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Heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the underside of the heel bone due to long-term stress and strain on the foot. They are often associated with plantar fascia irritation, where the connective tissue that supports the arch becomes inflamed. Over time, the body responds by depositing calcium, leading to the formation of a spur. While not all heel spurs cause pain, their presence can contribute to discomfort during daily movement.

Symptoms of heel spurs vary depending on severity and activity level. Many individuals describe a sharp, stabbing pain in the heel, especially with the first steps in the morning. Others report a dull ache that worsens after prolonged standing or walking. Swelling, tenderness, and localized inflammation may also be present. Risk factors include repetitive impact, poor foot mechanics, and wearing unsupportive footwear. Individuals who spend long hours on their feet are more likely to experience these symptoms.

The causes of heel spurs are typically linked to repetitive stress and strain. Activities such as running, walking on hard surfaces, or standing for extended periods of time can place continuous pressure on the heel. Wearing improper footwear that lacks arch support can increase tension on the plantar fascia. Additional risk factors include excess body weight, tight calf muscles, and flat feet or high arches. These conditions place extra stress on the heel and contribute to spur formation.

The key takeaway is that heel spurs develop over time due to repeated strain, but early care can reduce pain and prevent progression. Wearing supportive shoes, stretching, and activity modification play a major role in managing symptoms. Recognizing the warning signs allows for timely intervention and better outcomes. Heel pain is uncomfortable, and may affect daily activities. If this applies to you, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat heel spurs.

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 Brian D. Jackson, DPM from Neuhaus Foot and Ankle. 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 one of our offices located in Columbia and Pulaski, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The forefoot carries a share of the body’s weight and helps provide balance with every step. It contains the toes, five long metatarsal bones, and the joints at the ball of the foot. Forefoot pain can feel sharp, burning, or aching. It can also cause swelling, numbness, or the feeling that a stone is trapped inside the shoe. Discomfort may be worse when walking, running, or pushing off the toes. Because several bones, joints, and nerves sit close together in this area, the source of pain is not always easy to identify.

Several problems can lead to pain in the front of the foot. Excess pressure on the ball of the foot can irritate the bones and soft tissue. Bunions, hammertoes, and arthritis can change how weight moves across the forefoot. A stress fracture can also cause focused pain and swelling. Morton’s neuroma develops when tissue around a nerve between the toes becomes thick and irritated. It can produce burning pain or numbness that spreads into the toes. Tight shoes, high heels, and shoes that lack proper support can increase forefoot pressure. Sports, dancing, and repeated impact can contribute to discomfort.

A podiatrist can examine the foot and identify where the pain begins. The evaluation includes checking joint movement, tender areas, and the way the patient stands or walks. X-rays or other imaging tests can help identify fractures, arthritis, and other problems inside the foot. Treatment depends on the cause, location, and severity of the pain. A podiatrist can provide padding, custom orthotics, or guidance on choosing properly fitting shoes. Other office-based treatments can reduce pressure or address irritated tissue. Early care can help prevent forefoot pain from worsening and make standing or walking more comfortable. If you have forefoot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Brian D. Jackson, DPM from Neuhaus Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Hammertoe occurs when one or more toes bend into an abnormal position, causing the toe to look raised at the middle joint. The second, third, and fourth toes are frequently affected. This change can cause discomfort in the front of the foot and irritation where the bent toe rubs against a shoe. A thickened area of skin called a callus can also develop from repeated pressure. Hammertoe can affect how the foot moves and places extra pressure on parts of the foot when walking. Several factors can contribute to hammertoe, including changes in toe muscle strength, limited ankle movement, and changes in foot mechanics.

The muscles that move the toes help maintain their normal position. When the muscles that straighten the toes are stronger than the muscles that bend them, an imbalance can develop. This imbalance has been linked with the amount of toe bending seen in hammertoe. Limited upward ankle movement can also be associated with the condition. Reduced movement in another foot joint can contribute as well. These factors can affect how the foot moves and how pressure is placed across the toes. A podiatrist can examine toe position, muscle function, and areas of pressure to better understand the factors affecting a patient.

Treatment depends on the flexibility of the toe, the amount of discomfort, and how the condition affects daily activity. A podiatrist can assess the deformity and recommend appropriate treatment based on the findings. Care can include changes to footwear, treatment for painful calluses, or other measures designed to reduce pressure on the affected toe. A podiatrist can also assess related foot and ankle movement to determine whether these factors are contributing to the condition. If you have developed a hammertoe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and management tips. 

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Brian D. Jackson, DPM from Neuhaus Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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

A broken pinky toe is a common foot injury that involves a fracture in the smallest toe. Despite its size, the pinky toe plays an important role in balance and weight distribution when walking. A fracture can occur from direct trauma or sudden impact and may range from a small crack to a more severe break. Because this injury can affect daily movement, understanding its definition and causes helps support timely care and proper healing.

Symptoms of a broken pinky toe often appear quickly after injury. Pain is usually immediate and may worsen with pressure or walking. Swelling and bruising are common, and the skin around the toe may appear discolored. In some cases, the toe may look crooked or out of alignment, which can indicate a more serious fracture. Tenderness to touch and difficulty wearing shoes are also frequent signs. These symptoms may limit mobility and should not be ignored.

The most common causes of a broken pinky toe involve accidental impact. Dropping a heavy object on the foot can create enough force to fracture the bone. Stubbing the toe against furniture or walls is another frequent cause. Kicking a hard object, whether during sports or daily activity, can also lead to injury. These incidents often occur unexpectedly and may result in immediate pain and visible changes in the toe.

Risk factors for this injury include engaging in physical activities without protective footwear, walking barefoot in unsafe environments, and having reduced awareness of surroundings. Individuals with weakened bones or balance issues may also face higher risk. Prompt attention can help prevent complications and support proper alignment during healing. If you have a broken pinky toe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Brian D. Jackson, DPM from Neuhaus Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Columbia and Pulaski, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Webbed toes, medically known as syndactyly, refer to a condition in which two or more toes are joined together by soft tissue. This occurs when toe separation is incomplete during fetal development. The condition can vary in severity and may involve only skin or include other structures like bones, blood vessels, muscles, and nerves. While many cases are harmless, some individuals experience discomfort depending on the degree of fusion and how the toes function during walking or standing.

Symptoms of webbed toes depend on the type and severity of the condition. Some individuals have no pain and only notice the appearance, while others may experience pressure, irritation, or difficulty fitting into shoes. Risk factors are often genetic, as syndactyly can run in families. Down syndrome is a common factor. There are three primary types, including simple, complex, and complicated forms. Simple syndactyly involves only soft tissue, while complex cases include bone involvement, and complicated cases may affect nail structure or alignment.

Proper footwear plays an important role in managing this condition. Shoes with a wide toe box help reduce pressure and allow the toes to rest in a natural position. Tight or narrow shoes can increase friction and lead to irritation or callus formation. In some cases, medical correction may be considered, especially if the condition interferes with function or causes persistent discomfort. Surgical separation is often performed during childhood but may also be an option later in life depending on individual needs.

The key takeaway is that webbed toes are often manageable with the right support and care. Understanding the type and severity helps guide treatment decisions and improve comfort. Early evaluation ensures proper foot development and long-term foot health. If you have webbed toes that are causing discomfort, it is suggested you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Brian D. Jackson, DPM of Neuhaus Foot and Ankle. 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 one of our offices located in Columbia and Pulaski, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.