Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!
Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!
An ankle sprain occurs when the strong bands of tissue that hold the ankle bones together stretch beyond their normal limit and tear. Many people describe this injury as a rolled or twisted ankle. It can happen while playing sports, stepping off a curb, or slipping and falling. The damage ranges from a mild stretch to a complete tear. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, stiffness, and trouble putting weight on the foot. A severe ankle sprain can make walking very difficult. Ignoring these signs can allow the injury to become more serious and increase the chance of lasting ankle weakness.
A podiatrist begins by asking how the injury happened and examining the ankle for tenderness, swelling, movement, and stability. The exam helps determine how badly the ligaments have been damaged. Imaging tests, like X-rays, ultrasounds, or MRI scans, also help rule out broken bones or show the extent of a ligament tear. Ankle sprains are grouped into three grades. Grade 1 involves a stretched ligament with a small tear. Grade 2 includes a larger tear with more swelling and discomfort, while grade 3 means the ligament has torn completely. Although surgery is uncommon, it is sometimes recommended for severe injuries or repeated sprains affecting the same ankle.
Prompt diagnosis gives the ankle the best chance to heal correctly and lowers the risk of future problems. A podiatrist can recommend a brace that protects the ankle, monitor healing, and determine when it is safe to return to normal activities. Patients with repeated sprains can receive a careful evaluation to identify factors that increase their risk. This includes stiff ankles, very flexible joints, or high arches. Early care also helps prevent ongoing instability that affects balance and may cause another sprain. Early evaluation also helps reduce unnecessary strain on nearby joints and muscles. If you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist effective relief and treatment solutions.
Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Dr. Jonathan Kletz from Texas Foot Works. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?
Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.
What Are the Symptoms?
Preventing a Sprain
Treatment of a Sprain
In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.
It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.
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.
Foot therapy includes a variety of treatments that help improve comfort, support healthy movement, and reduce foot pain. One approach used by some podiatrists is foot reflexology. Reflexology involves applying gentle pressure to specific areas of the feet. These areas, called reflex points, are believed to correspond with different parts of the body. Many patients find reflexology relaxing, and it can help reduce muscle tension while improving their overall sense of well-being. A podiatrist first evaluates the condition of the feet to determine whether reflexology is appropriate as part of a treatment plan. Patients with foot pain, stiffness, or tired feet can benefit from a professional evaluation before beginning any type of foot therapy.
A podiatrist begins with a detailed examination of the feet and ankles. The evaluation includes checking foot structure, muscle strength, and flexibility. The podiatrist also observes how the patient stands and walks because gait, or the body's walking pattern, provides valuable information about foot function. The examination identifies areas of tenderness, pressure, and reduced movement that can affect comfort and balance. Based on these findings, the podiatrist determines whether reflexology can complement other treatments that address the patient's specific foot condition. The goal is to improve comfort while supporting healthy foot function.
Foot reflexology is frequently combined with other podiatric treatments that address the underlying cause of foot pain. Care also includes custom orthotics that improve foot alignment and distribute pressure more evenly across the feet. Guided exercises can strengthen the muscles that support the feet and ankles while improving flexibility and balance. The podiatrist can recommend shoes that fit properly and provide good support for daily activities. Regular follow-up visits allow progress to be monitored and treatment to be adjusted as needed. If you have symptoms of foot pain or reduced foot function, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.
Foot therapy is often necessary for those recovering from either foot deformities or foot injuries. If you have concerns regarding therapy, consult with Dr. Jonathan Kletz from Texas Foot Works. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Most Common Injuries
People who are active or athletes are prone to a variety of injuries. Therefore, it is often important to take part in physical therapy in order to quickly get back on the right track.
What to Do When Injured
Physical Therapy – This specialized treatment will focus on the affected area, speeding up recovery and the overall healing process. It is a proven method that has helped millions of people return from any injury.
During physical therapy you will undergo regimented training to get back into full form. Training is often very difficult, especially at first when the foot feels weak. Physical therapy often involves:
Basic stretching and twisting exercises – getting the feet’s mobility and flexibility up.
Massaging – the therapist will massage the injured area in order to activate the muscles and relax them.
Strengthening Exercises – this allows the muscles in the affected area to regain their full strength, a vital step towards full recovery.
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.
Foot problems from wearing high heels develop due to abnormal pressure distribution and altered foot mechanics. High heels shift body weight forward onto the forefoot, increasing stress on the toes and ball of the foot. This repeated pressure can lead to structural changes and painful conditions such as bunions, corns, hammertoe, and pump bump, known as Haglund’s deformity. These issues often worsen with prolonged wear and poorly fitted shoes. Bunions are bony prominences that form at the base of the big toe when the joint becomes misaligned. Symptoms include swelling, redness, and pain during walking. Corns are thickened areas of skin that develop from friction and pressure, often causing tenderness. Hammertoe occurs when the toe bends abnormally at the joint, leading to stiffness and discomfort. Pump bump, also known as a prominence at the back of the heel, results from repeated rubbing against the shoe and may cause irritation and swelling.
Common symptoms across these conditions include pain, bruising, and difficulty wearing shoes comfortably. Some individuals experience weakness in the foot or instability while walking. Risk factors include frequent high heel use, narrow toe boxes, and extended periods of standing or walking. Genetics and foot structure may also increase susceptibility to these deformities.
Preventive strategies focus on reducing pressure and supporting proper alignment. Choosing shoes with a wider toe box, lower heel height, and proper cushioning can help minimize strain. Alternating footwear and limiting high heel use allow the feet to recover. Stretching and strengthening exercises improve flexibility and stability. Early care can prevent progression and reduce discomfort. If you have foot pain caused by wearing high heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Jonathan Kletz from Texas Foot Works. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Effects of High Heels on the Feet
High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal. Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.
Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?
What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?
How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?
If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems. Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet. Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising. If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work. Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available.
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.
Choosing the right shoes for a child is a great way to support healthy foot development and promote comfort while walking, running, and playing. Children's feet are still growing, and the bones, muscles, and ligaments are not fully developed. Many toddlers have flat-looking feet when they first begin walking because a layer of fat hides the arch. This is usually a normal part of growth. Shoes should protect the feet while allowing natural movement. A good shoe includes a comfortable fit, enough room for the toes, and a flexible sole that bends near the front of the foot. The shoe should also have a secure fastening system, such as laces or straps, to help keep the foot stable inside the shoe.
As children become more active, shoes that fit properly become even more important. Shoes that are too tight can lead to discomfort and can contribute to problems like ingrown toenails. Shoes that are too loose can affect balance and increase the risk of tripping. Children's feet grow quickly, and changes in size can occur within a relatively short period. Some children also walk with their feet turned inward or outward during early childhood. In many cases, these walking patterns improve as strength, posture, and coordination develop. However, severe changes in walking patterns or symptoms that affect only one leg deserve professional evaluation. A podiatrist can assess foot structure, walking patterns, and shoe fit to determine whether treatment is needed.
Parents should also watch for signs that a child may be experiencing a foot problem. Warning signs include foot or heel pain, limping, or stiffness. Other concerns include persistent flat feet that limit activity, unusually shaped toes, or difficulty keeping up with other children while walking or running. A podiatrist can examine the feet, identify the cause of symptoms, and recommend appropriate treatment. Professional guidance can also help parents choose shoes that support healthy growth and comfortable movement. If your child has foot pain or if you need help in managing your child's foot health, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.
Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Dr. Jonathan Kletz of Texas Foot Works. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...
Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.
Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.
Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.
As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’.
As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.
Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.
Be watchful for any pain or injury.
Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.
Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.
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.
