Items filtered by date: June 2024

Inside ankle pain, or medial ankle pain, can result from several common causes. One frequent cause is posterior tibial tendonitis, where inflammation affects the tendon supporting the arch. Another potential cause is tarsal tunnel syndrome, a condition involving the compression of the tibial nerve. Medial ankle sprains, typically less common than lateral sprains, can also lead to significant pain and swelling. Preventing inside ankle pain involves strengthening the ankle muscles and tendons through exercises and stretches. Wearing properly fitted, supportive footwear can also help maintain proper alignment and reduce strain. Additionally, avoiding overuse and allowing adequate rest between activities can prevent tendonitis and other overuse injuries. If pain persists, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective treatment and prevention strategies.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one our of podiatrists from The Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

Plantar warts are small, grainy growths that appear on the soles of the feet, typically caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV. This virus enters the skin through tiny cuts or abrasions, often in warm, moist environments like public showers, gym locker rooms, or pools. Plantar warts are characterized by their rough texture and may have small black dots on the surface, which are clotted blood vessels. They can cause discomfort or pain, especially while walking or standing. The pressure from bearing weight on the feet can cause the wart to grow inward beneath a hard, thick layer of skin, making it more painful. Common symptoms include a painful, thickened spot on the sole, a rough surface, and difficulty in walking comfortably. If you have developed a plantar wart, it is suggested that you seek prompt attention from a podiatrist who can offer appropriate treatment techniques.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one our of podiatrists from The Foot and Ankle Specialists. 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 Houston, Deer Park, and Mont Belvieu, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Children's participation in sports brings numerous benefits, but it also comes with the risk of acute and overuse injuries to their feet and ankles. Physiological and physical differences between children and adults make kids particularly vulnerable to these injuries. Children's bones are still developing, making them more prone to fractures, growth plate injuries, and tendon strains. Additionally, their muscles and ligaments are less developed and may not provide adequate support during physical activity, increasing the risk of sprains and overuse injuries. Common foot and ankle injuries among kids involved in sports include ankle sprains, Sever's disease, stress fractures, and Achilles tendonitis. These injuries can significantly impact a child's participation in sports and overall quality of life if not properly addressed. If your child experiences foot or ankle pain during or after sports activities, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a thorough evaluation and appropriate management. Early intervention can prevent long-term complications and facilitate a safe return to sports.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one our of podiatrists of The Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Houston, Deer Park, and Mont Belvieu, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe, causing it to deviate towards the other toes. This condition, known as hallux valgus, can result from genetic predisposition, wearing tight or narrow shoes, arthritis, or stress on the foot. Symptoms include pain, swelling, redness, and difficulty in walking. Additionally, the skin over the bunion may gradually become thickened and tender. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and X-rays to assess the severity and underlying bone structure. Treatment options range from conservative methods such as wearing wider shoes, using orthotic devices, and taking anti-inflammatory medications, to more invasive procedures like bunion surgery for severe cases. Untreated bunions can lead to complications such as chronic pain, bursitis, hammertoe, and difficulty finding comfortable footwear. If you have a bunion that is causing you discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a tailored treatment plan.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one our of podiatrists of The Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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