Items filtered by date: June 2025

Heel pad syndrome, also known as fat pad atrophy, occurs when the thick layer of fatty tissue beneath the heel thins out, reducing its ability to absorb shock. This can lead to deep, aching heel pain that worsens with prolonged standing or walking. Common causes of heel pad syndrome include age-related degeneration, obesity, repetitive impact activities, wearing improper footwear, and prior heel injuries. People who walk barefoot on hard surfaces may place additional stress on the heel, increasing the risk of pain. A podiatrist can evaluate  heel pad function and recommend appropriate treatment to relieve pressure on the heel. Supportive orthotics and well-cushioned footwear can help reduce discomfort during daily activities. In addition, specific exercises, such as calf stretches, heel raises, and ankle range-of-motion movements, are often used to improve foot control and reduce stress on the heel.  If you are suffering from heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and proper treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Patrice Antero, DPM of Tuscany 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 contact our office located in Tuscaloosa, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Congenital foot conditions are structural or functional abnormalities present at birth that affect the shape or movement of a baby’s feet. One of the most recognized conditions is club foot, where the foot is twisted inward and downward, making it difficult to walk if untreated. These conditions may result from genetic factors, developmental issues during pregnancy, or environmental influences. Early detection is essential for effective treatment and to prevent long-term complications. A podiatrist can play an important role in diagnosing congenital foot conditions, recommending early interventions, such as stretching, casting, or bracing, and monitoring progress throughout childhood. If your child has been born with a foot condition, it is suggested that you include a podiatrist on your healthcare team.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Patrice Antero, DPM of Tuscany Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Tuscaloosa, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.