Podiatrists are medical professionals specializing in the care of the feet, ankles, and lower extremities. They play a vital role in keeping people on their feet and pain-free. A podiatrist's job description includes diagnosing and treating a wide range of foot and ankle conditions, from common issues such as ingrown toenails and plantar warts to more complex problems consisting of fractures and chronic conditions like diabetes-related foot complications. Podiatrists may perform surgeries, prescribe medication, and provide guidance on how to choose proper footwear. Preventive care is also a significant aspect of their work, as they educate patients on foot health and methods to prevent future problems. Their expertise extends to analyzing how a person's feet and lower limbs impact their overall health, making them an essential part of the healthcare system and instrumental in enhancing people's quality of life. If you are interested in learning about what the role of a podiatrist is, it is suggested that you contact this type of doctor who can provide you with the knowledge you are seeking.

If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact Dean Kim, DPM from Greater Texas Foot & Ankle Specialist. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.

What Do Podiatrists Do?

On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:

• Diagnose foot ailments such as ulcers, tumors, fractures, etc.
• Use innovative methods to treat conditions
• Use corrective orthotics, casts, and strappings to correct deformities
• Correct walking patterns and balance
• Provide individual consultations to patients

It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.

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.

Nighttime foot cramps are a common and disruptive issue, affecting up to 60 percent of adults. They can be caused by inactivity, poor posture, and sleeping positions that restrict blood flow and compress nerves. Overexerting foot muscles through excessive activity or fatigue can lead to muscle cramping, as can wearing improper footwear or working on hard surfaces. Dehydration, often from inadequate water intake or illness, can result in foot muscle cramps due to electrolyte imbalances. Nutrient deficiencies, particularly in vitamins B-12, thiamin, folate, magnesium, and potassium, can lead to nerve damage and cause cramps. Excessive alcohol use may cause nerve damage and alcoholic neuropathy that may contribute to foot cramps. Pregnancy, especially in the later stages, can bring on leg and foot cramps, possibly due to increased weight and nutritional deficiencies. Certain health conditions like peripheral arterial disease, kidney disease, anemia, and diabetes can also be associated with nighttime foot cramps. If your foot cramps occur frequently and do not improve even after making adjustments to your routine, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. This specialist in foot and ankle care can perform a thorough evaluation, provide you with a proper diagnosis, and recommend treatment options to alleviate your discomfort. 

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dean Kim, DPM from Greater Texas Foot & Ankle Specialist. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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.

Plantar warts, painful growths that appear on the soles of the feet, can be an unwelcome annoyance. However, there are effective ways to treat and prevent this viral infection. To tackle existing plantar warts, salicylic acid prescribed by a podiatrist may gradually help to dissolve the wart tissue. For stubborn or painful warts, a podiatrist can recommend cryotherapy, laser therapy, or surgical removal. To prevent plantar warts, maintaining proper foot hygiene is essential. Keep your feet clean and dry, and avoid walking barefoot in public places to minimize exposure to infection. Wear shoes that fit well, and change your socks daily. If you have a cut or scrape on your foot, cover it with a bandage to prevent the virus from entering. Finally, boost your immune system through a healthy diet, exercise, and stress management, as a strong immune system can help ward off the human papilloma virus, or HPV, responsible for these warts. If you have developed a plantar wart, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can provide appropriate relief treatments.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Dean Kim, DPM from Greater Texas Foot & Ankle Specialist. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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.

