Items filtered by date: December 2023

Claw toe, a foot deformity characterized by a claw-like appearance of the toes, demands prompt attention to alleviate discomfort and prevent worsening. Non-surgical interventions are often the initial line of defense, focusing on enhancing toe flexibility and optimizing foot mechanics. Taping or splinting to maintain toes in a more natural position, can reduce the progression of a claw toe. Gentle exercises also promote joint mobility and encourage toes to assume a healthier alignment. Activities like picking up small items with your toes can be beneficial. In severe cases, surgical options become a consideration. Joint fusion or tendon and bone operations may be recommended to address the root cause and provide lasting relief. Early intervention significantly improves the prognosis for individuals grappling with claw toe deformity. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine the most appropriate treatment plan tailored to managing claw toes. Early intervention significantly improves the prognosis for individuals with claw toe deformity.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Podiatry Associates of Victoria. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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

A diabetic foot exam is a comprehensive evaluation essential for managing diabetes and preventing foot-related complications. During this examination, podiatrists visually inspect the feet for any cuts, sores, blisters, or signs of infection. They also check for changes in skin color, swelling, and redness. Another critical aspect of the exam involves assessing sensation in the feet. Podiatrists use tools like a monofilament or tuning fork to test for diabetic neuropathy, a condition that can reduce sensitivity in the feet. To evaluate blood flow, pulses in the feet are checked to identify any circulation problems that may slow down wound healing. Additionally, podiatrists look for foot deformities, such as bunions or hammertoes, which can increase the risk of pressure sores. An examination of the patient’s shoes will be done to ensure proper fit and support. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist for such exams, as well as to get vital education on how to take care of your feet to preserve their health.

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 Podiatry Associates of Victoria. 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 office located in Victoria, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Blisters, characterized by fluid-filled bubbles on the skin, often arise from friction or injuries like burns, spider bites, or pinching, and are occasionally due to infections. In most instances, managing blisters at home is feasible. Small, intact blisters, even blood blisters, generally heal naturally. Foot blisters in children should not be disturbed if unbroken. The exception is covering it with a bandage or moleskin pad and having the child avoid activities that provoke the blister formation. If your child has a blister that ruptures, persists, causes pain, or appears infected, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for proper care.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of Podiatry Associates of Victoria. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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

Ankle injuries, a common woe for sports enthusiasts, often leave you wondering: Is it a sprain or a break? Understanding the nuances is imperative for effective treatment. A sprain occurs when ligaments, which are the connectors between bones and joints, are forcefully stretched beyond their normal range. Notably, ankle sprains take the lead as the most prevalent sports injury. Conversely, a fracture entails a break in a bone, with a broken ankle indicating damage to tibia and fibula in the leg or calcaneus and talus bones of the foot. Fractures cause sudden pain and noticeable swelling, whereas stress fractures, smaller cracks in the bone, bring intense pain with less swelling. When uncertainty looms, seeking medical guidance is paramount. Consult a podiatrist if you suspect a fracture or ruptured ligament. Tenderness over a bone and an irregular shape of the leg or joint may signify a break or dislocation, necessitating immediate attention. An accurate diagnosis ensures the right intervention, whether it is rest and rehabilitation for a sprain or more intensive measures for a fracture. If you have sustained a serious ankle injury, be it a sprain or a fracture, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Podiatry Associates of Victoria. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

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