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September 2023

Tuesday, 26 September 2023 00:00

Common Foot and Toe Injuries

The feet, ankles, and toes are intricate structures that bear the brunt of your daily activities. Unfortunately, injuries in these areas are not uncommon and can be quite painful. Ankle sprains often occur due to missteps or awkward landings, causing ligaments to stretch or tear. Stress fractures in the feet, often seen in runners, result from repetitive impact on the bones. Additionally, Achilles tendonitis can afflict the back of the ankle, causing pain and inflammation. Toes are not exempt, as stubbing or jamming them can lead to fractures or dislocations. Relief may come from getting adequate rest, and using compression and elevation may help to reduce existing swelling. For more severe injuries, seeking medical attention is essential for proper healing and to prevent long-term issues. Wearing proper footwear, performing warm up exercises, and being mindful of your surroundings can also reduce the risk of these injuries, allowing you to keep moving comfortably. If you have injured your foot, toe or ankle, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat these types of foot conditions. 

Foot and ankle trauma is common among athletes and the elderly. If you have concerns that you may have experienced trauma to the foot and ankle, consult with Dr. Jonathan Kletz from Texas Foot Works. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Foot and ankle trauma cover a range of injuries all over the foot; common injuries include:

  • Broken bones
  • Muscle strains
  • Injuries to the tendons and ligaments
  • Stress fractures

Symptoms

Symptoms of foot and ankle injuries vary depending on the injury, but more common ones include:

  • Bruising
  • Inflammation/ Swelling
  • Pain

Diagnosis

To properly diagnose the exact type of injury, podiatrists will conduct a number of different tests. Some of these include sensation and visual tests, X-rays, and MRIs. Medical and family histories will also be taken into account.

Treatment

Once the injury has been diagnosed, the podiatrist can than offer the best treatment options for you. In less severe cases, rest and keeping pressure off the foot may be all that’s necessary. Orthotics, such as a specially made shoes, or immobilization devices, like splints or casts, may be deemed necessary. Finally, if the injury is severe enough, surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our our offices located in Dallas, Athens, and Gun Barrel City, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Published in Blog
Tuesday, 19 September 2023 00:00

Definition and Root Causes of Heel Spurs

Heel spurs are bony growths that form on the underside of the heel bone or the back of the heel where the Achilles tendon attaches. These spurs are not sharp, unlike their name suggests, but they can cause excruciating discomfort by irritating the surrounding tissues. They often develop as a response to long-term strain on the foot's ligaments and muscles. Repetitive activities, such as running or standing for extended periods, improper footwear, and being overweight can contribute to the formation of heel spurs. Additionally, individuals with flat feet or high arches are more susceptible. While heel spurs may not always cause pain, when they do, it's typically due to inflammation of the nearby soft tissues. Understanding the definition and underlying causes of heel spurs empowers individuals to make informed choices in managing and preventing this sometimes debilitating foot condition. If you have heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose and treat heel spurs.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Dr. Jonathan Kletz from Texas Foot Works. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact one of our our offices located in Dallas, Athens, and Gun Barrel City, TX . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

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Published in Blog
Tuesday, 12 September 2023 00:00

Footwear Features for Hospital Workers

Comfort is important when it comes to shoes for hospital workers, and safety is even more so. A cushioned insole and a well padded interior are essential in providing all day comfort during extended shifts. Standing and walking for hours can take a toll on your feet, and having shoes that offer ample cushioning can help to reduce fatigue and discomfort. Having adequate arch support and a stable midsole can help maintain proper foot alignment and reduce strain on the feet and legs. Wearing shoes that have slip resistant outsoles are a must in healthcare settings, where floors can be wet or slippery. Breathability is also essential to keep your feet dry and comfortable throughout the day. Lightweight fabrics allow air circulation, reducing the risk of sweating and odor. Finding shoes constructed with high quality materials helps ensure that your shoes can withstand daily use and the occasional spills or accidents that are part of the job. For more information on finding the right shoes for hospital workers, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Dr. Jonathan Kletz from Texas Foot Works. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our our offices located in Dallas, Athens, and Gun Barrel City, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Published in Blog
Sunday, 10 September 2023 00:00

Gout Pain Can Be Managed

Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.

Published in Blog
Tuesday, 05 September 2023 00:00

Treatment for Plantar Warts

A plantar wart, which is a growth on the sole of your foot, is caused by exposure to the human papillomavirus, or HPV. Although this type of infection is more common among children and young adults, it can affect anyone. You might wonder how you end up with this unwelcome visitor. It's simple, the infection is caused by direct contact with the virus through a break in your skin. Sometimes, it can take months after exposure for a plantar wart to appear. The wart often starts as a small, rough patch on your foot's sole but can expand over time. These growths disrupt the usual skin lines on your feet and might display tiny black dots due to clogged blood vessels. Treatment options vary based on how the warts bother you. Salicylic acid treatments may or may not be effective. More advanced treatment includes the application of liquid nitrogen to freeze the skin, though this process can cause discomfort and may take several applications. If you think you may have a plantar wart, especially if it becomes painful or shows signs of infection, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. This qualified foot doctor can evaluate the problem and suggest a proper course of treatment. 

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Jonathan Kletz from Texas Foot Works. 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 one of our our offices located in Dallas, Athens, and Gun Barrel City, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about What Are Plantar Warts?
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