Obesity can affect the feet and ankles because these structures support the body during standing and movement. As body weight increases, the amount of force placed on weight-bearing joints also rises. The ankle joint can experience forces several times a person’s body weight while standing and walking, which means added weight may increase mechanical stress. Research has linked obesity with a higher occurrence of foot pain and problems such as tendinitis, plantar fasciitis, and osteoarthritis. Changes in foot width and arch structure may also affect how a person walks and how comfortably shoes fit.

The effects of obesity on the feet may extend to balance, injuries, and long-term mobility. Changes in walking patterns can make movement less efficient, while poor balance may increase the likelihood of falls. Obesity is also associated with adult-acquired flatfoot, which can develop when an important tendon supporting the arch is placed under greater strain. Higher body weight has also been connected with Achilles tendon problems and an increased risk of ankle fractures. These conditions can cause pain that makes physical activity more difficult, creating additional challenges for people already dealing with foot or ankle problems.

A podiatrist can evaluate foot pain and identify problems that may be related to increased stress on the feet and ankles. An examination can assess walking patterns, foot structure, and areas of discomfort to determine which tissues or joints are affected. This is especially important because obesity may also influence the risks and outcomes associated with certain foot and ankle surgeries. A podiatrist can recommend appropriate treatment based on the specific diagnosis and consider factors that may affect mobility or future care. If ongoing foot or ankle pain is limiting your ability to walk comfortably, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

The more you weigh, the harder your feet must work to support your body. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, 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.

Obesity and Your Feet

People who are overweight are putting more pressure on their ankles, knees, and hips as well as their feet. This unfortunately can lead to variety of different issues.

Problems & Complications Stemming from Obesity

• When the body is overweight, it tries to compensate by changing the way that it moves. An obese person may lean forward and put extra weight on the wrong part of the foot. This puts unnecessary stress on the feet.
• Obese people are also more likely to develop type II diabetes which is a condition that causes a lot of foot problems. People with diabetes often don’t feel the cuts and sores that they may have on their feet, which can lead to more complicated and severe issues.
• Plantar fasciitis is another foot condition that can be caused by obesity. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot, which causes pain and stiffness while walking and climbing stairs.

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.

Ankle pain can make everyday activities difficult and can affect people of all ages. The discomfort ranges from a mild ache to severe pain that makes standing or walking difficult. Some cases begin after sports or other physical activity. Others develop after wearing shoes that are too tight or shoes that lack proper support. Ankle pain also develops after a twist, a fall, or another injury. Conditions like Achilles tendonitis, bursitis, and fractures also cause ankle pain. Achilles tendonitis affects the strong cord that connects the calf muscles to the heel. Bursitis is an irritation of a small fluid-filled sac that cushions nearby tissues.

Types of ankle pain include sharp, dull, or throbbing discomfort, depending on the cause. Swelling, bruising, and stiffness are also common. Some people notice redness or warmth surrounding the joint. Others hear a popping sound when the injury happens. Difficulty putting weight on the ankle or walking normally can point to a more serious injury. A fracture can cause severe pain, significant swelling, and an ankle that looks out of place. Ignoring these warning signs can allow the condition to worsen and delay proper healing. A careful examination helps determine exactly what is causing the pain.

A podiatrist evaluates ankle pain with a detailed medical history and a thorough examination of the foot and ankle. Imaging tests, like X-rays or ultrasounds, also help identify damaged bones or soft tissues. After finding the cause, the podiatrist creates a treatment plan based on the diagnosis and the patient's needs. Treatment options include supportive devices, custom orthotics, braces, or other medical care designed to improve stability and reduce pain. The goal is to restore comfort, improve movement, and help prevent future ankle problems. If you have consistent ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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.

A Lisfranc fracture is an injury involving the section of the foot where several bones and ligaments connect the forefoot to the hindfoot. The injury can involve a broken bone, damaged ligament, or both. It may happen after a sports injury, fall, or vehicle accident. Because the Lisfranc joint complex supports the foot while walking, an untreated injury can cause pain, instability, and arthritis. Recognizing the injury can help protect foot function and improve recovery.

Symptoms may include pain across the midfoot, swelling, and difficulty putting weight on the foot. Bruising may appear on the bottom of the foot, which can be a warning sign. The foot may look swollen or misshapen, and walking may become uncomfortable. Some injuries are mistaken for a simple sprain because symptoms can vary. Risk factors include high-impact sports, falls, and accidents that force the foot into an abnormal position.

A podiatrist begins by reviewing how the injury occurred and examining the foot for swelling, bruising, and instability. Weight-bearing X-rays may help identify changes in bone alignment. CT or MRI scans may be recommended when the injury is difficult to see. Treatment depends on severity and whether the bones remain aligned. Stable injuries may require immobilization and limited weight-bearing. More serious injuries may need surgery to restore alignment and stabilize the damaged joints.

Healing from a Lisfranc fracture takes time and follow-up. A podiatrist may use a protective cast or boot, recommend crutches, and increase weight-bearing as healing progresses. After immobilization, rehabilitation can improve strength, flexibility, and balance. Imaging tests may confirm that the foot remains aligned during healing. Do not ignore midfoot pain or swelling after an injury. If you have a Lisfranc fracture or suspect this type of injury, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, 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.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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.

Children's feet change as they grow, and some changes can lead to temporary but painful conditions. One of the most common causes of heel pain in active children is Sever's disease, also called calcaneal apophysitis. Despite its name, it is not an illness or infection. Instead, it develops when the growth area at the back of the heel becomes irritated during periods of rapid growth. This condition is most often seen in children and teenagers who participate in sports that involve running or jumping. Common symptoms include heel pain, tenderness, and discomfort during physical activity. Some children may also limp or avoid putting full weight on the affected foot. Because heel pain can have several causes, a professional evaluation is important to determine the correct diagnosis.

Sever's disease often develops when the heel bone grows faster than the surrounding muscles and tendons can adapt. The tight tissues pull on the growth plate, leading to irritation and inflammation. Children who are physically active or participate in high-impact sports may have a greater risk of developing this condition. Although the problem usually improves once the growth plate matures, ongoing pain can interfere with sports, school activities, and normal walking. A comprehensive podiatry examination helps identify the source of heel pain while ruling out fractures or other foot conditions. Early diagnosis also allows appropriate treatment to begin before symptoms become more limiting.

A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating children's foot conditions, including Sever's disease. Professional care focuses on reducing heel pain, improving foot function, and helping children return to normal activities as safely as possible. Treatment is based on each child's symptoms, activity level, and stage of growth. Regular follow-up visits also allow healing to be monitored while ensuring the condition continues to improve. If your child has persistent heel pain or difficulty participating in everyday activities, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Dr. Jonathan Kletz from Texas Foot Works. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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.