Heel spurs are bony growths that can form on the heel bone in response to constant strain on the foot's soft tissues. The two most common types are plantar heel spurs, which develop underneath the heel, and dorsal heel spurs, which form at the back of the heel near the Achilles tendon. These heel spurs often result from long-term traction, meaning a continuous pulling force placed on the heel bone by muscles, tendons, and the plantar fascia. This ongoing pull can be the result of standing, walking, or abnormal foot motion. This happens when the arch flattens too much, a motion called excessive pronation. Over time, the repeated strain may lead to microtears in the plantar fascia, which triggers inflammation and the formation of a heel spur. A podiatrist can diagnose the cause of heel pain and offer appropriate treatment, including orthotics or surgery. If you are experiencing heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment options.

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 Andrew Katz, DPM from Allcare Foothealth Center. 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 Palmdale, CA . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Running shoes and workout shoes are built to support the feet in different ways, based on how each activity affects movement and impact. Running shoes are designed to absorb repeated forward motion, with extra cushioning in the midsole to help reduce the pressure on the feet during long-distance runs. They often have a higher heel-to-toe drop to cushion the heel strike, which helps protect the arches and ankles from overuse injuries. In contrast, workout shoes are made for side-to-side movement, quick pivots, and a range of activities that demand better ankle support and foot stability. These shoes generally have flatter soles and flexible materials to allow natural foot motion during squats, jumps, or lateral drills.  A podiatrist can help assess foot structure and advise on proper footwear to reduce injury risks and manage pain. If you are experiencing foot pain after working out or running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, treatment options, and guidance in choosing the correct shoes for your desired activity.

It is important to find shoes that fit you properly in order to avoid a variety of different foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Andrew Katz, DPM from Allcare Foothealth Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

Shoes have many different functions. They cushion our body weight, protect our feet, and allow us to safely play sports. You should always make sure that the shoes you wear fit you properly in order to avoid injuries and deformities such as: bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and more. It is important to note that although a certain pair of shoes might be a great fit for someone else, that doesn’t mean they will be a great fit for you. This is why you should always try on shoes before buying them to make sure they are worth the investment. Typically, shoes need to be replaced ever six months to one year of regular use.

Tips for Proper Shoe Fitting

• Select a shoe that is shaped like your foot
• Don’t buy shoes that fit too tight, expecting them to stretch to fit
• Make sure there is enough space (3/8” to ½”) for your longest toe at the end of each shoe when you are standing up
• Walk in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right
• Don’t select shoes by the size marked inside the shoe, but by how the shoe fits your foot

The shoes you buy should always feel as good as they look. Shoes that fit properly will last longer, feel better, and improve your way of life each day.

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

Skin peeling between the toes is often caused by moisture and friction, but several foot-related issues may also be responsible. One common reason is a fungal infection, often picked up in places like locker rooms or pool areas. This can cause peeling, itching, and cracks between the toes. Blisters from rubbing or minor injuries can also peel as they heal. If the skin stays wet for too long, it may soften and break down, especially in cold or damp conditions. In people with diabetes, peeling skin between the toes may be a sign of a sore that is not healing well. In rare cases, peeling may also be linked to a skin infection that causes swelling, warmth, or pain. A podiatrist can examine your feet, identify what is causing the peeling, and provide the right treatment. If the skin between your toes is peeling and becoming problematic, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Andrew Katz, DPM of Allcare Foothealth Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Palmdale, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Foot pain while walking can stem from a variety of conditions involving the many bones, tendons, ligaments, and nerves in the feet. Plantar fasciitis often causes sharp heel pain, due to inflammation of the plantar fascia, which runs along the sole of the foot. Metatarsalgia, which affects the ball of the foot, can feel like stepping on a pebble and may worsen with activity. Morton’s neuroma involves nerve thickening between the toes and often causes burning or tingling. Tendinitis, including Achilles or peroneal tendinitis, leads to pain that intensifies with continued use. Flat feet may strain the arch and inner ankle, while arthritis can inflame multiple foot joints. A podiatrist can properly diagnose these issues and offer appropriate treatment, including surgery, when needed. If you experience foot pain while walking, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Andrew Katz, DPM from Allcare Foothealth Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Diabetic neuropathy is a common complication of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, caused by prolonged high blood sugar levels that damage the nerves, particularly in the feet. Symptoms typically include numbness, tingling, burning, or sharp pain. However, a lesser-known symptom is the loss of temperature sensitivity, which can lead to unrecognized burns from hot surfaces or heating pads. The feet may appear normal or have dry, cracked skin due to reduced sweat production. Over time, nerve damage can lead to muscle weakness and changes in foot shape, increasing the risk of pressure sores or ulcers. A podiatrist diagnoses diabetic neuropathy through a physical exam, nerve testing, and by assessing skin and circulation health. Treatment focuses on managing blood sugar, protecting the feet, using custom orthotics, and preventing complications with regular checkups and foot care education. If you are dealing with this condition, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for evaluation and treatment.

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 Andrew Katz, DPM from Allcare Foothealth Center. 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 office located in Palmdale, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.