Heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the underside of the heel bone, typically as a result of prolonged stress or strain on the foot. The most common cause of heel spurs is plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the tissue that connects the heel to the toes. Other factors that contribute to heel spurs include wearing improper footwear, obesity, repetitive activities that put pressure on the feet, and abnormal foot mechanics such as flat feet or high arches. While heel spurs themselves are often painless, they can lead to complications such as chronic pain, difficulty walking, and inflammation. In some cases, the spur may press on nearby nerves, causing sharp or shooting pain. If left untreated, heel spurs may limit mobility and interfere with daily activities, leading to long-term discomfort and reduced quality of life. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment solutions.

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 Dr. John C. Lawlor from Florida. 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 one of our our offices located in Cape Coral and LaBelle, FL . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Bunions, medically known as hallux valgus, occur when the big toe shifts toward the smaller toes, causing a bony bump to form on the inside of the foot. This misalignment often develops gradually, with genetic factors and wearng ill-fitting footwear being common contributors. The protrusion can cause discomfort, especially when tight or stiff shoes rub against it, resulting in redness, swelling, or pain around the joint. As the toe deformity progresses, it may lead to uneven pressure distribution, sometimes causing pain beneath the ball of the foot. Certain non-surgical bunion treatments, like appropriate footwear and wearing custom orthotics, can help to relieve bunion symptoms. However, surgery  may become necessary when persistent pain interferes with your daily activities. A podiatrist can assess the severity of the bunion, offer specific treatments, and recommend strategies to prevent further progression. If you are suffering from bunion pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Dr. John C. Lawlor of Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our our offices located in Cape Coral and LaBelle, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Adult flat feet occur when the arches of the feet collapse or flatten, leading to a lack of natural arch support. One common cause is excessive body weight, which places extra pressure on the feet and can weaken the arch over time. Foot or ankle injuries, such as fractures or sprains, can also damage the structures supporting the arch, leading to flat feet. Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is another contributor, as the inflammation it causes can affect the joints in the feet, leading to a collapse of the arch. As people age, the tendons and ligaments in the feet naturally weaken, making flat feet more common. Symptoms of adult flat feet include foot pain, swelling, and fatigue, particularly after prolonged standing or walking. If you have flat feet, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. John C. Lawlor from Florida. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our our offices located in Cape Coral and LaBelle, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Choosing the right running shoes is essential to enhancing performance and preventing injury. The type of running you do plays a significant role in determining the best shoe for you. If you are a long-distance runner, look for shoes that offer plenty of cushioning to absorb impact over extended periods. For speedwork or short-distance running, lightweight shoes with a more responsive feel will help improve your pace. Trail runners require shoes with durable outsoles and better grip to handle uneven, rough terrains. Consider your foot arch and pronation as well. Those with flat feet or overpronation may benefit from shoes with added support, while high arches may need shoes with more flexibility and cushioning. Proper fit is key, so make sure there is enough room in the toe box and that the shoe feels snug without causing discomfort. If you have endured a foot injury from wearing the wrong running shoes, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on choosing the right running shoes.

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact Dr. John C. Lawlor from Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

• Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
• Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
• Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our our offices located in Cape Coral and LaBelle, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis, or JIA, is an autoimmune disease that causes chronic inflammation in children’s joints, including the feet. This condition can lead to joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, particularly in the ankles and feet, making movement challenging and uncomfortable. For kids with JIA, customized preformed orthotics can provide essential support. These orthotics start with a pre-made structure, which is then tailored to the child’s specific foot shape and needs, offering personalized comfort and stability. By adjusting the orthotic’s arch support, heel cushioning, and alignment, these inserts help reduce pressure on inflamed joints and improve gait, which is often affected in JIA. Customized preformed orthotics can relieve pain, reduce joint stress, and enhance mobility, making daily activities more manageable. If your child has JIA, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss if orthotics can help manage pain in their feet and ankles.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Dr. John C. Lawlor from Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact one of our our offices located in Cape Coral and LaBelle, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.