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Fundamentals of a Broken Toe

Tuesday, 30 April 2024

A broken toe, though seemingly minor, can disrupt daily routines and cause significant discomfort. Typically resulting from trauma or impact, a broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones fracture. Symptoms can include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. Diagnosis often involves a physical examination and X-rays to determine the severity of the fracture. Treatment varies depending on the extent of the injury but commonly involves rest, elevation, and pain management. In some cases, the toe may need to be immobilized with a splint or buddy taping to a neighboring toe for support. Healing time ranges from a few weeks to several months, depending upon individual healing capabilities and the severity of the fracture. Ignoring a broken toe or failing to seek proper treatment can lead to complications, such as deformity or chronic pain. If you suspect you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat this condition.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Jonathan Kletz from Texas Foot Works. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

Swelling
Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
Stiffness
Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

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 tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Where Are Plantar Warts Found?

Tuesday, 23 April 2024

Plantar warts, medically termed Verruca plantaris, are common skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV. These warts typically appear on the soles of the feet, often in areas subjected to pressure or friction, such as the heels or balls of the feet. Plantar warts often manifest as small, rough, grainy lesions with black dots, or wart seeds, scattered throughout. These black dots are actually tiny blood vessels. While plantar warts are usually harmless, they can cause discomfort or pain, especially when walking or standing. The HPV virus enters the body through small cuts or breaks in the skin, making individuals who frequently walk barefoot in communal areas more susceptible to infection. Treatment options for plantar warts range from remedies like salicylic acid patches or freezing kits to medical procedures performed by podiatrists. Seeking prompt treatment is essential to alleviate symptoms and prevent the spread of plantar warts to other areas of the feet or other individuals. If you have a plantar wart, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer the best treatment option for you.

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 care needs.

Causes and Nature of Morton's Neuroma

Tuesday, 16 April 2024

Morton's neuroma, a common foot condition, occurs when a nerve in the ball of the foot becomes thickened and inflamed, leading to pain and discomfort. This condition typically affects the area between the third and fourth toes but can also occur between other toes. The exact cause of Morton's neuroma is not always clear, but it often develops due to repetitive stress or irritation on the nerve, such as wearing tight or high-heeled shoes that compress the forefoot. Activities that involve repetitive pressure on the ball of the foot, such as running or participating in high-impact sports, can also contribute to the development of Morton's neuroma. Additionally, foot deformities like bunions, hammertoes, or flat feet may increase the risk. Understanding the underlying causes of Morton's neuroma is important for effective management and prevention strategies, which may include wearing supportive footwear, using orthotic inserts, and avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat Morton’s neuroma.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Dr. Jonathan Kletz of Texas Foot Works. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

Do Your Child's Feet Hurt?

Wednesday, 10 April 2024

Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.

Diagnosis and Stretches for Plantar Fasciitis Relief

Tuesday, 09 April 2024

Plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel pain, occurs when the thick band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed. Diagnosing this condition typically involves a thorough physical examination by a podiatrist, focusing on the affected foot's tenderness and range of motion. Imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans may also be utilized to rule out other possible causes of heel pain and confirm the diagnosis. Once diagnosed, incorporating stretching exercises into a daily routine can help alleviate symptoms and promote healing. Simple stretches targeting the calf muscles and the plantar fascia itself, such as calf stretches, towel stretches, and plantar fascia stretches can effectively reduce tightness and discomfort. These stretches should be performed gently and consistently to gradually improve flexibility and reduce strain on the affected tissues. In addition to stretching, lifestyle modifications may be recommended to manage plantar fasciitis and restore foot health. If you have heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer you treatment options.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, 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.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

Excessive running
Non-supportive shoes
Overpronation
Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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