Verruca are wart(s), viral infections of the epidermis, skin. Most conventional treatment of warts involves an application of chemicals or cutting procedures. When these techniques are effective the virus is destroyed. All of the current procedures appear to work by creating an inflammatory response. The inflammatory response probably stimulates an immune response which may ultimately be responsible for the destruction of the viral lesion. All of the techniques currently available can vary in effectiveness.

For the past 20 years Adler Podiatry Clinic has used an "off-label" technique for treatment of warts. Bleomycin is a medication primarily indicated for treatment of lymphoma. In treating warts a small dose of the medication is injected into the skin. The medication is being used off-label. An air injector is employed to administer a single dose of bleomycin into the wart(s). The wart(s) appear to respond and gradually disappear.

Treatment of verruca using bleomycin appears to be 99% successful.

Varicose veins are typically unsightly, dilated veins under the skin in the leg and thigh. Leaving varicose veins untreated can lead to symptoms of itchiness, fatigue, pain in the legs and swelling of the skin. These symptoms often worsen.

If left untreated, varicose veins usually result in excess blood leaking into the tissues of the leg. The condition is called hyperpigmentation. Typically patients experience painful swelling and inflammation with the skin becoming dark and discolored.

Lipodermosclerosis occurs when the skin in the leg becomes chronically inflamed. The legs become tender and movement is often restricted.

Varicose veins can lead to chronic venous insufficiency. The skin over a prominent vein can break down leaving an open sore or venous ulcer.

Superficial thrombophlebitis occurs when a vein near the surface of the skin becomes inflamed. This results from the weakening of the vein with blood flow decreasing allowing the blood to become stagnant. You may experience redness of the skin, tenderness over the involved vein, pain and swelling in the legs.

While varicose veins can range from mild to severe, if you suffer from the condition, contact us. If neglected, varicose veins can have major health implications.

To schedule an appointment call (904) 731-1711.

Heel pain, plantar fasciitis, is the most common of all foot complaints. Heel spurs are also common, but they are merely a symptom and not the actual cause of heel pain. Pain at the back of the heel pain maybe Achilles Tendonitis or Bursitis. Young children may suffer from pediatric heel pain or Sever's Disease.

Most people experience pain in the heel with their first steps in the morning, after getting out of bed. The pain is usually on the botton, inside of the heel. The pain varies in severity. In most cases, heel pain is more severe following periods of inactivity (e.g. early in the morning or after sitting for a long period).

The pain will diminish throughout the day. However, after longer periods of inactivity (e.g. sitting at home or driving) heel pain will return stronger and sharper. Some heel pain sufferers may also experience tight calf muscles and achilles tendons.

The most common description of heel pain and heel spurs is called "Plantar Fasciitis". This is Latin for "inflammation of Plantar Fascia". The Plantar Fascia is the flat band of fibrous tissue under the foot that connects your heel bone to your toes. It supports the arch of your foot. Normally, the fascia should be flexible and strong. However in many people this is not the case. Due to factors such as weight-gain, age and incorrect foot function (ie. over-pronation) the plantar fascia are stretched out excessively with every step we take.

Consequently the ligament starts to pull away from its weakest point: ie. where the fascia inserts into the heel bone (calcaneus). This constant tension leads to micro-tearing of the tissue and inflammation at the attachment of the plantar fascia and heel bone, causing heel pain. During rest (e.g. when you're asleep or sitting), the plantar fascia tightens and shortens. When getting up body weight is rapidly applied to the foot and the fascia must stretch and quickly lengthen, causing micro-tearing in the fascia. Hence, the stabbing pain with your first steps in the morning or after sitting for a while.

Because of the continuous pulling of the fascia at the heel bone, the body eventually responds by developing a bony growth on the heel bone. This is called a Heel Spur or Calcaneal spur. The spur itself doesn't cause any pain, but it is visible on x-ray.

Self-treatment can be tried, but if not effective within 3 months, you need professional help.

Rest or reduced activity

Because the ligament around your heel bone is inflamed, you need to give the tissue a chance to recover. The body is very capable of healing itself and overcoming inflammation, provided you give it some rest. Avoid any running, sports, walking distances, walking up or down hills and standing for pro-longed periods for at least 6 weeks. Completely avoid any barefoot walking on hard tiles and floors, especially first thing in the morning!

