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Psoriatic arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes pain, stiffness, and swelling in your joints. This particular type of arthritis affects 10-30% of people who have psoriasis, a skin condition characterized by the formation of dry, scaly, itchy patches of skin. Psoriatic arthritis often affects the small joints of the feet. It can also cause enthesitis, inflammation in the areas where the tendons or ligaments connect to bones. This often occurs in the Achilles tendon or the plantar fascia along the bottom of the foot, and makes the areas tender, swollen, and painful. If you have psoriatic arthritis in your feet or ankles, a podiatrist can help you manage and maintain your foot health.

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

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 Marble Falls, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive treatment that pulses high-energy sound waves through a hand-held device onto the site of pain, which permeate into underlying damaged tissue to reduce pain, stimulate tissue growth, and accelerate the healing process. ESWT has been used to treat foot and ankle conditions such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and more. Since ESWT is a treatment that is administered outside of the body (extra corporeally), it is an alternative to surgery which may offer pain relief and faster healing along with a shorter recovery time. Individuals who are pregnant, have a pacemaker, take certain medications, or have medical conditions such as neuropathy are not good candidates for ESWT. If you have chronic pain in your foot or ankle that has not responded to other treatments, it is suggested you contact a podiatrist who will perform an examination and determine if ESWT is an option 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.

When a nerve swells and becomes inflamed, it is known as a neuroma. Morton's neuroma occurs when this swelling and inflammation affects the nerve between the metatarsal bones of the third and fourth toes. When the nerves get trapped between these bones, pain usually occurs in the ball of the foot or the toes. Pain may become worse if tight fitting shoes are worn, such as high heels. Other symptoms include a burning, stabbing, or shooting pain, the feeling of a small stone stuck under the foot, or a tingling, numb feeling in the foot. Patients who are struggling with pain in the foot and believe it’s due to Morton's neuroma should consult with a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Frank Henry, DPM of Marble Falls, TX. Our doctor 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 office located in Marble Falls, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

When it comes to the health and comfort of your feet, wearing the right shoe size is very important. You can have your feet measured at the shoe store by using a brannock device, but you can also measure your feet at home. Follow these steps to measure your feet in the comfort of your home. First, tape two blank pieces of paper to the floor. Sit in a chair and place one foot on one of the pieces of paper. Using a pencil, trace the outline of your foot closely, holding the pencil perpendicular to the paper rather than at an angle. Once you're done tracing, draw straight lines touching the outermost points at the top, bottom, and sides of your tracing. Next, use a ruler or measuring tape to measure the length and width of your feet. Repeat these steps with your other foot. If your feet are different sizes, this is normal. Use the foot with the larger measurements when looking at a sizing chart to convert your foot’s length and width into the appropriate shoe size. For more information about how to find the right shoe size, consult with a podiatrist. 

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Frank Henry, DPM from Marble Falls, TX. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

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.

When friction from a shoe or sock rubbing against your skin causes the epidermis (top) layer and dermis (underlying) layer of skin to move in opposite directions, the skin becomes irritated, red, and inflamed. Continued friction will cause the epidermis and dermis to separate and fill with fluid or blood, and a blister is formed. Pain from a blister is caused when nerves are stimulated by the fluid. You can help stop blisters from occurring by wearing shoes that fit properly and don’t allow your feet to slip around or rub against them. New shoes or boots should be worn in properly and gradually—before wearing them all day. If you are planning a long walk or hike, you can try taping areas on the foot that are prone to blisters such as the back of the heel, the big toe and the little toe. A podiatrist can show you how to tape your feet properly and also create custom orthotics designed specifically to keep your feet from developing blisters. They can even suggest appropriate footwear for walking and running.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, 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.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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.

If you find yourself with dry, cracked heels, home treatment is often enough to manage this problem and find relief. Moisturizing the feet regularly is important for maintaining smooth, hydrated skin. Following a bath or shower, coat your feet and heels with a moisturizing cream or lotion. Then, put on a pair of clean, dry socks to lock in the added moisture. You can also exfoliate your feet in the shower using a pumice stone to help remove dead, dry skin. If home remedies do not relieve your cracked heels, or if the cracks are deep, painful, or show signs of infection, please seek the care of a podiatrist.

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

The calcaneus, or heel bone, and its supporting fat pad, tendons and ligaments bear the brunt of the body’s weight and impact, while absorbing the stress of walking and running. For this reason, it is not uncommon for people of all ages and lifestyles to develop heel pain. Children and adolescents can develop Sever’s Disease when the growth plate of the calcaneus is repeatedly stressed due to growth spurts or physical activity. Plantar fasciitis (inflammation of the tissue on the bottom of the foot from heel-to-toe) and Achilles tendonitis (inflammation of the tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone) can occur at any age, but is most common among adults. Whatever your lifestyle or age, contact a podiatrist if you or someone you love is experiencing any type of heel pain.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, 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.

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

The feet are susceptible to a variety of ailments, and foot pain can impact all of our daily activities.  Foot pain can impact the heel, arch, top of the foot, and even the ball of the foot.  Plantar fasciitis is the most common source of heel pain, and the result of inflammation or a strain on the ligament connecting the toes to the heel.  Plantar fasciitis can also lead to heel spurs which are bony growths that are formed under the heel because of calcium buildups.  Bunions are bumps on the bottom of the big toe that occur when the big toe is pulled towards the rest of the foot.  Hammer toes occur when the toes stay bent at the joints which can lead to painful corns and calluses.  Diabetic patients are prone to developing neuropathy, which results in a tingling and burning sensation in the feet.  Because of the variety of potential injuries, patients who are suffering from pain in the feet should visit with a podiatrist for a diagnosis.   

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Frank Henry, DPM from Marble Falls, TX. 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 Marble Falls, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.