Items filtered by date: October 2023

Pregnancy is a memorable journey, bringing about numerous changes in the body, including those that affect the feet. While these changes are usually temporary and subside after childbirth, they can be quite uncomfortable. One common condition is edema, or swelling, which affects the feet and ankles due to increased blood volume and pressure on leg veins. This swelling can lead to discomfort and a need for larger shoe sizes during pregnancy. Another issue is overpronation, where the arches of the feet may flatten, resulting in pain and instability. Additionally, the hormone relaxin can affect the ligaments in the feet, potentially causing them to stretch and alter the foot's structure. Understanding these changes and their potential impact on foot health is essential during pregnancy. These conditions are typically temporary, but if foot pain or issues persist during or after pregnancy, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you with proper treatment and relief tips.

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 Jon McCreary, DPM from Fort Worth Podiatry. Our doctor 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 office located in Fort Worth, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A foot fracture can be a painful and distressing experience, disrupting daily life and mobility. However, the journey to recovery does not end with the diagnosis and proper aftercare is paramount. Immobilization, typically through a cast, splint, or walking boot, is essential to stabilize the foot and promote healing. Elevating the foot can help to reduce swelling and promote circulation. Pain management, as prescribed by a healthcare professional, ensures comfort during the healing process. Getting adequate rest is essential, and avoiding putting weight on the injured foot is advised. As healing progresses, gentle exercises can aid in regaining strength and mobility. Following your podiatrist's recommendations and attending follow-up appointments are vital for a smooth recovery. Patience, care, and adherence to the prescribed aftercare regimen are key to returning to normal activities with a healed foot. If you have broken your foot, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can guide you toward the correct recovery plan that is right for you.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Jon McCreary, DPM from Fort Worth Podiatry. 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 our office located in Fort Worth, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Many people are considered to be overweight or obese, which can negatively impact the feet in various ways. Carrying excess weight increases the load on the feet during weight bearing activities, and can lead to pain and injuries that discourage physical activity. Additionally, obesity may raise the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, which can harm peripheral circulation and nerve supply in the feet. This issue is not limited to adults. Childhood obesity is a growing concern, with structural and functional changes in the feet that can affect a child's current well being and may persist into adulthood. Common foot complaints related to increased weight include non specific foot pain, tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, and osteoarthritis. It is important to remember that obesity is a complex issue with various contributing factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and environmental influences. Blaming or stigmatizing individuals for their weight can be counterproductive and harmful. Instead, offering support, encouragement, and resources for maintaining a healthy lifestyle can be more effective in addressing both obesity and its related health concerns, including foot problems. If you are overweight and are experiencing foot consequences, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a compassionate podiatrist who can provide you with help in living a healthier lifestyle and relieving your foot pain.

Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact Jon McCreary, DPM from Fort Worth Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and Your Feet

Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.

Problems & Complications

Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.

Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.

Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot. 

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

Flat feet, or fallen arches, occur when the entire sole of the foot makes contact with the ground. Generally harmless, flat feet are common in children until they develop an arch at about age 6. To check for flat feet, observe the inner part of the foot while standing. If it is flat on the floor, you have flat feet. While usually not problematic, some may experience pain, stiffness, or wear on their shoes. Treatments often include wearing supportive shoes, insoles, stretches, and painkillers but rarely require surgery. Causes can vary, from genetic predisposition to conditions affecting muscles and nerves. If you experience foot pain, stiffness, or balance issues, even if the condition is only in one foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can suggest treatment options for relief.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Jon McCreary, DPM from Fort Worth Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

Heel pain is a common ailment that can be both uncomfortable and debilitating. To effectively address heel pain, it is important to understand its underlying causes, as they can vary widely. One prevalent culprit is plantar fasciitis, a condition marked by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. This condition often results from overuse, poor footwear choices, or excessive strain on the foot's arch. Achilles tendinitis is another leading cause of heel pain, stemming from inflammation of the Achilles tendon, located at the back of the heel. This condition can be triggered by intense physical activity, tight calf muscles, or inadequate warm-up routines. Heel spurs, bony growths on the heel bone, can also lead to discomfort, though they may not always be painful. Stress fractures, arthritis, nerve irritation, and obesity are additional factors that can contribute to heel pain. Wearing unsupportive shoes and making abrupt increases in physical activity levels can exacerbate these conditions. To effectively manage heel pain, it is essential to identify the specific cause through proper diagnosis. Treatment options may include rest, stretching exercises, orthotic devices, or, in some cases, medical interventions, depending on the severity and root cause of the pain. If you are experiencing heel pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can diagnose the cause and offer a treatment plan that is right for you. 

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Jon McCreary, DPM of Fort Worth Podiatry. 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 contact our office located in Fort Worth, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.