Swollen ankles and feet can be a perplexing and uncomfortable issue, often signaling an underlying problem. Several factors can contribute to this condition. One common cause is fluid retention, which can result from sitting or standing for extended periods, high salt intake, or hormonal changes. Additionally, injuries like sprains or strains can lead to localized swelling. Medical conditions, such as heart disease, kidney disease, or venous insufficiency, may also contribute to swollen ankles and feet due to impaired circulation or fluid buildup. Infections, inflammation, or certain medications can play a role as well. Lastly, pregnancy can lead to increased fluid retention and pressure on blood vessels, causing swelling in the lower extremities. Understanding these potential causes is essential for effective management and relief from swollen ankles and feet. If your feet and ankles have become swollen, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can determine what the cause and offer effective relief remedies.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Dean Kim, DPM of Greater Texas Foot & Ankle Specialist. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

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

Runners know the importance of a good pair of shoes that help to clock in the miles comfortably and safely. But like any other piece of equipment, running shoes have a lifespan. If you are wondering whether it is time to bid farewell to your old shoes, here are some signs to look out for. First, pay attention to the wear and tear on the soles. If the treads are worn down, especially in specific areas, this can lead to reduced traction and increased risk of slipping or injury. Second, listen to your body. If you are experiencing unexplained pain in your feet, ankles, or knees, worn-out shoes could be the cause. They may no longer provide the necessary support and cushioning, which causes stress on your joints. Running shoes typically have a life span of 300 to 500 miles, depending on various factors. If you have surpassed this range, it is time to shop for a new pair. If you need guidance in the life span and safety of your running shoes, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation.  

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dean Kim, DPM of Greater Texas Foot & Ankle Specialist. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

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.

A broken toe is a common injury, and can cause difficulty if it does not heal. Several factors can contribute to a broken toe that doesn’t mend as expected. Misdiagnosis can sometimes occur, where a toe injury may be more severe than initially believed. This may lead to a delayed diagnosis or inadequate treatment. Additionally, tiny hairline fractures, known as stress fractures, can be challenging to detect, and may not heal properly if not identified. Poor immobilization, with inadequately fitted splints or casts, can hinder the healing process. Medical conditions, such as diabetes or vascular disease, can slow down the healing process. Also, continuous stress on the broken toe, such as excessive walking or standing, can impede proper healing. Lastly, untreated or undetected infections in or around the broken toe can further obstruct the healing process. If you are dealing with a broken toe that does not seem to be healing, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist promptly. This medically trained foot doctor can identify the underlying cause and recommend a treatment plan appropriate to the cause.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dean Kim, DPM from Greater Texas Foot & Ankle Specialist. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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.

Cracked heels, a common foot ailment, can be both unsightly and uncomfortable. These painful fissures occur when the skin on the heels becomes dry and thick, and loses its natural elasticity. While cracked heels may seem like a cosmetic concern, ignoring them can lead to infection or more severe issues if left untreated. Several factors contribute to the development of cracked heels. The primary cause is inadequate moisture, often made worse by dry weather, excessive foot soaking, or harsh soaps that strip the skin of its natural oils. Overweight individuals and those who stand for prolonged periods may also be more susceptible due to increased pressure on the heels. Treating cracked heels involves a multifaceted approach. Hydration is key, so moisturize your feet regularly with a thick, emollient foot cream. Exfoliate gently using a pumice stone to remove dead skin. Wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes with proper arch support to alleviate pressure. If you have developed cracked heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who may recommend prescription creams or therapies to address underlying issues. 

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Dean Kim, DPM from Greater Texas Foot & Ankle Specialist. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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.

Our feet and ankles are marvels of engineering, combining intricate structures to support our weight and facilitate movement. The remarkable anatomy of the foot consists of 26 bones, comprising the tarsal, metatarsal, and phalangeal bones, forming arches that provide stability and flexibility. Ligaments connect these bones, acting like tough rubber bands to hold the structure together. Meanwhile, muscles and tendons play a crucial role in moving the foot and toes. The ankle joint forms where the lower leg meets the foot, connecting the tibia and fibula to the talus bone. Ligaments here ensure stability, while the Achilles tendon at the back enables powerful movements, such as running and jumping. Understanding the intricate web of bones, ligaments, muscles, and tendons in your feet and ankles can help you appreciate their importance. If you would like additional knowledge about the biomechanics of the feet and ankles, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dean Kim, DPM from Greater Texas Foot & Ankle Specialist. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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.