Foot and leg exercises

Many people have tightness in their calf muscles and achilles tendons which can hamper our natural walking pattern, placing excess strain on the plantar fascia. Flexible muscles are very important in the treatment and prevention of most foot and leg injuries. Try gentle stretching exercises for the calf muscles, especially after periods of rest.

Ice and Anti-inflammatories

Two to three times a day, apply an ice pack or bag of frozen peas directly to the heel and hold it for 5-to 10 minutes. This will help provide temporary pain relief. Anti-inflammatory medications like Ibuprofen (found in Nurofen and Advil) will help decrease the inflammation of the plantar fascia as a result of the tissue micro-tearing. Voltaren Rapid is also a strong anti-inflammatory drug and helpful for temporary pain relief.

Support your arches with orthotics

Most podiatrists recommend orthotics to support the arches and re-allign the feet. Orthotics help treat the cause of heel pain (poor foot biomechanics). In most cases heel pain is simply caused by an incorrect walking pattern, which can be restored by wearing a custom orthotic inside the shoes.

To schedule an appointment call (904) 731-1711.

Ankle replacement surgery is just one of the several treatment options for those suffering from ankle arthritis. While non-surgical treatments remain to be the first choice for ankle arthritis, those with severe cases can opt for ankle fusion or ankle replacement surgery.

Ankle Fusion versus Ankle Replacement Surgery

Ankle fusion as the term implies requires fusing the bones and cartilages in the ankle. It has proven effective in proving long term pain relief and restoring a degree of mobility in the foot. Ankle replacement on the other hand involves the replacement of the bones and cartilage in the ankle.

While both are effective in providing pain relief and restoring mobility, ankle replacement gives patients better range of motion in the feet. Consult a podiatrist if you have any questions regarding the procedure. The doctors at Adler Podiatry Clinic specialize in helping people with ankle arthritis and treating foot disorders.

Is Ankle Replacement Surgery for you?

Ideal candidates for ankle surgery must first exhaust all available non-surgical treatments. This is because like any type of surgery, ankle replacement has its own share of risks and complications. Candidates must also show that they are generally in good health.

How is it done?

Anesthesia is introduced into the area of surgery. This is to numb the area prior to surgery. When the anesthesia has taken effect, a surgeon then proceeds to making an incision to gain access to the ankles. When an incision is made, the ankle is removed and the bones surrounding the ankle are prepared for the new ankle. The artificial ankle is then is secured and the wound is closed.

A patient stays in the hospital for a few days for after surgery assessment. The patient is then released if no complications are found. A splint is placed to immobilize and provide additional support for the feet. When the foot has sufficiently healed, a rehabilitation program involving physical therapy exercises is undertaken.

Gradually strength and mobility is restored in the foot. Ankle replacement surgery gives ankle arthritis sufferers better range of motion in their foot while providing long-term pain relief. At Adler Podiatry Clinic located in Jacksonville, FL, we specialize in helping people suffering from ankle arthritis. To schedule an appointment call (904) 731-1711.

The foot is subjected to pressure from walking, running or even standing. It is tasked with supporting our body weight with every step we take. All the various foot structures contribute to this effort. The bones, joints, muscles and even the skin are responsible for absorbing and dispersing the pressure of weight bearing on your foot.

Cracked heels can be the result of pressure bearing down on dry skin. The feet can also produce more skin cells in an attempt to provide extra cushion. Cracked skin creates a convenient opening for infection. For diabetics with compromised immune systems this could lead to other complications. This makes treating cracked heels an essential part of proper foot care in diabetics. Consult a medical professional for help if you have any problems treating cracked heels. The doctors at Adler Podiatry Clinic specialize in foot care and treating foot disorders in diabetics.

Regularly check your heels for cracked skins, cuts or infection. Cracked heels like any disorder are easier to heal when identified early. Daily feet checks are recommended for diabetics with poor blood circulation or diminished sensory perception in their feet.

Wash your feet daily. Avoid soaking your feet for long periods of time as this can worsen the condition. Soaking rubs your skin of moisture. Be careful to dry areas between the toes as this be breeding grounds for infection.

High glucose levels can cause your skin to lose its natural moisture. Apply lotion over the feet after washing them and before you sleep. Restoring moisture to your skin prevents the skin from cracking open.

