February 2024

Sudden heel pain without swelling can stem from various underlying conditions, each presenting its own set of challenges. Bursitis, an inflammation of the bursa sacs that cushion the heel, can cause sharp pain and tenderness, especially with movement or pressure. Similarly, heel neuritis, or Baxter's neuritis, involves irritation or compression of the nerves around the heel. This condition results in shooting or burning pain that is often worsened by walking or standing. Additionally, plantar fasciitis, characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia ligament, commonly triggers stabbing pain in the heel, particularly during the first steps after waking or prolonged periods of rest. These conditions can arise due to overuse, improper footwear, biomechanical issues, or sudden trauma to the heel. If you have developed heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer appropriate treatment measures.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Dr. Eugenio Rivera of Calo Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Bellaire, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Children's feet require vigilant care during their formative years, due to their soft and pliable nature. Encouraging toddlers to walk barefoot indoors fosters natural foot growth and toe dexterity. It is essential to regularly assess shoe fit, aiming for about half an inch of growing room between the longest toe and the tip of the shoe. Experts suggest measuring their feet and adjusting shoe size every three to six months to accommodate growth. While common walking patterns, such as flat feet or in-toeing, typically resolve on their own, it is suggested you consult a podiatrist if your child experiences persistent issues or discomfort. Avoid hand me down shoes to ensure proper support and fit tailored to each child's unique foot structure. Watch for signs such as frequent tripping, pain, or reluctance to participate in activities, as they may indicate underlying foot concerns that require medical attention. For guidance on your child's foot development or to address any emerging concerns, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a thorough exam and appropriate treatment as needed.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Dr. Eugenio Rivera of Calo Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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

Seniors are at a heightened risk of falling due to various factors, including age-related changes in balance, vision, and muscle strength. Additionally, underlying health conditions, medications, and environmental hazards contribute to the risk of falls among older adults. Vision impairments, such as cataracts or glaucoma, can affect depth perception and increase the likelihood of tripping or misjudging distances. Muscle weakness and joint stiffness make it more challenging to maintain balance and stability while walking or standing. Furthermore, medications that cause dizziness or drowsiness further compromise seniors' ability to navigate their surroundings safely. Environmental factors like cluttered walkways, slippery floors, and inadequate lighting also pose significant fall risks. To prevent falls, seniors can take proactive measures such as participating in regular exercise to improve strength and balance and modifying home environments to eliminate hazards. Falling can impact the feet, possibly compromising daily activities. If you are interested in learning about additional fall prevention strategies, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can provide you with the knowledge you are seeking.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Dr. Eugenio Rivera from Calo Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

Sever's disease, despite its name, is not an illness, but a common heel bone disorder that affects children during their growth spurts. Also known as calcaneal apophysitis, this condition occurs when the heel's growth plate experiences inflammation due to repetitive stress and tension. Typically afflicting children aged 8 to 14, Sever's disease emerges as the bones grow faster than the tendons, leading to strain on the heel's growth plate. Young athletes engaged in high-impact sports, such as soccer, basketball, and gymnastics, are particularly susceptible. The symptoms can include heel pain, swelling, and discomfort, which can be worse during physical activities. Recognizing Sever's disease is important, as prompt intervention can alleviate symptoms and prevent long-term complications. If your child has heel pain, and frequently participates in sporting activities, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat this condition.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Dr. Eugenio Rivera from Calo Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Bellaire, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.