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What Are Plantar Warts?

Tuesday, 24 February 2026

Plantar warts are small growths that develop on the soles of the feet due to infection from the human papillomavirus, or HPV. This virus enters the skin through tiny cuts or abrasions, often in warm and moist environments like locker rooms or public showers. Risk factors include walking barefoot in shared spaces, weakened immunity, and direct contact with contaminated surfaces. Plantar warts may appear as rough, grainy lesions with tiny black dots in the center, and can cause pain while walking or standing. They sometimes grow inward because of pressure on the foot. A podiatrist can diagnose and safely treat plantar warts with effective in-office procedures. If you think you have developed a plantar wart, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief solutions.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Grand Blanc Family Footcare. Our doctors 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 Grand Blanc, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Definition of Sever’s Disease and Risk Factors

Tuesday, 17 February 2026

Sever’s disease is a common growth-related heel condition that affects active children and adolescents during periods of rapid development. It occurs when repetitive stress and tension irritate the growth plate at the back of the heel where the Achilles tendon attaches. Causes often include running, jumping, tight calf muscles and overuse during sports activities. Risk factors may include high activity levels, wearing improper footwear, flat feet, or rapid growth spurts. A podiatrist can help by providing an accurate diagnosis recommending activity modification, custom orthotics, stretching, guidance, and supportive footwear to reduce strain on the heel. Early care can ease pain, improve mobility, and prevent ongoing discomfort. If your active child has heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and management tips.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Grand Blanc Family Footcare. Our doctors 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 Grand Blanc, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Protecting Feet Through Specialized Diabetic Care

Tuesday, 10 February 2026

Foot complications related to diabetes can escalate quickly without expert attention. Reduced sensation may prevent patients from noticing cuts or pressure points, while impaired circulation slows healing. A podiatrist helps interrupt this cycle by providing focused care aimed at preserving function and preventing limb loss. Treatment often includes detailed examinations, wound care, infection management, and strategies to relieve pressure on vulnerable areas. Structural problems may be corrected to reduce repeat injury, and ongoing monitoring helps catch changes early. Coordination with other medical providers is sometimes needed to address circulation or systemic concerns. Education also plays an important role, empowering patients to protect their feet daily. When care is timely and consistent, outcomes often improve significantly. If diabetes has caused persistent foot wounds, skin breakdown, or infection, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Grand Blanc Family Footcare. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Knowing When You Need New Running Shoes

Tuesday, 03 February 2026

Running shoes gradually lose their ability to protect the feet, and mileage is one of the most reliable ways to judge when replacement is needed. For many runners, shoes begin to break down between 300 and 500 miles, depending on body weight, running style, and surface. Even before visible damage appears, cushioning and stability can weaken, placing more stress on the feet and ankles. Other warning signs include uneven sole wear, reduced traction, heel breakdown, or new soreness during or after runs. Keeping a simple log of mileage can help runners avoid using shoes beyond their effective lifespan. A podiatrist can examine foot structure, walking and running mechanics, and shoe wear patterns to determine whether worn footwear is contributing to discomfort. They can also provide guidance on shoe selection and support needs based on activity level. If you experience foot pain after running, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists of Grand Blanc Family Footcare. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.

More Tips for Preventing Injury

Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
“Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
Cross-Training is Crucial
Wear Proper Running Shoes
Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause injury

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

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