Items filtered by date: December 2022

All of the toes, except for the big toe, have three bony segments that are separated by joints. The foot condition that is known as hammertoe can cause the joints that are between the first and second segment to bend downward, and it generally affects the second and third toe. It is considered to be a deformity, and can be caused by genetic factors or from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. These types of shoes typically do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in and can change the shape of the foot. Many patients can experience pain in the ball of the foot, and difficulty in finding shoes that fit properly. Additionally, corns may develop on top of the toes as a result of friction that is caused by the toes constantly touching the top of the shoe. Hammertoe is easy to diagnose, and X-rays are often not necessary to take. Relief may come from performing specific stretches, and cushioned pads may be used on top of the corns. If you have developed hammertoe, please speak to a podiatrist who can diagnose and offer you correct treatment solutions, which may include surgery for permanent straightening.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrist of North Texas Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

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

It is common for people who are 50 years of age or older to experience arthritis. It can affect any joint in the body, and the feet are a common area for this to occur. It can become difficult to walk with arthritic joints in the feet, and there are methods that can be implemented that can help to prevent arthritis. Having a regular exercise routine is important in keeping the joints limber. This can be a result of the muscles surrounding the joints becoming stronger, which may help to take extra pressure off of the joints. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight can take the burden off of the feet, possibly reducing inflammation and discomfort. Research has shown that it is beneficial to drink plenty of water daily, which may help the body to naturally stop drawing water from the cartilage. This can ultimately cause the joints to lose lubrication. If you are afflicted with arthritis in your feet, please ask a podiatrist about effective relief and prevention methods.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrist from North Texas Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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

A burning sensation in the feet, especially at night, may indicate certain serious underlying conditions that should not be ignored. One of the main causes of burning feet is peripheral neuropathy, nerve damage that is common among diabetics. Neuropathy also may be the result of overconsumption of alcohol or a deficiency in B vitamins, as well as other conditions. When the nerves in the lower extremities are damaged, they send mixed signals to the feet that generate a burning sensation. Peripheral artery disease is another cause of burning feet. Poor circulation to the feet can trigger pain, tingling and burning, especially when walking. Burning generally starts in the sole of the foot and travels upward toward the ankle. Symptoms usually worsen at night. Treatment for burning feet starts with eliminating the causes, the most common of which are high blood sugar and extreme use of alcohol. Certain medications are available that can help to alleviate symptoms of burning feet. If burning feet are inhibiting your daily life, it is a good idea to consult a podiatrist for an examination, a diagnosis, and treatment options that are best for you. 

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrist from North Texas Podiatry Associates. Our doctors 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 offices located in Euless and Southlake, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

As an individual gets older they can become more susceptible to suffering from a detrimental fall. This might be caused by weakened foot muscles or neglect of caring for the feet. While senior citizens may experience falls in their homes or out shopping, seniors can also suffer falls at nursing care facilities too. It is estimated that approximately half of all elderly individuals in a long-term care environment fall each year. This is particularly helpful to be aware of because if you have a loved one in a long-term care facility, you might consider helping them take steps to care for and strengthen their feet so that they do not suffer a similar fate. Contact a podiatrist today for more information about preventing falls among seniors. 

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrist from North Texas Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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