Items filtered by date: November 2025

Heel pain from conditions such as plantar fasciitis or bone spurs is a common problem that can interfere with normal activities and overall comfort. These issues often develop from repetitive strain, poor footwear, high arches, or prolonged standing, leading to inflammation or bony growths in the heel area. Symptoms may include sharp pain with the first steps in the morning, aching discomfort after activity, or tenderness when pressing on the bottom or back of the heel. The affected area may appear slightly swollen or feel warm, and walking can become difficult when the pain increases. A podiatrist can begin by evaluating your foot structure, gait, and medical history to determine the exact cause of your discomfort. Treatment may include stretching programs, supportive custom orthotics, targeted footwear recommendations, anti-inflammatory therapies, or, in some cases, advanced modalities to reduce inflammation and promote healing. Early attention helps prevent worsening symptoms and supports long-term recovery. If you experience ongoing heel discomfort, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. 

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact James Torhorst, DPM of Torhorst Foot and Ankle. 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 offices located in Waupaca and Stevens Point, WI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Scleroderma is a rare condition that causes the skin and connective tissue to thicken and tighten. When it affects the lower limbs, it can create a number of challenges. Skin on the legs and feet may feel tight, shiny, or hard, which can limit flexibility and make walking uncomfortable. Swelling surrounding the ankles or feet is also common. Poor circulation is another concern, often leading to cold feet, color changes in the skin, or slow healing of small cuts and sores. Some people may develop painful ulcers on the toes or heels. Joint stiffness, muscle weakness, or nerve symptoms such as tingling can add to the difficulty. Because these issues can interfere with daily mobility, early management is important. If you notice changes in your legs or feet linked to scleroderma, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for supportive care and guidance.

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly.  If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact James Torhorst, DPM from Torhorst Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable.  Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet. 

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Waupaca and Stevens Point, WI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Corns and calluses are common foot problems, but they are not the same condition. A corn is a small area of thickened skin that often develops on the tops or sides of toes where friction or pressure is highest. Corns may be hard or soft, and can become painful when pressed. Calluses, on the other hand, are broader areas of thickened skin that usually form on the bottom of the foot, particularly on the heel or ball. They develop as the skin’s way of protecting itself from repeated pressure or rubbing. Wearing ill fitting shoes, foot deformities, or frequent standing and walking may contribute to both conditions. While they are often harmless, discomfort can interfere with daily activity. If you are experiencing painful corns or calluses, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for safe and effective treatment options.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact James Torhorst, DPM of Torhorst Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Waupaca and Stevens Point, WI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

When the feet are healthy, it is easier for elderly patients to stay active and independent, in addition to staying mentally and physically balanced. The feet of older people can be exposed to excessive wear and tear, and this may be a result of a loss of fatty padding. It is beneficial to keep the feet as clean as possible, and this is accomplished by washing and drying them throughout the day. Cracked heels may be prevented as the feet are moisturized on a regular basis, as this may help the skin to remain soft. Additionally, it is important to properly trim the toenails, as this may help to prevent ingrown toenails. If you are older and have difficulty in maintaining proper care of your feet, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist.

If you need your feet checked, contact James Torhorst, DPM of Torhorst Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Waupaca and Stevens Point, WI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.