Plantar warts are small, rough growths that form on the bottom of the foot. They are caused by HPV, which stands for human papillomavirus. This virus can enter through tiny cuts or weak spots in the skin. These warts are frequently found on the heel or ball of the foot because those areas take the most pressure. That pressure can push the wart inward under thick, hardened skin. A plantar wart can look like a callus, but it can also have tiny black dots. These dots are small, clotted blood vessels, not seeds. Pain can occur when standing or when walking, especially if the wart is in a weight-bearing spot.

Plantar warts can spread on the same foot, and some people develop a cluster which are called mosaic warts. The virus grows well in warm, moist places like locker rooms, pool areas, and shared showers. Children, teenagers, and people with weaker immune systems are more likely to get them. A podiatrist can tell whether the growth is a wart, a corn, or another skin problem. This matters because different foot growths need different care. The podiatrist examines the skin lines, checks for tenderness, and looks for signs that the wart has grown inward. A clear diagnosis helps prevent delays in treatment.

Professional treatment focuses on removing the wart safely and reducing pain. A podiatrist can trim thick skin from the area, apply medicine in the office, or use freezing treatment. Some patients need repeated visits because plantar warts can be stubborn. Your podiatrist can also check whether the wart is changing your step and causing strain in other areas of the foot. This is important because pain can affect posture, balance, and daily activity. Patients with diabetes, poor feeling in the feet, or a weak immune system should seek care promptly. If you have developed a plantar wart, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Landon Bowerbank, DPM from Pioneer Foot and Ankle. our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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

Neuropathy affects the nerves, which are the body's communication pathways. When nerves become damaged, they cannot properly send signals between the feet and the brain. Diabetes is one of the leading causes of neuropathy, although other health conditions can also contribute to nerve damage. Neuropathy in the feet can cause numbness, tingling, and burning sensations. Some people feel sharp pain, while others lose the ability to feel injuries. This loss of feeling is especially concerning because cuts, blisters, or pressure points can go unnoticed. As a result, a person may continue walking on an injured foot without realizing that damage has occurred.

Neuropathy can lead to serious foot complications when it is not properly monitored. Reduced sensation increases the risk of skin breakdown, infection, and foot ulcers. A foot ulcer is an open sore that develops when skin and tissue become damaged. People with neuropathy may also experience muscle weakness and changes in foot shape. These changes can place extra pressure on certain areas of the foot. Another concern is balance problems that increase the risk of falls. Because these complications can progress without obvious warning signs, regular evaluations play an important role in protecting foot health and reducing the risk of severe injury.

A podiatrist can assess nerve function and identify early signs of neuropathy before major complications develop. The examination may include testing sensation, checking the movement of blood through the body, and evaluating foot structure. A podiatrist can also identify areas of high pressure that increase the risk of developing ulcers. Patients with diabetes benefit from routine foot screenings because nerve damage can gradually worsen without noticeable symptoms. Early detection allows appropriate treatment and ongoing monitoring to help prevent complications. Professional foot care also supports safer mobility and better overall foot health. If you have symptoms of neuropathy in the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis, appropriate treatment and management.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Landon Bowerbank, DPM from Pioneer Foot and Ankle. our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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

A foot sprain occurs when a ligament is stretched or torn. A ligament is a strong band of tissue that connects bones and helps keep joints stable. Most foot sprains happen when the foot twists unexpectedly, lands awkwardly, or remains planted while the body turns. Sports, dancing, and other activities that require quick changes in direction are common causes. A mid-foot sprain affects the center of the foot and can make movement difficult because this area helps support body weight. Sprains are generally grouped into three grades. Grade I involves small tears. Grade II involves larger tears. Grade III occurs when a ligament is completely torn or separated from the bone.

Symptoms of a sprained foot include pain, swelling, bruising, and tenderness. Many people have discomfort while walking and notice reduced strength when pushing off the foot. More severe injuries can make it difficult to place weight on the foot. Some patients also experience instability, meaning the foot feels weak or unsteady. A podiatrist can evaluate the injury with a physical examination and imaging tests. These are used to evaluate damage to soft tissues, ligaments, tendons, and muscles that support movement and stability.

Recovery depends on the severity of the injury. Treatment often includes a brace, walking boot, or crutches to protect the foot while healing. As pain and swelling improve, patients gradually return to normal activities. Rehabilitation exercises are frequently recommended to improve flexibility, strength, and balance. Supportive shoes with firm soles can help stabilize the foot while walking. More severe sprains sometimes require surgery to restore stability and proper alignment. Following a treatment plan carefully can improve healing and reduce the risk of future injuries. If you have sprained your foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Landon Bowerbank, DPM from Pioneer 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 our office located in Lehi, UT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel pain is one of the most common reasons people seek foot care from a podiatrist. The heel absorbs significant pressure during walking, running, and standing, making it vulnerable to injury and overuse. Heel pain may develop gradually or appear suddenly, depending on the underlying cause. Many people notice discomfort while taking their first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. Symptoms can range from mild soreness to sharp pain that affects mobility and daily activities. Because the heel plays a critical role in supporting body weight, ongoing pain can interfere with work, exercise, and overall quality of life.

One of the most common causes of heel pain is irritation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel to the toes. Heel pain may also result from inflammation, stress-related injuries, or irritation of nearby nerves. Individuals who spend long hours on their feet, participate in high-impact activities, or have certain foot structures may be at greater risk of developing symptoms. As discomfort increases, people often change the way they walk to avoid pain. This altered movement can place additional strain on the feet, ankles, and lower legs, potentially leading to further problems if left unaddressed.

A podiatrist can help identify the cause of heel pain through a thorough examination of the foot and ankle. Evaluating foot structure, gait, and overall function allows a podiatrist to develop an appropriate treatment plan based on the patient's specific needs. Professional care focuses on relieving pain, improving mobility, and addressing factors that contribute to ongoing discomfort. Early diagnosis and treatment may help prevent symptoms from becoming more severe and affecting daily activities. Maintaining healthy foot function is essential for long-term mobility and comfort. If you have developed heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Landon Bowerbank, DPM of Pioneer 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 office located in Lehi, UT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.