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Types of Heel Spurs

Tuesday, 09 December 2025

Heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the heel bone due to long-term strain on foot muscles and ligaments. They often form where the plantar fascia connects to the heel, causing discomfort and inflammation. Common causes include repetitive stress, wearing improper footwear, and prolonged standing. Risk factors such as flat feet, obesity, and age can increase the likelihood of developing them. There are two main types. Plantar heel spurs located under the heel and dorsal heel spurs form on the back near the Achilles tendon. Symptoms include sharp pain, tenderness, or stiffness. A podiatrist can diagnose heel spurs through an examination and imaging tests, and provide treatments that reduce pain and improve mobility. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Dr. Eugenio Rivera from Calo Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

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

Why Are My Toenails So Thick?

Tuesday, 02 December 2025

Thick toenails are caused by a fungus that causes the toenails to become discolored, thickened, and brittle. The nails may appear yellow, white, or even brown, and can sometimes separate from the nail bed. This infection, known as onychomycosis, typically involves fungi that thrive in warm, damp environments, such as sweaty shoes or communal areas like swimming pools. Poor foot hygiene, a weakened immune system, or diabetes can also increase the risk of developing onychomycosis. Symptoms include thickened, misshapen nails, crumbling edges, and a foul odor. If left untreated, the infection can worsen, sometimes leading to pain and difficulty walking. A podiatrist is trained to diagnose and treat toenail fungus effectively. Treatments may include antifungal medications, topical solutions, or, in severe cases, nail removal. Your podiatrist will assess the severity of the condition and recommend the best course of treatment. If you have symptoms of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment, which may include prescribed medication.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Eugenio Rivera of Calo Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

Warped or oddly shaped nails
Yellowish nails
Loose/separated nail
Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Bellaire, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

It's Time for Beautiful Feet

Sunday, 30 November 2025

You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.

Understanding Types of Pronation

Tuesday, 25 November 2025

Pronation is the natural inward rolling motion of the foot during walking or running, which allows the arch to absorb shock and distribute body weight efficiently. There are three main types of pronation that influence how pressure moves through the foot. Neutral pronation is when the foot rolls inward slightly, helping to maintain balance and reducing stress on the ankles and knees. Overpronation happens when the foot rolls inward excessively, often in people with low arches or flat feet, which can lead to heel, arch, or ankle pain. Underpronation, or supination, occurs when the foot rolls outward, placing stress on the outer edge of the foot and increasing the risk of ankle sprains or heel pain. A podiatrist can evaluate your gait, foot posture, and arch type to determine your pronation pattern and recommend corrective devices, supportive footwear, or, in severe cases, surgery. If you experience foot pain or gait problems, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Eugenio Rivera from Calo Foot & Ankle Specialists. 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 our office located in Bellaire, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Managing Pain From Chronic Ankle Instability

Tuesday, 18 November 2025

Chronic ankle instability develops when repeated sprains or ligament injuries weaken the ankle over time. This condition often causes persistent pain, swelling, and a sense that the ankle might give way, especially on uneven ground. Ongoing instability can also lead to joint inflammation and early arthritis, if not properly treated. A podiatrist can evaluate the extent of damage through physical examination and imaging to determine the best care plan. Treatment may include balance training, strengthening exercises, and custom orthotics to improve stability and alignment. In more advanced cases, minimally invasive procedures may be needed to repair or tighten stretched ligaments. With early intervention and consistent rehabilitation, most patients can regain strength and confidence in their ankle. For lasting pain relief and better mobility, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist experienced in treating chronic ankle instability for expert advice and appropriate treatment.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. Eugenio Rivera from Calo Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
Ankle sprains
Broken ankles
Achilles tendinitis
Achilles tendon rupture
Stress fractures
Tarsal tunnel syndrome
Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

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