms. Treatment depends on the location and severity of the infection. Athlete’s foot is commonly treated with antifungal creams, sprays, or powders. More advanced infections sometimes require prescription medicine. Toenail fungus frequently requires oral medication because the infection develops beneath the nail surface. Early treatment can help prevent the infection from spreading to other nails or areas of the foot. If you have symptoms of a fungal infection in your feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact the podiatrists of Bigfoot Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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

An ankle sprain happens when the ligaments that support the ankle are stretched too far or torn. Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that connect bones and help keep joints stable. Most ankle sprains occur when the foot twists inward and the ankle rolls unexpectedly. This can happen while playing sports, stepping on an uneven surface, or missing a step on a staircase. Symptoms usually include pain, swelling, and bruising. Some people also notice tenderness around the ankle or feel that the joint is unstable when standing or walking. The severity of an ankle sprain can range from a mild stretch of the ligament to a complete tear.

Prompt evaluation is important because an ankle sprain can sometimes be more serious than it first appears. Severe sprains can make it difficult to put weight on the foot and may cause significant swelling. Without proper treatment, damaged ligaments can heal poorly and leave the ankle less stable. This increases the risk of future sprains and ongoing discomfort. A podiatrist can perform a thorough examination and determine the extent of the injury. Diagnostic imaging, like X-rays or advanced scans, can help rule out fractures and identify damage to soft tissues. Early diagnosis helps guide treatment and supports a safer recovery process.

Treatment depends on the severity of the sprain and the patient’s activity level. A podiatrist may recommend bracing, immobilization, or physical therapy to help restore strength and stability. Rehabilitation focuses on improving balance, flexibility, and muscle control. These measures help reduce the risk of repeat injuries and support a return to normal activities. In cases involving severe ligament damage or long-term instability, surgery may be considered. Proper treatment can help patients regain confidence in their movement and reduce the chance of chronic ankle problems. If you have symptoms of an ankle sprain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact the podiatrists from Bigfoot Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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