Plantar warts are small, rough growths that appear on the soles of the feet. They are caused by an infection with the human papillomavirus, commonly known as HPV. This virus enters the skin through tiny cuts or breaks, causing the skin to grow abnormally. Plantar warts are typically firm, flat, and may have a rough surface with black dots in the center, which are blood vessels. The condition is highly contagious and can spread through direct contact with an infected surface, such as public showers or swimming pools. People with weakened immune systems, children, and those with frequent barefoot contact in communal areas are more likely to develop plantar warts. The warts can become uncomfortable, especially when pressure is applied from walking or standing for long periods. If you have developed a plantar wart, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact the practitioners from Foot Care Institute. Our practitioners will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Windsor, ON . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

High heels are fashionable but can worsen hallux valgus, commonly known as bunions. These shoes often have narrow toe boxes that squeeze the toes, forcing the big toe out of alignment and aggravating the bony bump at its base. The elevated heel shifts body weight forward, increasing pressure on the forefoot and the bunion, leading to inflammation and discomfort. High heels also alter the natural mechanics of walking, limiting toe movement and stressing the joints, which can accelerate the progression of hallux valgus. For those already experiencing bunion pain, high heels amplify friction and irritation, causing swelling and redness that make walking uncomfortable. Opting for shoes with a wider toe box and a lower heel height can help minimize pain while preserving foot health. If you have developed a bunion from wearing high heels, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for relief options and guidance on choosing shoes that will protect against further foot damage.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact the practitioners from Foot Care Institute. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Windsor, ON . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Diabetes can significantly affect foot health by damaging nerves and blood vessels, which increases the risk of infections and ulcers. Nerve damage, known as peripheral neuropathy, can cause numbness, tingling, or pain, reducing the ability to sense injuries or temperature changes. Blood vessel damage can impair healing, leaving minor injuries like cuts or blisters susceptible to infection. Daily foot checks for diabetics are essential to identify blisters, cuts, or signs of redness that may indicate the onset of complications. Proper foot care includes washing feet daily with warm water, drying them thoroughly, especially between the toes, and applying moisturizer to prevent dry skin. Wearing properly fitted shoes and avoiding walking barefoot, even indoors, reduces the risk of injury. A podiatrist can assess your feet for signs of neuropathy or poor circulation, provide treatment for wounds, and recommend protective footwear to prevent future issues. If you have foot problems related to diabetes, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact the practitioners from Foot Care Institute. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Windsor, ON . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Heel fat pad syndrome, also known as fat pad atrophy, occurs when the natural cushioning under the heel shrinks or loses its elasticity. It leads to reduced shock absorption and increased heel pain. The degeneration of the heel fat pad often results from prolonged pressure or repetitive high-impact activities, such as running or jumping. Heel fat pad atrophy is commonly mistaken for plantar fasciitis, though each condition has distinct causes and treatments. Age, obesity, and certain medical conditions can increase the risk, as these factors contribute to fat pad thinning and weakened tissue integrity. Biomechanical issues, like improper arch alignment or gait imbalance, also can place undue strain on the heel pad. A podiatrist can conduct a thorough exam, which may include digital imaging to confirm the diagnosis and evaluate the extent of fat pad thinning. Treatment often includes custom orthotics and tailored exercises to strengthen foot mechanics and redistribute pressure on the heel. If you have constant or recurring heel pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact the practitioners of Foot Care Institute. Our practitioners 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 Windsor, ON . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.