Prevent cracked heels. If thick skin is noticed, use a pumice stone to file this away. Avoid using nail cutters or blades to peel off dry skin. This can lead to cuts and infections.

Diabetes if left unmanaged leads to serious medical complications. Elevated blood pressure, nerve damage, eye damage and foot damage are just some of the complications resulting from diabetes. Foot damage in particular is a concern since serious conditions can result in amputation. At Adler Podiatry Clinic located in Jacksonville, FL, we specialize in helping diabetics with foot disorders. To schedule an appointment call (904) 731-1711.

Foot joints play a major role in supporting our weight and keeping our feet flexible. When this become injured, simple activities such as walking or running become difficult if not impossible. Taking good care of our joints saves us from the trouble of arthritis and other foot problems in the future. Proper foot care is simple, we just need to follow this simple reminders.

Keep them strong by exercising regularly

Build strength in your bones and foot joints by exercising regularly. Walking a few blocks to the office strengthens the joints readying it for the tough day ahead. Living an active lifestyle also helps you get rid of those extra pounds further reducing the stress on your feet and joints. If you feel consistent foot pain during exercises consult a podiatrist. The doctors at Adler Podiatry Clinic specialize in helping people suffering from foot conditions.

Load up on Calcium

We all know that calcium is essential in building strong bones. Get your recommended amounts of calcium by eating right. Calcium intake becomes crucial as we age as our body needs more of it to keep our bones strong. Dairy products will always be rich sources of calcium. You could also switch this up with broccoli, fish and kale.

Keep off the sweets

Too much sweets in your diet does not only get you on the heavy side of the weighing scale but can also decrease bone density. Switching to healthier snacks is alternative. Cut down on your sweet consumption to give your feet and joints a break by staying on the lighter side.

Keep your joints strong with Omega 3

Omega 3 fatty acids has anti-inflammatory properties. This can go a long way in helping people with arthritic conditions. It helps reduce inflammation in people suffering from arthritis.

Get your dose of Vitamin D

You might be getting the right amount of Calcium but still having problems with absorbing this. Vitamin D is responsible for helping in calcium absorption. Make sure you get the right amounts of Vitamin D by including eggs, cod liver and salmon.

Pain and inflammation are early indications of joint or foot injury. Having this checked immediately gives you the best chance of recovery. At Adler Podiatry Clinic located in Jacksonville, FL, we specialize in helping people suffering from foot injuries. To schedule an appointment call (904) 731-1711.

Foot care essentials include the proper use of footwear. More than fashion accessories, the right footwear can provide proper support even for those with foot disorders. Shopping for shoes should not only involve finding the right shoe size. You should also take into account what these are going to be used for. If you are currently suffering from flat foot or a high arch, then you should look for shoes that provide extra foot support.

Style versus Comfort

Select shoes which do not only reflect your taste in fashion but also include comfort in your criteria. Take a careful look into your lifestyle and which type of shoes should be used. If regular days involve taking commutes or long walks to the office then buying a pair of comfortable sneakers could make your journey a lot easier. You can then switch to your formals upon reaching the office.

Identifying Feet Conditions

Flat feet and high arch are common foot conditions. The foot is a highly evolved structure designed to support our weight. These two foot conditions affects how weight is supported and places greater stress on the different foot structures. Stress that the foot is not designed for.

To check if you are suffering from a foot condition, wet your feet and place it over a piece of paper. How your footprint is shaped can indicate a foot disorder. A clearly visible middle foot area is an indication of flat feet. While those with a thin line connecting the heel to the ball of the foot can mean a high arch.

Getting the Right Shoe for Flat Foot and High Arches

Consult a podiatrist if you suspect any foot disorders. Flat feet and a high arch may not show any symptoms but if left untreated, it can lead to foot damage. Those with flat feet should use inserts for better foot support. High arch sufferers on the other hand should go for shoes that have elevated heels and good arch support. The doctors at Adler Podiatry Clinic specialize in helping people with foot disorders and injuries.

Wearing the right sports shoe

Sports shoes were designed to enhance performance and prevent foot injury. High impact sports such as basketball or marathons each require a special type of shoe. Basketball shoes for example provide extra ankle support aside from cushioning the impact of jumps and running down the court.

