Bone spurs can form on any joint, but the feet are a common location, especially for patients who are 60 years old or above. The reason for this is that bone spurs, medically known as osteophytes, generally take years to grow. They are most often found on the ankle, heel, or big toe. Bone spurs form when bones rub against each other, which is generally the result of wear and tear of a joint, combined with the loss of the cartilage that separates the bones. People with osteoarthritis frequently develop bone spurs. Young athletes may develop bone spurs from injuries that occur during sports. Symptoms of a bone spur include aching pain that worsens with activity, swelling, tingling and numbness, or stiffness. In many cases, however, bone spurs may form without displaying any symptoms at all. An X-ray is thought to be the best way to determine if you have a bone spur. Treatment for bone spurs may include wearing protective padding in the shoes, having cortisone injections, losing weight, and doing certain foot exercises. In some cases, surgery may be a remedy. For more information on how to deal with bone spurs, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist.

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.

Breaking any bone in the body should never be taken lightly. The toes of the feet are no exception. When an individual breaks their toe, they may experience any number of unpleasant symptoms, such as pain, swelling, and bruising. If you have broken your toe, you might seek health attention from a trusted medical professional, such as a podiatrist. This ought to be done especially if your broken toe is accompanied by bleeding or sensations of numbness. Additionally, if a broken toe appears to be pointing the incorrect way or there is discoloration, these are usually signs that immediate medical attention be sought. If any of this information applies to you or a loved one, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today for 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 Dean Kim, DPM from Greater Texas Foot & Ankle Specialist. Our doctor 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 office located in Frisco, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete’s foot is a common condition that can be uncomfortable and is caused by a fungus that lives in moist environments. These can include shower room floors, public swimming pools, and similar areas. Athlete's foot is contagious so it is beneficial to wear appropriate shoes such as flip flops or water shoes in these areas. Further, it is helpful to refrain from sharing shoes, towels, or socks, as this may help to reduce the spread of athlete’s foot. There are a few categories of athlete's foot, therefore, the symptoms may vary. Itchy, cracked skin between the fourth and fifth toes may indicate a toe web infection that may worsen if a bacterial infection develops. A moccasin-type infection may begin with a sore foot, followed by thickened skin on the heel. If blisters develop it might be a vesicular infection which can appear anywhere on the foot. If you have symptoms of athlete's foot, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer you the correct treatment methods.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Dean Kim, DPM from Greater Texas Foot & Ankle Specialist. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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.

Stress fractures can occur in the bones of the feet when tiny cracks develop over an extended period due to repetitive force. When determining if a person is able to engage in exercise when recovering from a stress fracture, a medical professional will have to assess the particular circumstances of the individual’s unique case. If the stress fracture is not too severe, your medical professional might suggest engaging in a range of motion exercise. These specific exercises can improve mobility in the foot and ankle region. They should also not cause the patient any pain. Alternatively, someone recovering from a stress fracture might be able to engage in strengthening exercises to rebuild strength in the muscles of the feet. If you are suffering from a stress fracture in the feet, it is recommended that you contact a podiatrist today for treatment and advice. 

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Dean Kim, DPM from Greater Texas Foot & Ankle Specialist. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                  
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate 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 and ankle needs.

Flip flops are popular shoes to wear in the spring and summer months. They are easy to slip on and off and are available in various colors. Despite the simplicity of wearing these types of shoes, research has shown they may not be ideal for overall foot health. The feet work differently in shoes that do not have a back, forcing the toes to grip the front of the shoe. They can have a negative impact on the arch, and heel pain may develop. There may be tension in the front of the ankle and the toes, and performing specific stretches may help to reduce it. A calf stretch is effective in properly stretching the heel and Achilles tendon. This is done by standing on a step and lowering the heels one at a time until a gentle stretch is felt. There are other alternatives to wearing flip flops, and if you are interested in learning about what type of shoes these are, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can provide you with the correct information.

Flip-flops can cause a lot of problems for your feet. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dean Kim, DPM from Greater Texas Foot & Ankle Specialist. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

Flip-flops have managed to become a summer essential for a lot of people. While the shoes may be stylish and easy to slip on and off, they can be dangerous to those who wear them too often. These shoes might protect you from fungal infections such as athlete’s foot, but they can also give you foot pain and sprained ankles if you trip while wearing them.

When Are They Okay to Wear?

Flip-flops should only be worn for very short periods of time. They can help protect your feet in places that are crawling with fungi, such as gym locker rooms. Athlete’s foot and plantar warts are two common fungi that flip-flops may help protect your feet against.

Why Are They Bad for My Feet?

These shoes do not offer any arch support, so they are not ideal for everyday use. They also do not provide shock absorption or heel cushioning which can be problematic for your feet. Additionally, you may suffer from glass cuts, puncture wounds, and stubbed toes since they offer little protection for your feet.

More Reasons Why They Are Bad for Your Feet

• They Slow You Down
• May Cause Blisters and Calluses
• Expose Your Feet to Bacteria

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.

When arthritis develops in the foot, the toes are the most often affected. Arthritis is defined as chronic inflammation that is often accompanied by tenderness, swelling, stiffness, and pain. Toe arthritis is caused by gradual wear and tear of the cartilage. This is what cushions the bones that surround the joints, and is found in two forms of arthritis. Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common form of this condition, in addition to rheumatoid arthritis (RA), which is an autoimmune disease. The bottom of the big toe can become sore with arthritis, and may become worse while walking and standing. The range of motion may be limited, and this may be a result of the loss of cartilage between the bones. Treatment for arthritis can begin after a diagnosis has confirmed it. There are various types of relief that can be found, and it may start by wearing high-quality shoes. If you are afflicted with arthritis in the feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can offer you treatment solutions that are best for you.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, 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.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

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.

A bunion can be caused for various reasons, including genetic factors, aging, and choosing shoes that do not have enough room for the toes to move freely in. Wearing tight shoes may cause a bony protrusion on the side of the big toe, which may push the other toes toward each other. The medical term for a bunion is referred to as hallux valgus, which is considered a deformity. Protruding bunions may cause pain and pressure, and medical attention is often sought for relief. Calluses and corns may form on top of the toes due to the foot touching the top or side of the shoe. Prevention methods for bunions can be implemented by wearing shoes with adequate room in the toe area, and walking barefoot can help to strengthen the overall foot. If you have developed a bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer you additional relief options. 

If you are suffering from bunion pain, 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.

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.

People who enjoy running can experience many benefits including increased endorphins. Conversely, avid runners may see they have developed cracked heels, which can cause pain and discomfort while making it difficult to run. There are generally four stages that runners see when developing cracked heels, which begin with their feet becoming red, sensitive, and dry. This can be followed by an itchy and burning sensation, which can lead to cracked and peeling skin. If treatment is not started, the cracks in the skin may begin to bleed, causing the feet to look unattractive. A common reason for cracked heels to develop is a lack of hydration of the skin. Cracked heels found in runners are often increased as a result of the impact of running, and from wearing socks and shoes that may become sweaty. If you have developed this foot condition, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can guide you toward the treatment method that is correct for you.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. 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

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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.