Items filtered by date: February 2023

Though the pinky toe is the smallest toe on the foot, the pain from a break of this toe can be enormous. Such a break can happen from tripping, falling, stubbing, or dropping something on it. A broken pinky toe might become swollen and bruised, and it will likely be sore when walking on it. Sometimes the broken toe can be taped to the toe next to it for extra stability. This is known as “buddy taping,” and a podiatrist should do this so the toe heals properly. If you see that a bone has broken through the skin or the toe looks deformed, it is imperative to get immediate medical attention. Otherwise, the broken toe will not heal in a reasonable time and the pain can worsen. If you have sustained a toe injury of any kind, it is suggested to contact a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment. 

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 the foot specialists from Academy Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctors 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 our offices located in Southlake, Keller (Fort Worth), Hurst, North Richland Hills, Flower Mound, Argyle, and Denton, TX. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Many women who are pregnant, or who are trying to become pregnant, may not already be familiar with ICP and what it means. Essentially, ICP, medically known as intrahepetic cholestasis of pregnancy, is a particular kind of liver condition that may develop during a woman’s pregnancy. As a result of the ICP, severe itching can be experienced on parts of the body, such as the soles of the feet. Interestingly, the itching as a result of ICP can be accompanied by a rash of some sort on the skin, although this is not always the case. If you are pregnant or are trying to become pregnant, consider contacting a podiatrist today. A podiatrist is a medical professional that specializes in foot health, and this doctor would be able to help you navigate the many changes that take place in the feet during pregnancy. 

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with the foot specialists from Academy Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Southlake, Keller (Fort Worth), Hurst, North Richland Hills, Flower Mound, and Argyle, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Bunions are a particular foot affliction that can alter the shape of the feet. Specifically, this condition makes it so a bony bump or protrusion develops on the side of the big toe (or, less commonly, the pinky toe). Sometimes, individuals living with bunions have a more difficult time engaging in physical activity due to the condition. Some patients are interested to know whether or not they can still ski even if they develop bunions. If the bunions are a source of pain, then squeezing them into a tight pair of ski boots might not always be an advisable option. This is compounded by the fact that skiing, especially downhill, can exert pressure on the toes. If you are someone that likes skiing and are currently struggling with bunions, contact a podiatrist to schedule an appointment today. 

If you are suffering from bunions, contact the foot specialists of Academy 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 Southlake, Keller (Fort Worth), Hurst, North Richland Hills, Flower Mound, and Argyle, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.