At Adler Podiatry Clinic located in Jacksonville, FL, we specialize in helping people find relief from foot disorders. To schedule an appointment call (904) 731-1711.

Adult acquired flat foot deformity is a medical condition described as the failure of the middle of our feet to arch when standing. Flat foot can be seen in children but this disappears when the feet develops. Flat feet can develop due to obesity or pregnancy as the feet is unable to retain its form due to the additional weight bearing on the feet. However, in some cases this can be the result of an underlying medical condition.

Flat foot does not usually show any signs or symptoms. It can go unnoticed until pain or a deformity is exhibited. While flat feet could be treated non-surgically extreme cases may require surgery. Consulting a podiatrist is advised for those with flat foot who experience chronic pain. The doctors at Adler Podiatry Clinic specialize in treating people with foot disorders.

Flat Foot Signs and Symptoms
- Pain when standing which goes away when feet is rested
- Development of bony bumps in the feet
- Leg pain that radiates from the feet
- Pain when performing intense physical or weight bearing activities
- Swelling and tenderness at the bottom of the feet

Possible causes of Acquired Adult Flat Foot

Diabetes

Loss of sensation or neuroma is a common diabetic complication. This is a result of nerve damage due to the high volume of blood sugar circulating in the body. The loss of sensation makes it impossible for diabetics to detect pain. A diabetics may suffer from a foot injury such as Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction (PTTD) without ever noticing it.

Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction (PTTD)
Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction is a leading cause of acquired adult flat foot. The posterior tibial tendon is a major tendon that supports the foot arch and leg movements like walking. When this becomes injured or damaged it can cause the arch of the foot to collapse. PTTD can be caused by obesity, hypertension, age or diabetes.

Arthritis
Inflammation of the joints or arthritic diseases can result to intense pain in people suffering from flat feet. This is because arthritis does not only damage the joint cartilages but also affect surrounding structures. Extreme cases of arthritis can even lead to foot deformities.

At Adler Podiatry Clinic located in Jacksonville, FL, we specialize in helping people find relief from foot disorders. To schedule an appointment call (904) 731-1711.

Our feet and ankles are constantly exposed to pressure from carrying our bodyweight. Multiply this pressure a couple of notches when jumping and running and you increase your risk for ankle and foot injury exponentially. Running a mile requires pounding our feet for around 800 times. So be sure to take better precaution whenever you plan to run another mile.

It takes months of practice before runners are able to compete in a marathon. Rookies or beginners are prone to foot or ankle injuries compared to their veteran counterparts. Veteran runners avoid injuries through years of training and practice.

A big part of preventing foot and ankle injuries deals with what you do before running. Below are simple tips for runners to avoid foot and ankle injuries:

Loosen your feet and ankles by warming up

Protect your feet and ankles against abuse by warming it up. A few minutes of exercise and stretching gets the blood flowing to these areas. Blood supplies oxygen, energy and nutrients to the feet and ankles. Brisk walking or gradually running to a faster pace helps your feet and ankles loosen up.

Get proper equipment

Getting the right type of running shoes is a valuable asset in any runner’s arsenal. But athletic shoes are not created equal. Shoes designed for basketball may not offer the same level of shock absorbing protection as running shoes. Spending a few dollars on a good pair of running shoes is cheaper compared to medical payments for foot or ankle injuries.

If you are suffering from foot conditions such as flat feet consult a podiatrist. The doctors at Adler Podiatry Clinic specialize in treating people with foot conditions.

Protect your feet against friction

Running does not only cause foot or ankle injury it could also lead to the development of blisters. Sweat and dirt may enter this skin openings causing pain and possible infection. Wearing socks or applying lubricants or using foot powder greatly reduces friction.

Weight training

Prepare your feet and ankles for long distance running by conditioning them with weight training exercises. Gradually build up strength in these areas. You’re not only preventing injuries but it also helps you run more miles with less effort.

Reduce the pace when pain is felt during running. Assess the situation and if pain becomes persistent, stop running and rest the feet. Consult a podiatrist for immediate treatment. At Adler Podiatry Clinic located in Jacksonville, FL, we specialize in helping people find relief from foot injuries. To schedule an appointment call (904) 731-1711.

Identifying the early signs of any medical condition is the best way to prevent serious or long term complications. This holds true for everyone but especially for seniors. Foot injuries may take longer to heal and their body might not be as resilient when they were young.

