Bunions are characterized by a noticeable bump on the side of the big toe, resulting from an abnormality in the foot bones that causes the big toe to lean toward the second toe instead of remaining straight. While some bunions may initially be painless, over time they can lead to toe crowding and discomfort, potentially causing permanent deformity. Genetics play a significant role in the development of bunions, as they are often associated with faulty foot structure inherited from family members. Other contributing factors include flat feet, excessively flexible ligaments, and abnormal bone structure. Symptoms of a bunion may include red and inflamed skin, thickened skin on the underside of the big toe, calluses on the second toe, foot pain, and limited flexibility in the big toe. If you have a bunion with persistent foot pain, decreased flexibility, and difficulty finding comfortable shoes, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can assess the severity of the bunion and provide treatment options.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, 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?

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 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.

A fungal nail infection often begins subtly, showing up as a small change in color or texture on one nail. Over time, the nail may thicken, become brittle, or develop a yellow or white appearance. Some people notice a slight odor or feel pressure in the toe when wearing closed shoes. Although the condition is not usually painful at first, it can progress and spread to other nails, if it is not addressed. Warm, moist environments such as locker rooms, areas around pools, and sweaty shoes make it easier for fungi to thrive, which is why prevention and early care matter. Treating the infection can take time because the nail must grow out fully, but timely attention supports better results and healthier feet. If you see persistent changes in a toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for proper evaluation and appropriate treatment.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, 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.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

If you have any questions please 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 and ankle needs.

Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition that affects the ball of the foot, most often between the third and fourth toes. It occurs when the tissue around one of the nerves leading to the toes thickens due to irritation or pressure. Common causes include wearing tight or high heeled shoes, repetitive stress, or foot structure issues, such as flat feet. Symptoms include burning pain in the ball of the foot, tingling or numbness in the toes, and the feeling of standing on a pebble or having a fold in the sock. The foot may look normal but can feel tender and uncomfortable when walking or wearing certain shoes. A podiatrist can diagnose Morton’s neuroma through physical examination, imaging tests, and evaluating footwear and activity habits. Treatment includes shoe modifications, custom orthotics, anti-inflammatory injections, or in some cases, minor surgery. If you experience these symptoms, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and relief. 

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact the foot specialists of Academy Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctors 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.

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.

Diabetic foot ulcers are open sores or wounds that develop on the feet due to poor circulation and nerve damage caused by diabetes. They progress through several stages, beginning with normal healthy skin, followed by a high-risk stage where the skin becomes vulnerable. The ulcerated stage involves a visible sore, while the infection stage occurs when bacteria enter the wound. The necrotic stage is marked by dead tissue and severe damage. A podiatrist can help by cleaning and dressing the wound, improving circulation, prescribing medication, and creating a care plan to prevent further complications. If you have diabetes and notice any foot changes or sores, it is strongly suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with the foot specialists from Academy Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions please 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 and ankle needs.