Heel pain after running is a common complaint among runners and can stem from various foot conditions. Plantar fasciitis, one of the leading causes of heel pain after running, occurs when the thick tissue on the bottom of the foot becomes strained from repetitive impact. Other potential sources of heel pain are Achilles tendinitis, stress fractures, or heel spurs, which may develop due to excessive strain on the heel. Running on hard surfaces, wearing improper footwear, or sudden increases in training intensity can contribute to the problem. Symptoms include sharp pain in the heel, stiffness in the ankle, and tenderness along the arch or Achilles tendon. If left untreated, the heel pain can worsen, making daily activities like standing and walking more difficult. A podiatrist can evaluate the underlying cause of heel pain, recommend treatment to relieve discomfort, and offer guidance on proper footwear and running techniques to reduce strain on the feet. If you experience heel pain after running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Daniel Bell, DPM of Florida. 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 Pembroke Pines and Plantation, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Laser treatment for fungal toenails is an advanced therapy that uses focused light to target and destroy fungal infections under the nail. The procedure is non-invasive, meaning there is no need for cuts or incisions, making it a more comfortable alternative to traditional treatments. It is also largely painless, with most patients reporting only mild warmth or slight discomfort during the session. One of the key benefits of laser treatment is that it carries little to no risk of side effects, unlike some oral medications that can cause adverse reactions. However, the success of the treatment depends largely on the severity of the infection. In mild cases, a single session may be enough, but more extensive infections could require multiple treatments to achieve optimal results. If you have toenail fungus and are considering this form of treatment, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist to assess your specific condition and determine the most appropriate course of action.

Laser treatment can be an effective way to get rid of toenail fungus. If you have any questions about laser treatment, consult with Daniel Bell, DPM from Florida. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment for fungal nails.

What Are Toenail Fungal Infections?

Onychomycosis, or fungal infection of the nail, is a relatively common and non-serious condition. Around 10 percent of U.S. citizens are afflicted with fungal nails. Common forms of fungus that infect the nail include dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds.

Symptoms of Toenail Fungal Infections Include:

• Nail thickening
• Brittleness of the nail
• Discoloration of the nail

Diagnosis for Fungal Nails

Fungal infections are diagnosed by fungal culture and microscopy. This will rule out any other conditions such as nail trauma, psoriasis, lichen planus, and onychogryphosis.

What Is Laser Treatment?

Laser treatment is a non-invasive, safe, quick, and painless procedure that uses the heat from a laser to kill fungus in the nail. Each infected nail is targeted with a laser for several minutes. The treatment is usually utilized several different times over a select period. During this time, a podiatrist will keep an eye on the infection.

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

Friction blisters form when repeated rubbing irritates the skin, causing fluid to collect under the surface. They are common on the feet, especially during activities like walking, running, or wearing tight shoes. The most frequent culprits are poorly fitting footwear, moisture, and prolonged activity. Prevention is key. Wear shoes that fit properly and allow room for your toes. Moisture-wicking socks keep your feet dry, reducing friction. Consider double-layered socks or applying blister prevention products like moleskin or anti-friction balms. Keep your shoes in good condition, and ensure they are broken in before extended wear. If blisters persist, worsen, or show signs of infection like redness, swelling, or pus, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist. This type of doctor can provide treatment and advice to keep your feet healthy and pain-free.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Daniel Bell, DPM of Florida. Our doctor 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 office located in Pembroke Pines and Plantation, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Walking barefoot is a natural activity that can have numerous benefits for children. When kids walk without shoes, they allow their feet to develop and strengthen naturally. The muscles and ligaments in the feet work more effectively when they are not restricted by footwear, promoting better balance and coordination. Barefoot walking also helps improve posture as it encourages children to align their bodies properly. Furthermore, walking barefoot allows children to connect with their environment, providing sensory feedback that can stimulate cognitive and emotional development. It also promotes the proper formation of the arches in the feet, reducing the risk of developing issues such as flat feet. In addition, barefoot walking can help increase circulation and improve the flexibility of the feet. While it is important to be mindful of potential hazards, allowing kids to walk barefoot at home or in safe outdoor spaces can contribute positively to their physical and overall development. If your child has foot pain for any reason, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and address any concern you may have about barefoot walking.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Daniel Bell, DPM of Florida. 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 Pembroke Pines and Plantation, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Morton's neuroma is a condition that affects the nerves in the foot, typically between the third and fourth toes. It occurs when the tissue around a nerve thickens, leading to pain, numbness, or a sensation of a lump in the affected area. Symptoms may worsen when wearing tight shoes or high heels, as the pressure on the foot increases. Common causes include repetitive stress or irritation to the foot, from high-impact activities, poorly fitted footwear, or foot abnormalities like flat feet or high arches. To diagnose Morton's neuroma, a podiatrist will typically perform a physical examination, checking for tenderness or swelling between the toes. Imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or MRI scan, may also be used to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions. If you have pain in this area of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Daniel Bell, DPM of Florida. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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