Signs and symptoms may be mild at first. This might go unnoticed until pain becomes unbearable signaling the onset of a serious foot injury. Consult with a podiatrist if you suspect a foot condition. This is to avoid long term disabilities. The doctors at Adler Podiatry Clinic specialize in treating people with foot conditions.

Hammertoe
If you notice an abnormally flexed toe which is usually seen in the second toe, this could indicate a hammertoe. This condition makes wearing shoes uncomfortable. Making it difficult for you to perform simple activities such as walking or running.

Ingrown toenail
Stinging pain felt when pressing a toe can be a sign of an ingrown toenail. Again, this makes it hard to find comfortable shoes. Infection could also set in as a wound may develop from the nails abnormally pressing inward.

Bunions
Look for a bump outside of your big toe. This might seem harmless but bunions could lead to inflammation of the tissues under the bone. Complications include redness, inflammation and pain in the area when touched.

Diabetic Foot Problems
Diabetes can lead to serious medical complications. Small cuts could quickly turn into a severe infection which may require amputation. Drastic treatments such amputation can be easily avoided with early identification and proper foot care. Poor blood circulation can also cause foot pain in diabetics.

Arthritis
Weak bones, inflammation of the joints (caused by arthritic conditions) and gout can lead to the development of joint deformities, swelling, rigidness and chronic pain.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Numbing, tingling, burning sensation and pain felt at night can be an indication of tarsal tunnel syndrome.

Achilles Tendinitis
One of the strongest tendon in the body, the Achilles tendon runs vertically from your feet. The medical condition makes simple activities such as walking difficult due to severe pain from inflamed tissues.

Seniors suffering from diabetes should regularly consult with a podiatrist to avoid foot complications. At Adler Podiatry Clinic located in Jacksonville, FL, we specialize in helping people find relief from foot painful foot conditions. To schedule an appointment call (904) 731-1711.

Everyone has their own favorite pair of shoes. Whether it’s a sneaker or that gorgeous pair of high heels, we all have our own unique preference for certain types of foot ware. Shoes are the extension of our feet. And we should not only consider its aesthetic value but also place importance in its role in helping our feet stay healthy.

Morton’s neuroma is a foot disorder that can cause pain, loss of sensation and burning in the ball of the foot or base of the toes. It starts as a tingling or burning sensation that steadily increases until pain becomes so intense that wearing shoes becomes unbearable.

Treating Morton’s Neuroma
A podiatrist course of treatment depend on the severity of the condition. Non-surgical treatments are effective especially for those whose condition was diagnosed early. This is why knowing the early signs of Morton’s neuroma is essential in stopping it from progressing into something more serious. The doctors at Adler Podiatry Clinic specialize in foot care and treating foot disorders.

• Give your toes a break by switching to more comfortable shoes – high heels place additional pressure on the toes as weight is shifted to the area
• Pain medications – can be taken orally or through injection
• Orthotic devices – provides support to relieve pressure on the nerve
• Resting the feet – release the pressure by getting off your toes

Surgery
Surgery for Morton’s neuroma is performed when non-surgical treatments prove ineffective. This is usually performed with a local anesthesia and requires less than an hour. Surgery is performed to decrease or eliminate nerve compression. This can be done by removing tissue around the nerve or by completely removing the nerve. However, removing the nerve results to permanent loss of sensation in the area.

Complications of Surgery
Any type of surgery has its own share of complications. Permanent loss of sensation in the toes is a constant concern. Discussing possible complications with a podiatrist helps you identify early danger signs. Infection and skin thickening on the sole of the feet may need additional treatments.

Consult a podiatrist for any signs of Morton’s neuroma. At Adler Podiatry Clinic located in Jacksonville, FL, we specialize in helping people find relief from Morton's neuroma. To schedule an appointment call (904) 731-1711.

Trimming or cutting an ingrown toenail should be done by a podiatrist. An ingrown toenail can be very painful and even the slightest touch could trigger pain. Which makes cutting an ingrown toenail laborious and a very painful experience. This is especially true for ingrown toenail that has developed an infection. It could only worsen the medical condition hence, the need for a podiatrist. The doctors at Adler Podiatry Clinic specialize in treating people with infected ingrown toenails.

