Heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the underside of the heel bone, often forming in response to long-term strain on foot muscles and ligaments. They can be caused by weakened muscles that fail to properly support the foot, joint stiffness that alters walking patterns, and repeated forced impact from walking or standing on hard floors. These factors place extra stress on the heel, leading to inflammation and pain. A podiatrist can diagnose heel spurs through examination and imaging, then recommend treatments like custom orthotics, stretching exercises, and supportive footwear. If heel pain is affecting your daily life, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat heel spurs.

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 one of our podiatrists from Barry University Foot and Ankle Institute. Our doctors 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 Miami, North Miami Beach, Miami Beach, and Tamarac, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

When choosing high heels, the most important measurement is the heel-to-ball length, not the overall foot size. This ensures proper alignment, allowing the ball of the foot to rest where the shoe bends. A poor fit in this area can cause instability, discomfort, and long-term issues. To improve stability, select heels with a pitch that remains perpendicular to the ground and a base that supports balance. Proper fit and posture reduce strain on the feet and lower legs. A podiatrist can assess your foot structure and recommend strategies or custom inserts to improve comfort in high heels. If you have developed a foot or ankle injury from frequently wearing high heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot injuries, and guide you how to choose high heels that properly fit your foot.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of one of our podiatrists from Barry University Foot and Ankle Institute. Our doctors will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Miami, North Miami Beach, Miami Beach, and Tamarac, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout is caused by a buildup of uric acid in the blood, which forms sharp crystals in the joints and leads to sudden pain, swelling, redness, and warmth. Flare-ups of gout often take place in the big toe. They can make walking difficult and may occur repeatedly, causing damage to joints in the feet and ankles, if left untreated. A podiatrist can diagnose gout by examining the affected area and using imaging or lab tests to rule out other problems, like fractures or other types of arthritis. Gout in the feet can lead to long-term joint damage, tissue changes and deformities. Management of gout includes medication to reduce inflammation and guidance on preventing further flare-ups. A podiatrist can also assess footwear and biomechanics to reduce pressure on affected joints and help preserve foot function.  If you have frequent toe or ankle pain caused by gout, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist for management of this painful condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Barry University Foot and Ankle Institute. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Miami, North Miami Beach, Miami Beach, and Tamarac, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A bunion is more than a bump on the side of the foot. It forms when the joint at the base of the big toe gradually shifts out of alignment, causing the toe to angle inward. This can lead to pain, swelling, and difficulty finding comfortable shoes. Bunions often develop over time and may be influenced by inherited foot structure, poor footwear choices, or medical conditions such as arthritis. Ignoring a bunion may cause the symptoms to worsen. Over time, it can limit mobility and change the way a person walks. Conservative measures such as padded inserts, toe spacers, and proper footwear may offer relief. When those options fail, a podiatrist may recommend surgery to realign the joint and restore function. If your big toe joint feels sore, stiff, or visibly out of place, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Barry University Foot and Ankle Institute. Our doctors 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 our offices located in Miami, North Miami Beach, Miami Beach, and Tamarac, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.