Heel Spurs: Treatment and Prevention

Heel spurs are another foot problem that we can diagnose and treat here at Affiliated Ankle and Foot Care of Soldotna, AK. While sometimes heel spurs can develop and cause no pain at all, other times they can cause a great deal of pain.

A sharp pain in the bottom of the foot when first standing in the morning is a common symptom of a heel spurs. The pain often returns when someone stands up after sitting for a long period of time and while walking, jogging, and running. After the sharp pain subsides, it is replaced with a dull ache.

There are conservative and invasive ways to relieve heel spurs. Anti-inflammatory medications can help with pain and swelling, as well as stretching, orthotics, certain shoes, and physical therapy. In some cases, your podiatrist may want to inject a corticosteroid to relieve the inflammation in the area.

When conservative approaches do not work, this is when surgical options are considered. The heel spur can be removed, or the plantar fascia (the thick band of tissue along the bottom of your foot) may be released.

To prevent heel spurs, make sure to wear well-fitting shoes for each activity you are doing. Also make sure to warm up and cool down after physical activities. If you wear out the heels of your shoes, make sure to replace them.

If you have been experiencing heel pain, come in for an examination at our Soldotna, AK location. To schedule, call Affiliated Ankle and Foot Care at (907) 260-3668 or visit our website, www.hcotler.com. 

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes has many effects on feet, and it is extremely important that any diabetic seek podiatric care. Here at Affiliated Ankle & Foot Care Center, Dr. Cotler has a wealth of experience in assisting diabetic patients with their foot care.

 

Diabetes is a condition that affects many organs and systems in the body. Feet are the first place where effects of diabetes are seen, mainly because they are the furthest extremities from the heart. It is a well-known fact that one of the first systemic conditions that diabetes effects is the circulatory system. Dr. Cotler specializes in disorders of the foot and ankle and therefore is highly trained to examine for abnormalities of the lower extremity.

 

Many times podiatrists are the first doctors to diagnose vascular disease and neuropathy in the lower extremities. Diabetes can cause both of these systemic disorders and by seeing a podiatrist, the feet, which are most affected by diabetes, can be cared for on a regular basis. Often a small problem can be diagnosed and treated at an early stage and helps prevent the condition from progressing to a more serious disorder.

 

If you suffer from diabetes, it is crucial that you ensure foot health by working with a podiatrist. This will truly reduce the likelihood of an infection. Preventative care is the best step you could take if you have diabetes. 

Work-Related Foot Problems

When it comes to work-related foot injuries, it doesn’t matter what line of work you’re in, you are at risk of foot injuries. While most foot injuries occur off the job, there are a number of work-related factors that can lead to foot problems, especially in jobs that require long periods of standing.

 

The main thing to remember when you’re thinking about your foot health while working is choosing the right footwear. Poor footwear that does not fit properly heavily contributes to foot disorders. You should look for the following in a pair of work shoes:

• Flexibility – footwear should stretch and grow with your feet
• Comfort fit – sometimes feet are different sizes so make sure to measure both feet when shopping
• Timing – buy your new shoes in the late-afternoon when feet are swollen to their maximum size
• Shock-absorbing – if the shoes you’re looking at don’t have shock-absorbing qualities, buy insoles. Your feet will thank you if you’re walking around a lot as part of your job.

Next time you have an appointment with Dr. Harry Cotler, tell him about your job and ask what types of shoes you should wear, he’s happy to help! We treat all types of foot pain, so if you aren’t sure what you have just call for an appointment. The most work-related pain we treat is:

• Bunions
• Hammertoe
• Arch disorders
• Heel spurs
• Corns and callouses
• Ingrown toenails