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September 2025

Tuesday, 30 September 2025 00:00

Causes and Risk Factors for Toenail Fungus

Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a common condition in which fungi infect the nails, causing thickening, discoloration, and brittleness. It often develops in warm, moist environments such as shoes, locker rooms, and around pools. Risk factors include aging, diabetes, compromised immune systems, nail trauma, and poor foot hygiene. Symptoms may involve yellow or white spots on the nail, crumbling edges, and an unpleasant odor. Without treatment, the infection can spread to other nails or skin. A podiatrist can accurately diagnose toenail fungus, provide effective treatments, and recommend preventive strategies. If you have symptoms of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment remedies, which may include prescribed medication.

For more information about treatment, 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.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please 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 and ankle needs.

Read more about Treating Toenail Fungus
Published in Blog
Tuesday, 23 September 2025 00:00

Common Reasons for Heel Pain

Heel pain can affect daily movement and comfort. One of the most common causes of heel pain is plantar fasciitis. This occurs when the thick band of tissue on the bottom of the foot becomes irritated, often leading to sharp pain near the heel bone. Heel spurs, small bony growths that develop on the underside of the heel, can also contribute to heel pain. Other sources include inflammation of the Achilles tendon where it attaches to the heel, and irritation of the protective fat pad that cushions the heel during walking. Long periods of standing, wearing shoes that lack adequate support, or repeated stress from running and sports may worsen these conditions. A podiatrist can provide an accurate diagnosis, recommend the appropriate treatment, and help prevent more severe issues, such as chronic pain or mobility limitations. If you are experiencing heel pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, 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.

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 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.

Read more about Heel Pain
Published in Blog
Tuesday, 16 September 2025 00:00

The Hidden Cost of Long Runs on Your Feet

Runner’s toe, sometimes called black toenail, occurs when repeated impact causes bleeding beneath the toenail. Long runs, downhill training, or wearing shoes that are too tight can create constant pressure on the toes, leading to bruising and discoloration. At first, the nail may look red or purple, but over time, it can turn dark and become painful. In some cases, the nail may loosen or fall off as new growth pushes through. While the condition is usually not dangerous, it can interfere with training and increase the risk of infection if the nail separates from the skin. Choosing properly fitted shoes, trimming nails straight across, and using moisture-wicking socks can help prevent recurrence. If pain is severe, or if you notice signs of infection, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for appropriate treatment and guidance.

All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Jonathan Kletz of Texas Foot Works. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.

More Tips for Preventing Injury

  • Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
  • Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
  • “Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
  • Cross-Training is Crucial
  • Wear Proper Running Shoes
  • Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause 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.

Read more about Preventing Running Injuries
Published in Blog
Tuesday, 09 September 2025 00:00

Chronic Ankle Instability and Podiatric Care

Chronic ankle instability is a condition where the ankle frequently gives way, especially during physical activity or walking on uneven surfaces. It often develops from recurrent ankle sprains, multiple ligament injuries, or even a first-time ankle sprain at a young age that did not heal properly. Symptoms may include persistent swelling, pain, and a feeling of weakness or looseness in the ankle. A podiatrist can help by assessing joint stability, taking radiographic images, prescribing strengthening exercises, fitting supportive orthotics, and providing treatments to improve balance and prevent future injuries. If chronic ankle instability is limiting your mobility or causing repeated sprains, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. Jonathan Kletz from Texas Foot Works. Our doctor 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 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.

Read more about Various Causes of Ankle Pain
Published in Blog
Friday, 05 September 2025 00:00

Plantar Warts Can Be Treated!

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!

Published in Blog
Tuesday, 02 September 2025 00:00

Risk Factors for Achilles Tendon Injuries

Achilles tendon injuries are often linked to a combination of overuse, biomechanics, and lifestyle factors that place stress on the tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel. Sudden changes in activity, such as increasing running mileage or adding explosive movements like jumps, can strain the tendon. Training on different surfaces or changing footwear may also raise the risk of Achilles tendon injuries. Tight or weak calf muscles, excessive inward rolling of the foot called pronation, or chronic ankle instability can all contribute to tendon damage. People with high-arched feet or a small leg-length difference are more prone to injury because these conditions alter how pressure is distributed across the feet and ankles.  A podiatrist can assess the severity of the injury and provide effective treatment, including surgery, when needed. If you have injured your Achilles tendon, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, 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.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

  • Inflammation
  • Dull to severe pain
  • Increased blood flow to the tendon
  • Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

  • Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
  • Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

  • Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
  • Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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.

Read more about What are Achilles Tendon Injuries
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