OpenHealth Q&A

The persistent dark spot on your heel could be due to several factors, including pressure from new footwear, a bruise, or even a form of skin discoloration. Given that it has been present for three weeks and feels firm without pain, it is less likely to be an infection or a typical blood blister, which would usually be tender or painful.

Explanation

When new shoes are worn, they can cause friction or pressure that may lead to discoloration of the skin, especially if they're too tight or not well-fitted. If the spot feels firm and there’s no additional swelling, warmth, or pain, it might just be localized skin irritation or a bruise. However, there are other possibilities, such as:

• Bacterial or fungal infection: These usually have accompanying symptoms, so lack of pain or other signs makes this less likely.
• Hyperpigmentation: Sometimes skin changes color due to pressure or trauma.

Next Steps

1. Monitor the Spot: Keep an eye on its changes over the next week. Look for any signs of increased redness, swelling, or pain. If any of these develop, it may require further attention.

2. Footwear Review: Consider the fit of your new shoes. Ensure they are comfortable and provide adequate support. If they seem to be causing friction, switch to different footwear temporarily.

3. Gentle Care: Maintain hygiene by washing the area with mild soap and water. Apply a moisturizing lotion to help keep the skin healthy and reduce irritation.

4. Limit Pressure: Try to rest your feet as much as possible to avoid further irritation. You might consider using cushioned insoles to reduce pressure on the heel while wearing shoes.

5. Consider a Protective Barrier: If you need to wear potentially irritating footwear, you might try using a padded bandage over the area to protect it.

If the spot does not improve within a week, changes significantly, or becomes painful, further evaluation could be helpful to rule out other causes. Please take care of your feet!