Haglund's deformity is a bony enlargement on the back of the heel bone, where the Achilles tendon attaches. This condition can cause significant discomfort and irritation, particularly where the heel rubs against the shoe. Symptoms typically include pain and swelling at the back of the heel, and in severe cases, the area may become red and tender. The primary cause of Haglund's deformity is often linked to wearing tight or rigid shoes, which can increase the pressure on the heel. Structural abnormalities in the foot or abnormal walking patterns may also contribute. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing further irritation, although in some cases surgery may be needed. Conservative options include wearing well-fitted, cushioned shoes, using heel pads or orthotic inserts to reduce pressure, and performing stretching exercises for the Achilles tendon. For a more precise diagnosis and tailored treatment plan, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot Doctors of Utica. Our doctors 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 offices located in Herkimer, and New Hartford, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Routine foot care is essential for seniors, as they are more prone to foot problems due to age-related changes in circulation, skin, and joint health. Ignoring aches, pains, or minor issues can lead to complications, potentially affecting mobility and overall quality of life. Seniors should regularly check their feet for signs of dryness, cracks, or sores, especially if they have conditions like diabetes, which can increase the risk of infection. Keeping feet clean, moisturized, and toenails properly trimmed can prevent discomfort and reduce the chance of developing serious issues. Foot pain may signal underlying problems like arthritis, bunions, or poor circulation. Untreated, these can worsen and interfere with walking or standing. If you are a senior and have foot problems, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist at the first sign of discomfort to help prevent minor issues from becoming major.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot Doctors of Utica. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Herkimer, and New Hartford, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A medial malleolus fracture is a specific type of broken ankle. The medial malleolus is the bony prominence on the inner side of your ankle, part of the tibia, or shinbone. When this bone becomes fractured it often occurs due to a twist, fall, or direct impact to the ankle. Symptoms typically include sharp pain on the inside of the ankle, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot. Treatment for this type of fracture depends on the severity of the break. For minor fractures where the bone is still aligned, a podiatrist might immobilize the ankle in a cast or boot to allow it to heal. However, if the fracture is displaced, surgery might be necessary to realign and stabilize the bone with screws or plates. If you have broken any part of your ankle, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot Doctors of Utica. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
•  Swelling around the area
•  Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Herkimer, and New Hartford, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot blisters are small, fluid-filled pockets that form on the skin due to friction, pressure, or irritation. They commonly occur while wearing ill-fitting shoes, during extended periods of walking or running, or when feet are exposed to moisture, which softens the skin and increases the risk of blistering. Symptoms include a raised, fluid-filled bump that can be painful when pressed or irritated. The skin surrounding the blister may appear red and inflamed. To prevent blisters, wear properly fitting shoes, and moisture-wicking socks, and consider applying blister prevention tape to high-friction areas. Keep your feet dry and change socks regularly if they become wet. If a blister forms, avoid popping it to reduce the risk of infection. Instead, cover it with a clean bandage and allow it to heal naturally. If you have a blister that is particularly painful or large, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for treatment.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot Doctors of Utica. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Herkimer, and New Hartford, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.