Items filtered by date: October 2024

Osteoarthritis of the ankle is less common than in the knees or hips, but it can significantly affect quality of life. It often develops after injury, such as a fracture or sprain, leading to wear and tear of the cartilage. The average age of onset is typically in the 50s, but earlier cases may occur after trauma. Symptoms include pain, stiffness, and swelling, making it difficult to walk or stand for long periods of time. Initial treatments focus on relieving symptoms with conservative measures like targeted stretching exercises and supportive footwear. If pain persists, more advanced options include cortisone injections and orthotics. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary, ranging from joint-preserving procedures like arthroscopy or osteotomy to joint-sacrificing options like ankle fusion or total ankle replacement to restore mobility and reduce pain. If you suffer from ankle arthritis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and treatment for the level of pain you are experiencing.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Accent 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 joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Arlington and Mansfield, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar warts are growths that appear on the soles of the feet, caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV. They occur when the virus enters the skin through tiny cuts or breaks, often from walking barefoot in moist environments like locker rooms or public pools. Children, teenagers, and people with weakened immune systems are more prone to developing plantar warts. These warts usually look like small, rough, grainy bumps with tiny black dots, which are clotted blood vessels. They can be painful, especially when walking or standing, as pressure pushes the wart inward, causing discomfort. Plantar warts are contagious and can spread. Treatment options include cryotherapy, or freezing the wart, or stronger treatments. If you have a plantar wart that is painful or spreading, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for proper removal and to prevent spreading the virus to other areas of the foot or body.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Accent Podiatry Associates. 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 offices located in Arlington and Mansfield, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Measuring feet for proper shoe sizing is imperative for comfort and preventing foot problems. To get the most accurate size, measure your feet at the end of the day when they are at their largest. Use a ruler or foot-measuring tool to assess the length from heel to toe and the width at the widest point. It is important to measure both feet, as one foot is often slightly larger. Shoes should fit the larger foot. A podiatrist can provide expert guidance in finding the right shoe size, especially if you have foot issues like bunions, hammertoes, or flat arches. They can assess your foot structure and recommend orthotics or custom shoes for optimal support. A podiatrist can also help treat any foot-related problems that arise from wearing improper footwear and offer advice on the best shoes for different activities to prevent future discomfort or injury. If you have foot problems or need help in selecting well-fitting shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of one of our podiatrists from Accent Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

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

Diabetes can significantly impact foot health, primarily through a condition known as diabetic neuropathy. This occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the nerves in the feet, leading to symptoms like numbness, tingling, and pain. In severe cases, diabetic patients might experience a loss of sensation, making it difficult to detect injuries or infections. Additionally, poor circulation can slow down healing, which increases the risk of ulcers and infections. Proper management of blood sugar levels is key to preventing these complications. Regular foot inspections, wearing proper footwear, and daily foot care can help mitigate the effects. Treatment often involves managing diabetes effectively, controlling pain with medications, and in some cases, foot exercises. To ensure optimal foot health and address any concerns, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for specialized care and preventive strategies tailored to your needs.
 

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 Accent Podiatry Associates. 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 offices located in Arlington and Mansfield, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A bruised heel, also known as a heel contusion, occurs when the heel experiences trauma or impact, leading to damage of the soft tissues and blood vessels. This condition often results from activities that involve jumping, running, or walking on hard surfaces. Symptoms typically include localized pain, swelling, and tenderness on the heel. The area may also appear discolored due to internal bleeding. The pain is usually sharp and may worsen with pressure or movement. Relief for a bruised heel involves rest to avoid aggravating the injury, and performing gentle stretching exercises to promote healing. Pain relief medication can help manage discomfort. If symptoms persist or worsen, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a thorough evaluation, and to rule out more serious injuries.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Accent Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Arlington and Mansfield, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.