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A small growth on the bottom of the heel bone may indicate a heel spur. Patients who have plantar fasciitis may have heel spurs, and this affects the tendon that runs along the bottom of the foot. People who are afflicted with heel spurs often notice heel pain after arising in the morning, and mild relief may be found while walking. The pain may become worse if running or participating in sporting activities, and it is beneficial to rest and elevate the affected foot. It may be helpful to take anti-inflammatory medications which may partially reduce existing pain. If you have the symptoms of a heel spur, it is strongly suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can recommend the correct treatment options for you, which may include custom-made orthotics.

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. Kirk Sherris from Liberty Bay Foot & Ankle. 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, please feel free to contact our offices located in Poulsbo and Port Townsend, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

People who are interested in achieving their best performance in athletics are often aware of the impact wearing the right shoe can have. Research has indicated sprinters, runners, and joggers have toes that are strong. The big toe is considered to be one of the most important parts of the foot, and it is used in athletic movements. This part of the foot needs to be flexible as it strikes the ground with astounding force. There are specific exercises that can improve the strength of the big toe. These can include toe curls and calf raises with emphasis on the big toe. Range of motion can be improved while standing on a tennis or golf ball, in addition to massaging the sole of the foot. If you would like more information about the benefits of stretching the feet, please consult with a podiatrist.

Why Stretching Is Important for Your Feet

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Dr. Kirk Sherris from Liberty Bay Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first to determine if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

• Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
• Similar to the previous exercise, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
• Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
• Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising to ice and rest the foot. It is advised that you then see a podiatrist for help.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Poulsbo and Port Townsend, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Broken toes can range from simple cracks in the bone to more severe fractures that involve joint displacement or multiple bone fragments. These injuries often result from sudden trauma, such as dropping a heavy object on the foot or forcefully striking a hard surface. Common symptoms include sharp pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking, especially if pressure on the affected toe causes discomfort. A toe that appears crooked or shortened compared to its neighbors may indicate a displaced fracture or dislocation.  A podiatrist will typically perform a thorough foot exam and may use  X-rays to confirm the type and severity of the fracture. If the bone is misaligned or severely broken, surgery may be needed to restore proper toe position and prevent long-term complications. If you have broken a toe, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and suggested treatment options.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Kirk Sherris from Liberty Bay Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Poulsbo and Port Townsend, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.