Heel pain can interfere with walking, standing, and daily activities. One of the most common causes of heel pain is strain on the thick band of tissue under the heel, termed the plantar fascia. Among other causes are inflammation near the heel bone, nerve irritation, or structur

al issues that affect how the foot absorbs pressure. A podiatrist performs a detailed exam, reviews activity history, and may use imaging to identify the source of heel pain. Treatment options include custom orthotics to reduce strain, guided stretching programs, activity modification, and medical procedures for persistent symptoms. Addressing alignment or gait problems can reduce repeated stress on the heel and surrounding tissues. Surgery may be discussed when other options do not provide lasting relief. If you experience heel pain that will not go away, 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 Leonard Talarico, DPM of Georgia. 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 Pooler, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Following an ankle fracture, balance can remain altered even once the bone has healed. Time spent in a cast or boot often leads to muscle weakness and reduced joint awareness, which can affect how the body stays upright. Evaluation looks at how weight is shared between both feet, then gradually challenges the injured side to assess control. Small movements, such as swaying, hesitation, or dependence on support, may indicate reduced stability. Testing may also involve gentle changes in position or surface to observe how the ankle adapts. Lingering pain, stiffness, or lack of confidence can further influence balance. Identifying these issues early helps reduce fall risk and supports a safer return to daily activities. Focused care aims to rebuild strength, coordination, and trust in the ankle. If you have sustained an ankle fracture and standing feels unsteady or balance has not fully returned, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist to have your progress assessed and receive appropriate treatment.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Leonard Talarico, DPM from Georgia. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
• Swelling around the area
• Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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

Recognizing an athlete’s foot infection starts with noticing changes in the skin on the feet, especially between the toes and along the soles. Early signs include itching, burning, or stinging, followed by peeling, cracking, or scaling skin that can become red and irritated. Some people notice small blisters or areas of raw skin, while others develop dry, thickened patches along the sides or bottom of the foot. In some cases, the infection spreads to the toenails, leading to discoloration, thickening, or crumbling. Athlete’s foot develops from fungus that thrives in warm, moist environments, like sweaty shoes or walking barefoot in shared areas. A podiatrist can examine the feet, confirm whether a fungal infection is present, and recommend appropriate treatment to reduce symptoms and prevent long-term skin or nail problems. If you think you have an athlete's foot infection, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and options for help.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Leonard Talarico, DPM from Georgia. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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

Sever’s disease is a common cause of heel pain in active children and adolescents during growth spurts. It occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes irritated from repeated stress. The heel may look slightly swollen or red, and it is often tender to touch. It commonly feels sore, aching, or sharp, especially during or after sports, running, or jumping. Pain may improve with rest but returns with activity. A podiatrist can help from the start by reviewing activity levels, examining foot structure and gait, and confirming the diagnosis while ruling out other heel conditions. Treatment focuses on reducing strain on the heel and may include activity modification, heel cushions, supportive footwear, and guidance on proper warm-up and recovery. In some cases, short-term rest or immobilization may be needed to allow healing. Early care helps relieve pain, support healthy growth, and prevent ongoing discomfort. If your child is having heel pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Leonard Talarico, DPM from Georgia. 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 Pooler, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.