Ingrown Toenail Symptoms

Ingrown toenails are barely noticeable unless the condition has become full blown and pain has become untenable. Before your condition worsens it is important to identify the early symptoms of an ingrown toe nail to cut it in the bud.

• Pain around the toenails
• Redness and tenderness in the toenail
• Discharges from the toenails (infection)
• Pain when wearing shoes

Causes of Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails can be caused by several factors.

Toe injuries
Tight-fitting shoes
Excessive nail trimming
Diabetes
Toe infections
Vascular disease
Nail deformity caused by another disease

Cutting Ingrown Toenails

Cutting an ingrown toenail by yourself is highly discouraged and should be avoided. But if this is something you would like to do on your own, below are a few simple steps on how to cut your ingrown toenail:

The first step involves soaking your affected foot in warm water mixed with antibacterial soap. The water softens the nail and reduce swelling. Soak for around 15 minutes.

Using your fingers, push the skin around the ingrown toenail. This can be painful. Push the skin until pain is no longer tolerable.

Cut the ingrown toenail straight across. Be careful not to cut into any of the swollen skin areas around the ingrown toenail. Start cutting from the sides and not from the middle to reduce stress and minimize pain.

Place a small piece of cotton between the skin and exposed area of the nail where the ingrown was originally located. This is to avoid the ingrown from coming back.

Apply an antiseptic ointment to prevent infection over the exposed skin. Cutting the nail could expose sensitive skin or even create cuts or wounds.

Keep your toes dry and wear slippers when possible to let your toe breathe. This prevents infection and lets the toe heal more easily.

Adler Podiatry Clinic located in Jacksonville, FL, we specialize in helping people find relief from ingrown toenails. To schedule an appointment call (904) 731-1711.

A bunion is a boney prominence caused by the repositioning of the joints at the base of the big toe. Bunions may not show signs or symptoms until it has become full blown. This is why a visit to a podiatrist is advised if you suspect a foot bunion. Possible signs include pain on the big toe during walking which is immediately relieved by resting the foot.

Any deformity in the big toe accompanied by pain can also be a clear indication of a bunion. The doctors at Adler Podiatry Clinic are podiatrists who specialize in helping people suffering from bunions.

Who can develop a bunion?

Some studies suggest that women are more likely to develop foot bunions compare to men. This is possibly because of the type of shoes worn by women. Tight-fitting, high-heels and narrow-toed shoes can cause the development of foot bunions. These types of shoes could also aggravate pain felt by those already suffering from bunions.

Possible complications of bunions:

Bunions can become a permanent condition unless surgical intervention is done. Possible complications resulting from foot bunions include bursitis, hammertoe, metatarsalgia, arthritis and inflammation of the toe. Sometimes, complications can arise after surgery.

Possible complications after surgery include allergic reactions from the use of anesthesia, bleeding, infection, recurrence of the bunion, nerve damage, stiffness of the toe and continued pain. However, bunion surgery going wrong is highly unlikely.

What is the prognosis of a bunion?

Although surgery is the most effective way in treating bunions, medications are also highly effective. Early diagnosis of foot bunions by a podiatrist is essential in developing an effective treatment plan. Several medical tests are performed to determine the underlying cause and extent of structural damage to the toe.

After bunion surgery, patients report decreased episodes of pain and reduction of toe deformity. Surgery may be able to repair some of the deformity but it might not restore the toe’s shape into pre-bunion form. Full recovery from the foot bunion surgery may take 3 to 5 months.

At Adler Podiatry Clinic located in Jacksonville, FL, we specialize in helping people find relief from chronic foot pain and bunions. To schedule an appointment call (904) 731-1711.

Heel pain is one of the most common foot concerns podiatrists see.” The condition is so common that many Americans simply regard this as part of their daily lives. For many, heel pain may come and go, but for some it can become a chronic or long-term medical condition making this a real health concern.

Studies show that our heels absorb 1.25 x of our bodyweight when walking and close to three times our bodyweight when running. Quick Facts on Heel Pain Heel pain affects 3.6 percent of the population Wearing flat shoes is the most common culprit for heel pain Heel pain can be an indication of an underlying medical condition Pain is usually felt just under the heel or behind it Rest, wearing properly fitting shoes, ice and using foot support can ease heel pain People with flat feet or tight calf muscles are highly susceptible to heel pain. A pulled ligament in your arch called the plantar fascia becomes inflamed resulting to tenderness in the area and heel pain. This injury is often the result of placing too much stress on the area as a result of sports activities or simply wearing the wrong type of shoes.

