Heel pain is not always caused by overuse or injury. In some cases, it may be a sign of ankylosing spondylitis, a chronic inflammatory disease classified as a type of arthritis. This condition leads to enthesitis, which is inflammation at the points where tendons and ligaments attach to bone. In the foot, the most commonly affected areas include the Achilles tendon and the plantar fascia, both of which play a major role in movement and support.

Symptoms of inflammatory heel pain often differ from typical strain-related discomfort. Patients may notice persistent pain that is worse after rest and improves slightly with activity. The back of the heel may feel sore due to Achilles tendon involvement, while the underside of the heel may be tender from plantar fascia inflammation. Swelling and stiffness can make walking uncomfortable, especially during the early part of the day or after long periods of inactivity.

The causes of this condition are linked to immune system activity rather than physical stress alone. Ankylosing spondylitis triggers inflammation at tendon and ligament attachment sites, leading to pain and irritation. While the exact cause is not fully understood, genetic factors and immune responses play a significant role. Because the heel absorbs repeated pressure throughout the day, it is often one of the first areas where symptoms appear.

Risk factors include a family history of inflammatory arthritis, early adulthood onset, and ongoing joint stiffness. Identifying symptoms early allows for better management and improved outcomes. Supportive care and medical evaluation are key components of treatment. If you have heel pain or symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and effective relief and treatment solutions.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Daniel Mendoza, DPM of Nashville Podiatry. 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 feel free to contact our office located in Hendersonville, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetes can place the feet and lower legs at risk when nerve damage reduces feeling and poor circulation slows healing. A small cut, blister, or pressure spot can become a deep sore without causing much pain. Infection can then spread into tissue or bone, raising the risk of limb loss. Other warning signs include redness, swelling, and drainage. A change in foot shape or skin color also deserves prompt attention. Patients should not wait for pain before seeking care because reduced sensation can hide a serious problem.

Regular visits to a podiatrist are an important part of preventing these complications. A podiatrist can check blood flow, skin condition, and the ability to feel touch or temperature. The exam also identifies corns, calluses, and nail problems before they cause wounds. When a sore is present, the podiatrist can measure its depth and check for infection. Imaging can reveal bone damage or a hidden fracture. Treatment includes professional wound care, removal of damaged tissue, and pressure relief. Custom orthotics or special shoes can protect vulnerable areas. For severe problems, a podiatrist can coordinate advanced wound treatment or surgery with other medical specialists.

Early attention offers the best chance to protect the foot and lower leg. Regular examinations allow a podiatrist to monitor changes and adjust treatment before an injury becomes harder to heal. Patients should report new sores, warmth, or unusual odors promptly. They should also seek care for cracked skin, changes in nail color, or shoes that suddenly feel tight. A podiatrist can safely trim problem nails and treat thick calluses. Education about proper shoes and routine foot checks helps patients recognize concerns early. Working closely with a podiatrist can reduce infection, preserve mobility, and lower the risk of losing a limb. If you have foot complications from diabetes, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition. 

Limb salvage can be an effective way in preventing the need for limb amputation. If you have diabetes, cancer, or any other condition that could lead to foot amputation if left unchecked, consult with Daniel Mendoza, DPM from Nashville Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Limb Salvage?

Limb salvage is the attempt of saving a limb, such as the foot from amputation. Podiatrists also try to make sure that there is enough function in the foot after the salvage that it is still usable. Diabetes is the number one cause of non-traumatic amputations in the United States. Those with diabetes experience poor blood circulation, which prevents proper healing of an ulcer. If the ulcer is left uncheck, it could become infected, which could result in the need for amputation.

However, there are other causes as well, such as cancer and traumatic injury. Links between higher mortality rates and amputation have been found. This translates into higher healthcare costs, and a reduced quality of life and mobility for amputees. Podiatrists have attempted to increase the prevalence of limb salvage in an attempt to solve these issues.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Limb salvage teams have grown in recent years that utilize a number of different treatments to save the infected limb. This includes podiatrists that specialize in wound care, rehabilitation, orthotics, and surgery. Through a combination of these methods, limb salvage has been found to be an effective treatment for infected limbs, and as an alternative to amputation. Podiatrists will first evaluate the potential for limb salvage and determine if the limb can be saved or must be amputated. 

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

Children's feet change as they grow, and some changes can lead to temporary but painful conditions. One of the most common causes of heel pain in active children is Sever's disease, also called calcaneal apophysitis. Despite its name, it is not an illness or infection. Instead, it develops when the growth area at the back of the heel becomes irritated during periods of rapid growth. This condition is most often seen in children and teenagers who participate in sports that involve running or jumping. Common symptoms include heel pain, tenderness, and discomfort during physical activity. Some children may also limp or avoid putting full weight on the affected foot. Because heel pain can have several causes, a professional evaluation is important to determine the correct diagnosis.

Sever's disease often develops when the heel bone grows faster than the surrounding muscles and tendons can adapt. The tight tissues pull on the growth plate, leading to irritation and inflammation. Children who are physically active or participate in high-impact sports may have a greater risk of developing this condition. Although the problem usually improves once the growth plate matures, ongoing pain can interfere with sports, school activities, and normal walking. A comprehensive podiatry examination helps identify the source of heel pain while ruling out fractures or other foot conditions. Early diagnosis also allows appropriate treatment to begin before symptoms become more limiting.

A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating children's foot conditions, including Sever's disease. Professional care focuses on reducing heel pain, improving foot function, and helping children return to normal activities as safely as possible. Treatment is based on each child's symptoms, activity level, and stage of growth. Regular follow-up visits also allow healing to be monitored while ensuring the condition continues to improve. If your child has persistent heel pain or difficulty participating in everyday activities, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Daniel Mendoza, DPM from Nashville Podiatry. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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

Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, occur when the skin on the heel becomes dry, thick, and splits under pressure. The heel supports body weight during standing and walking, which makes it more prone to stress and skin breakdown. When the skin loses moisture and elasticity, it can no longer stretch properly, leading to visible cracks. While mild cases may only affect the surface, more severe fissures can deepen and cause discomfort or complications if not treated.

Symptoms of cracked heels include dry, rough skin around the heel, visible splitting, and a hardened or callused surface. In more advanced cases, the cracks may become painful, especially when walking or standing for long periods. Deep fissures can bleed and may expose underlying tissue, increasing sensitivity. If the condition worsens, the open cracks can allow bacteria to enter, raising the risk of infection. Redness, swelling, or drainage may indicate that medical attention is needed.

The primary causes of cracked heels include dry skin, which can result from environmental factors or lack of proper hydration. Walking barefoot can increase pressure on the heel and contribute to skin thickening and splitting. Wearing shoes that do not provide proper support or cushioning can also place added stress on the heel. Standing for extended periods of time and exposure to harsh conditions can further reduce skin flexibility and lead to fissure formation.

Risk factors for cracked heels include aging, obesity, and medical conditions such as diabetes or thyroid disorders that affect skin health. Poor foot hygiene and lack of regular moisturizing can also increase the likelihood of developing heel fissures. Maintaining proper foot care, including hydration and wearing supportive footwear, can help prevent this condition. Early care is important to avoid complications and improve comfort. If you have cracked heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication. 

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Daniel Mendoza, DPM from Nashville Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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