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Heel Lumps and What Causes Them

A lump on the heel is often linked to a condition known as Haglund’s deformity, where a bony prominence develops at the back of the heel bone. This extra bone growth can irritate the Achilles tendon and the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that normally reduces friction. This can lead to swelling, redness, and localized pain. Contributing causes may include tight calf muscles that increase tension on the tendon, genetic factors like high arches that shift the heel bone backward, or footwear with a stiff backs like pumps, ice skates, or high heels that create repeated friction. A podiatrist can perform an exam to determine if the heel lump is related to bone spurs, bursitis, or tendon irritation. Treatment options include stretching exercises, changes in footwear, medication, and surgery, in persistent cases. If you notice the formation of a lump on the heel, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Dr. Mark Gagnon of Advanced Podiatry. 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 feel free to contact one of our offices located in Crestwood, Orland Park, and Summit, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Heel Pain

How the Foot and Ankle Work Together in Dance

The foot and ankle bones work in harmony to create balance, stability, and graceful movement while dancing. Each step involves coordinated motion through stages of flexion, extension, and rotation supported by muscles and tendons that control strength and precision. Dancers rely heavily on these structures, making them prone to injuries such as sprains, tendonitis, and stress fractures from repetitive strain or overuse. Proper foot alignment and strength are essential for safe and fluid motion. A podiatrist can assess foot mechanics, treat injuries, and recommend exercises or custom orthotics to enhance performance and prevent future issues. If pain or instability is affecting your dance practice, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on effective dance injury prevention tips.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Mark Gagnon from Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

  • Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
  • In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Crestwood, Orland Park, and Summit, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Biomechanics in Podiatry

Choosing the Right Running Shoes for Every Distance

Selecting the proper running shoes is essential for performance and injury prevention. For 5K races and shorter distances, lightweight shoes with responsive cushioning offer speed and comfort. For 10K to half marathons, choose shoes with balanced support and cushioning for endurance. Marathon and ultra-distance runners benefit from maximum cushioning and stability to handle long hours of impact. Additionally, trail running shoes should provide traction, durability, and protection for uneven terrain. A podiatrist can analyze your gait, foot structure, and running style to recommend the best shoe type for your needs. If you have developed a foot or ankle injury from wearing the wrong running shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist. This type of doctor can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on choosing the right shoes for your running needs.

You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, contact Dr. Mark Gagnon from Advanced Podiatry. 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

Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.

Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe

  • Make sure you have a thumb’s width of wiggle room between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
  • There should be little to no slipping at the heel
  • Don’t assume your size in one shoe brand will be your size in another
  • Do not lace up your shoes too tightly
  • Walk around in the store with your new shoes before you buy them

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Crestwood, Orland Park, and Summit, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Walking Shoes vs. Running Shoes

Symptoms and Causes of Flat Feet

Flat feet, also known as pes planus, occur when the arches of the feet collapse and allow the entire sole to touch the ground. This condition can be present at birth or develop later in life due to aging, injury, obesity, or chronic conditions such as arthritis. Many people with flat feet experience no symptoms, but others may develop pain in the midfoot, arch, or inner ankle, often made worse by activity. Swelling along the inside of the foot or ankle is common, and over time the instability can affect gait and make standing on the toes difficult. Flat feet are often linked to overpronation, where the foot rolls inward excessively, placing strain on the tendons and ligaments of the foot and ankle. A podiatrist can perform a thorough exam, order imaging, if needed, and recommend treatment options that may include orthotics or, in severe cases, surgery. If you are suffering from foot or ankle pain related to flat feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for relief and management tips.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Mark Gagnon from Advanced Podiatry. 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 offices located in Crestwood, Orland Park, and Summit, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Flatfoot

Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

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