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Custom orthotics provide numerous advantages for athletes, which can profoundly impact their performance and physical well-being. These specialized insoles are tailored to the individual's unique foot structure and biomechanics, offering a precise fit that cannot be achieved with off-the-shelf alternatives. One of the primary benefits of custom orthotics is foot and ankle pain reduction. They distribute weight evenly, align bones and muscles, and alleviate stress on sensitive or injured areas. Moreover, custom orthotics promote enhanced athletic performance by ensuring proper foot alignment, preventing muscle overcompensation, and absorbing shock during physical activities. This not only aids endurance but also supports the knees, hips, and back. Furthermore, these personalized inserts significantly lower the risk of sports-related injuries by addressing specific biomechanical issues and providing tailored support. If you are an athlete seeking to improve your comfort and performance, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss whether custom orthotics can help you.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Frank Henry, DPM from Marble Falls, TX. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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

Shockwave therapy is a potential treatment for chronic foot pain problems, including plantar fasciitis and calcific tendonitis. It uses shockwaves delivered to the body to stimulate healing in affected tissues. There are high-energy and low-energy forms of this therapy. Low-energy shockwave treatment involves a series of sessions that are not very painful. In contrast, high-energy shockwave treatment is typically done in one session and can be quite painful, often requiring anesthesia. This therapy induces microtrauma to the affected tissue, triggering a healing response, increased blood vessel formation, and nutrient delivery to the area. It can relieve pain and promote tissue repair. Shockwave therapy is noninvasive, making it an attractive option for more challenging conditions. There are studies that support its effectiveness, particularly for calcific tendonitis and plantar fasciitis, with minimal reported complications. While more conservative measures may be tried first, it is considered a safe alternative to surgery for patients with chronic plantar fasciitis who have not responded to standard treatments. If you are at a point where more traditional treatments have not relieved pain from chronic foot conditions and surgery is being considered, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss whether shockwave therapy might be a possible alternative for you.

Shockwave therapy is a treatment commonly used to treat various injuries and conditions, particularly plantar fasciitis in the feet. To learn more, consult with Frank Henry, DPM from Marble Falls, TX. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy is a new treatment option designed to treat bone conditions such as tennis elbow, shoulder pain, and others. Shockwave therapy uses high intensity sound waves that are directed to the affected tissues of the body with pinpoint accuracy. The effects are very beneficial, leading to a production of collagen fibers, eliminating inflammation.

Who Benefits from Shockwave?

Shockwave is recommended for patients suffering from heel pain and associated problems. Heel pain is a common condition which can be caused by obesity, overexertion, and spending a substantial amount of time on hard floors with your feet exposed and unsupported.

Fast and Easy

The therapy is actually a simple process that can leave patients feeling better the very next day. Shockwave therapy is not as dramatic as it sounds. It enables more blood flow to effected areas, addressing the source of the problem and allowing treatment to last for a long time.

Treatment & Recovery Time

Shockwave treatment will enable your feet to recover quickly. This is especially important since surgery is not required. It is cost effective and does not require the use of anesthesia. This treatment is a better option to surgery, since it is proven safe.

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

Diabetes affects many people and may cause health conditions like foot ulcers to develop. If left untreated, foot ulcers can become gangrenous and in severe cases, lead to amputation. Type 2, or adult-onset, diabetes, is often linked to obesity and lifestyle factors. Obese individuals with diabetes are more apt to find it challenging to maintain healthy lifestyles, including proper eating and exercise, and may need assistance. In addition to the psychological distress this condition causes, it can also severely impact one’s overall health. If you are obese or have diabetes, and it is affecting your feet, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist as soon as possible to get the care and support needed to maintain your health.

