High heels may look stylish, but they can take a toll on women’s feet and ankles. Wearing them shifts body weight forward, putting extra pressure on the toes and ball of the foot. This can lead to problems like bunions, ankle sprains from twisting, and even joint issues over time like osteoarthritis. High heels can also affect how the feet and ankles move, altering one's walking pattern, posture, and balance. These changes may extend to the knees and hips, causing pain and stiffness. Long-term wear increases the risk of musculoskeletal pain and balance issues, especially in uneven or slippery conditions. Limiting heel height, choosing supportive designs, and giving your feet regular breaks can help. If you experience ongoing pain or foot problems from wearing high heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for expert advice and treatment.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from APEX Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors 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 offices located in Fort Myers, Cypress Cove, Shellpoint, Naples, and Carlisle, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Capsulitis of the foot is an inflammation of the ligament-like capsule surrounding a joint, most commonly affecting the second toe at the ball of the foot. It occurs when excessive pressure or stress causes irritation, often due to improper footwear, abnormal foot mechanics, or activities that involve repetitive forefoot impact. People with high arches, flat feet, or a second toe longer than the big toe are more prone to developing capsulitis. Symptoms include pain under the ball of the foot, swelling, and a sensation of walking on a marble. The second toe may also appear elevated or shift out of alignment. Early treatment is important and includes wearing supportive footwear and avoiding high-impact activities. Surgery is rarely needed to correct the issue. If you have symptoms of capsulitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from APEX Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors 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 our offices located in Fort Myers, Cypress Cove, Shellpoint, Naples, and Carlisle, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs when the tibial nerve, which runs through the tarsal tunnel, becomes compressed or irritated. The tarsal tunnel is a narrow space located on the inner side of the ankle, formed by bone and soft tissues. It allows nerves, blood vessels, and tendons to pass from the leg to the foot. When the tibial nerve is compressed in this confined space, it can cause sharp or burning pain, numbness, or tingling that radiates into the sole of the foot. Symptoms often worsen with activity or later in the day. Common causes of tarsal tunnel syndrome include flat feet or plantar fasciitis, which increase strain on the inner ankle structures. Repetitive movement, prolonged standing, or extra body weight may also contribute to the problem. Diagnosis typically involves a physical exam, nerve conduction tests, and imaging studies to pinpoint the issue. If you are experiencing ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact one of our podiatrists of APEX Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Myers, Cypress Cove, Shellpoint, Naples, and Carlisle, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Achilles tendon injuries are uncommon in pediatric and adolescent populations but can require surgery in severe cases, such as complete ruptures or deep lacerations. These injuries can occur during sports or accidents, especially in active teens, although young tendons are typically resilient and heal well with conservative care. Surgery is usually reserved for complex or complete tears that cannot heal adequately on their own. Despite being rare, surgical repair generally has positive outcomes for young patients, with most regaining full function and mobility following rehabilitation. Recovery includes targeted exercises to restore strength, flexibility, and balance, reducing the risk of re-injury. If your child has incurred an Achilles tendon injury, it is strongly suggested that you have it evaluated by a podiatrist to determine the best course of action and ensure a safe, effective return to activity for the growing foot and tendon structure.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of APEX Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Myers, Cypress Cove, Shellpoint, Naples, and Carlisle, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Ingrown toenails, a common foot issue, occur when the nail's edge grows into the surrounding skin, leading to redness, swelling, and pain. This condition often affects the big toe and can result from improper nail trimming, wearing tight footwear, or injury. In cases where pain intensifies, or infection signs like pus and increased swelling appear, it is wise to consult a podiatrist. A podiatrist can assess the severity and recommend treatments based on individual needs. They may lift the nail to relieve pressure, or in more severe cases, remove part of the nail to prevent further issues. They might also suggest preventive measures, such as proper nail-cutting techniques, footwear advice, and orthotics if foot structure contributes to the problem. If you suffer from an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you get prompt podiatric care to alleviate pain and help prevent recurring ingrown nails and potential infections.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of APEX Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Myers, Cypress Cove, Shellpoint, Naples, and Carlisle, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.