Heel pain often results from various mechanical causes. The location of the heel pain can help determine its source, with plantar fasciitis being one of the most frequent causes. This condition leads to pain on the bottom of the heel, often felt during the first steps in the morning, or after prolonged rest. Other causes of plantar heel pain include stress fractures, often becoming worse with increased activity, and nerve entrapment, which brings sensations like tingling or burning. Conditions like heel pad syndrome can lead to deep, bruise-like pain in the middle of the heel. Posterior heel pain might be related to Achilles tendinopathy or a Haglund deformity, which causes inflammation around the Achilles tendon. Sever’s disease is common among children, as a result of an inflamed growth plate at the back of the heel. A podiatrist can perform a thorough assessment, including physical exams and imaging if needed, to identify the cause and develop a treatment plan. If you are experiencing heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Patrick Bruton, DPM of Big Country foot and Ankle. Our doctor 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 contact our offices located in Abilene, and Brownwood, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Nerve pain in the feet often leads to burning sensations, tingling, numbness, and weakness, which may worsen at night. It usually originates from issues that affect the nerves in the spine or along their course down the leg. For example, a herniated disc or spinal stenosis can compress nerves in the lower back, leading to radiating pain from the back or leg into the feet. Peripheral neuropathy, which involves nerve damage in the extremities, can be caused by diabetes, injuries, or prolonged alcohol consumption. In these cases, people may experience altered sensations, sharp pains, or foot drop, which affect mobility. A podiatrist can assess and identify the underlying cause of nerve pain in the feet by conducting a variety of diagnostic tests. This foot doctor can also provide treatment options specifically designed to relieve discomfort and restore foot function. If you are experiencing symptoms of nerve pain in the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for guidance.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Patrick Bruton, DPM from Big Country foot and Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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

As people age, various changes occur in the feet that can impact overall health and mobility. The skin on the feet may become thinner and less elastic, leading to dryness and an increased risk of cracking or injuries. Toenails also undergo changes, often becoming thicker, more brittle, and susceptible to fungal infections. These alterations can make grooming more challenging and may require special attention to maintain foot health. Additionally, foot mobility can decline with age due to factors such as arthritis, reduced muscle strength, and diminished range of motion. This can affect balance and increase the risk of falls. Regular foot care, including moisturizing, proper nail trimming, and wearing appropriate footwear, is essential for maintaining healthy feet as one ages. If you are elderly and have foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment methods.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Patrick Bruton, DPM from Big Country foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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