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Southwestern Foot and Ankle Associates, P.C
11500 Highway 121, Building 700, Suite 710
Frisco, TX 75035

December 2019

Monday, 30 December 2019 00:00

Painful Joint Pain in the Feet

The medical condition that is referred to as rheumatoid arthritis can affect the tissues in the joints of the feet as a result of a compromised immune system. The symptoms that generally accompany this ailment can consist of stiffness, severe pain, and difficulty walking. Many patients notice a constant achy feeling in their feet as the day progresses, and the feet may feel warm. There are specific parts of the foot that are typically impacted by this condition. These can include the small joints that are located between the bones in the toes, the ankle joint, and the joints that surround the heel bone. Treatment options to be considered can include soaking the affected foot in warm water which may help in reducing existing inflammation, or wearing a boot that may help to relieve pressure. If you are afflicted with this painful condition, it is strongly advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can choose the correct treatment for you.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact Dr. Thomas Tran of Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C.. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

  • Swelling and pain in the feet
  • Stiffness in the feet
  • Pain on the ball or sole of feet
  • Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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

Read more about Rheumatoid Arthritis in the Feet
Sunday, 29 December 2019 00:00

Before you start dancing...

 

Monday, 23 December 2019 00:00

How to Check If You Have a Bunion

Bunions are a particularly painful type of foot condition that form on the side of the feet. If you are experiencing foot pain, there are a few steps you can take in order to determine if a bunion is the cause of the discomfort. You may begin by examining your feet to look for a bony lump, or protrusion on the side of your big toe. Next, you’ll want to determine if your big toe is pointing, or leaning towards the rest of your toes. Lastly, you’ll want to check if the skin on the lump is hard, red or swollen. If you notice that all of the above are true to your case, it is very likely that you have a bunion. To relieve the pain of a bunion, it is recommended that you wear shoes wider than normal, ice the affected area on and off, look into wearing bunion pads to prevent further friction with your footwear, and try to keep the weight off of the affected area. Bunions are likely to worsen overtime, which is why we recommend you speak with a podiatrist for professional guidance and a suggested treatment plan.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Dr. Thomas Tran of Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C.. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

  • Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
  • Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

  • Redness and inflammation
  • Pain and tenderness
  • Callus or corns on the bump
  • Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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

Read more about Bunions
Monday, 16 December 2019 00:00

Babies Have Flexible Feet

Research has shown that the majority of babies are born with flat feet. Feet are flexible and will become stronger as the walking process occurs. The grasping action of the toes will help the overall strength of the foot grow as children begin walking barefoot while indoors. When shoes are purchased, it is beneficial to measure the feet to determine the correct length and width. This can help in choosing the right shoe size. Additionally, it is important to make sure there is adequate room for the toes to move freely in. Potential skin problems may be reduced when the shoes are aired out overnight and clean socks are worn on a daily basis. Children may walk with their feet turned in or out, and may straighten out as they get older. If you notice any abnormal walking patterns in your children, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Dr. Thomas Tran of Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C.. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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

Read more about What to Do to Keep Your Child’s Feet Healthy
Monday, 09 December 2019 00:00

How Does Gout Form?

Gout is a foot condition that can be brought upon by the buildup of uric acid due to high levels of purines. Uric acid can increase due to hereditary conditions as well as complications with the kidneys. Certain foods to avoid that are high in purine levels include red meats, red wine, oily fish, and certain vegetables. Obesity and high blood pressure are also linked to the formation of gout. Those with gout often experience severe joint pain, swelling, redness, and sensitivity in the joints of the foot. For more information about gout and a proper diagnosis, we recommend you meet with a podiatrist to discuss your treatment options.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Thomas Tran from Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C.. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

  • Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
  • Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
  • Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
  • Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

  • Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
  • Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
  • Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
  • Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
  • Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
  • Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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

Read more about Gout

Stress fractures consist of small cracks in the bone or severe bruising within a bone, that develop most commonly from sudden increases in physical activity. For example, if a person begins exercising more often during the week for a longer duration and with a more intense workout regime, they are increasing their likelihood of obtaining a stress fracture. They can also occur due to improper form, a change in surface, or the use of poor equipment. To avoid getting a stress fracture, it is recommended to slowly introduce yourself to a new activity, make sure you’re using the proper equipment for the activity of your choice, and vary your activities to avoid over straining a particular area of your body. Swelling, tenderness, pain, and possible bruising in the foot or ankle region are a few symptoms one might experience if they have a stress fracture. To help treat your fracture it is recommended to modify your activities, use protective footwear, and practice casting. If untreated, stress fractures can lead to further foot and ankle complications, which is why we recommend you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment regime.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Dr. Thomas Tran from Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C.. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

  • Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
  • Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
  • Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
  • Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
  • Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

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

Read more about Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle
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