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 Frank Henry, DPM from Marble Falls, TX. 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 Marble Falls, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

In the bustling rhythm of daily life, our feet often bear the brunt of our activities, yet they are often neglected when it comes to self care. Establishing a robust foot care routine, however, unveils a cascade of remarkable benefits. Regular exfoliation and moisturization not only soften the skin but also prevent unsightly issues such as calluses and cracked heels. This routine is not just about aesthetics, as it nurtures the foundation of our body's mobility. A soothing foot soak not only relaxes tired muscles but promotes blood circulation, enhancing overall well being. A well maintained foot care routine can improve posture and alleviate potential joint pain. If you would like to learn more about the benefits of practicing every day foot care routines, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide you with important information.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Frank Henry, DPM from Marble Falls, TX. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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

Bunions, also known as hallux valgus, are bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe. This condition occurs when the big toe pushes against the adjacent toe, causing the joint to move out of alignment. There are various reasons why bunions can develop. Genetics play a significant role, as individuals with a family history of bunions are more likely to develop them. Wearing ill-fitting shoes, especially those with narrow toe boxes, can exacerbate the condition. As bunions progress, symptoms become more pronounced. Common signs include pain, swelling, redness, and stiffness around the affected joint. Corns and calluses may develop due to friction from overlapping toes. As a bunion worsens, the shape of the foot may change, possibly affecting balance and walking patterns. Early detection and appropriate measures, such as wearing supportive footwear and using padding or orthotic inserts, can help manage symptoms and prevent further deformity. If you have a bunion, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can provide you with relief and treatment options that are right for you.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Frank Henry, DPM of Marble Falls, TX. 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 Marble Falls, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation or lateral plantar neuritis, is a relatively rare and painful condition that affects the cuboid bone in the foot. The cuboid bone is a cube-shaped bone located on the outer side of the foot, forming a vital part of the foot's structure and stability. Cuboid syndrome can be caused by various reasons. The cuboid bone can shift out of alignment by rolling or twisting the ankle or it can happen from overuse or repetitive stress. This is a common condition among ballet dancers, as a result of this type of dance style. Having poor foot biomechanics such as flat feet, overpronation, or other foot abnormalities also can disrupt the cuboid's positioning. Wearing shoes that do not fit properly can contribute to developing cuboid syndrome as well. Common symptoms include pain on the lateral side of the foot, difficulty in walking, and discomfort while bearing weight. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can aid in resolving cuboid syndrome effectively. If you have pain on the outside of your foot, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and treatment options. 

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with Frank Henry, DPM from Marble Falls, TX. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

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

Foot neuropathy is characterized by nerve damage affecting foot sensation and function. It can result from various underlying conditions, including diabetes, alcohol abuse, vitamin deficiencies, and certain medications. As foot neuropathy progresses, individuals may experience tingling, burning sensations, numbness, or weakness in their feet. Over time, this condition can lead to foot ulcers, infections, and difficulties with maintaining balance and walking. The treatment of foot neuropathy depends on its cause and severity. Approaches may include managing the underlying condition, administering medications to control pain or nerve inflammation, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications. If you are experiencing this discomfort, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who is well-versed in dealing with this condition.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Frank Henry, DPM from Marble Falls, TX. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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

Many people incorporate appropriate leg exercises into their running regime, but may neglect their feet. The feet are the foundation of the body and provide balance and mobility for everyday activities. It is important for the feet to maintain strength, and this can be helpful in preventing painful injuries. Weak foot muscles may affect the arch and can result in plantar fasciitis, which causes severe pain and discomfort. Popular foot strengthening exercises consist of picking up marbles or curling a towel with the toes. These exercises can benefit both local and global muscles, and may lead to having a pain-free running experience. Many runners perform what is referred to as the short foot exercise. This is done by sitting in a chair with their feet on the floor, while bringing the ball of the foot toward the heel. It is important to refrain from crunching the toes, and this may help to shorten the specific muscles and ultimately strengthen the arch. If you would like more information about the importance of exercising the feet, it is suggested to visit a podiatrist.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Frank Henry, DPM from Marble Falls, TX. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctor to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

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