Common causes of Heel Pain Heel pain may come suddenly as a result of a sport’s injury or gradually due to constant stress on the heels. The most common causes are:

Plantar fasciitis – this is a ligament that runs from the heels to the tip of the foot. When stretched too far, the ligaments become inflamed causing pain and tenderness in tissues around the area.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome – a large nerve located at the back of the feet can be compressed causing pain in the heel area.

Achilles tendonosis – also referred to as tendonitis, is a chronic condition characterized by the progressive degeneration of the Achilles tendon. Years of abuse cause multiple microscopic tears which when not healed properly develops into this medical condition.

Severs disease – is a medical condition often seen in children and teenage athletes. Heel pain is caused by continuous pressure on the developing heel bone due to strenuous physical activities.

Stress fracture – continuous heavy physical activities can gradually build stress on the heels causing a fracture. Low calcium diets or osteoporosis which leaves you with weak bones can trigger fractures especially during running.

Understanding the underlying causes of heel pain could go a long way in reducing or preventing it from happening in the future. Heel pain could be a nagging problem but for those who chronically suffer from heel pain, consulting with a podiatrist is highly recommended. At Adler Podiatry Clinic located in Jacksonville, FL, our doctors specialize in helping people find relief from acute and chronic heel pain. To schedule an appointment call (904) 731-1711

Approximately half of the 28 million Americans with diabetes will suffer from neuropathy. This medical condition is characterized by the loss of sensation in the extremities including the feet. Although neuropathy does not cause wounds or blisters, it places you at greater risk for wound infections.

Diabetes and your Feet

Diabetes can result to progressive loss of sensation in the feet. We become unaware of cuts and wounds because our brains do not receive any pain feedback. This places our health at great risk especially when the wound is not visible or located at the sole of our feet. Through time this wound becomes infected leading to more serious medical conditions.

People diagnosed with diabetes have high levels of sugar in their blood. This impedes with normal blood circulation and makes it difficult to pass through small blood vessels. It affects the normal flow of blood to the feet depriving it from nutrients and infection- fighting antibodies.

Consult a podiatrist for wound that don’t heal properly. This can be an indication of diabetes. The doctors at Adler Podiatry Clinic are podiatrists who specializes in helping people with foot conditions.

Taking care of your feet

1. Wash your feet regularly

A simple task that is often ignored. Washing your feet regularly prevents the onset of infection and gives you the opportunity to inspect your feet for wounds or cuts. Special attention should be given for areas between the toes where dirt can be deposited.

2. Wear shoes and socks

Protect your feet from coming into direct contact with the ground. Wearing beach sandals for example is a simple way of avoiding small sharp rocks at the beach. Even your home’s surface is dangerous, you never know if a small rock or a sharp edged object might be lying wait on the floor.

3. Moisturize to soften the skin

Lotions and moisturizers prevents dry skin. This prevents the development of blisters due to constant rubbing with your socks or shoes.

4. Avoid extreme hot and cold surfaces

Temperature sensors in the feet warn us of hot or cold surfaces. This prevents us from getting burned or damaging our skin. Wearing shoes at all times keeps our feet insulated from extreme hot or cold surfaces.

5. Make it a habit to regularly trim your nails

Check your toenails after washing and drying your feet. Cut them regularly and remember to do this gently to avoid cutting into the skin.

6. Inspect your feet regularly

Check for wounds or blisters that might have developed over the day. This can be done after reaching home and removing your shoes. Help should be sought if you are unable to inspect all feet areas.

Adler Podiatry Clinic located in Jacksonville, FL, we specialize in helping people find relief from acute and chronic heel pain. To schedule an appointment call (904) 731-1711.

Verruca are viral infestations of the epidermis. Most conventional treatment involves application of chemicals, cutting procedures, or techniques which attempt to destroy the virus. The resulting effect of all procedures is typically a secondary inflammatory response. The inflammatory response probably stimulates an immune response which may ultimately be responsible for the destruction of the viral lesion. A single intradermal injection of bleomycin (off label) into the verruca appears to be 99% successful in treating verruca.