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The Tarsal Tunnel is a narrow opening in the ankle that leads arteries, veins, tendons, and nerves to the foot. Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome occurs when the tibial nerve is squeezed anywhere along this tunnel. While flat feet lead to a higher risk of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome, an injury, diabetes, or an abnormal structure like a bone growth, can all lead to the compression or squeezing of the nerve. Symptoms are usually felt in the ankle or bottom of the foot and include a tingling or burning sensation, numbness, and shooting pain. In order to prevent permanent damage to the nerve, it is important to have Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome diagnosed by a podiatrist as soon as possible. A podiatrist will be able to diagnose the extent of the injury and determine the best course of treatment that may include surgery, therapy, orthotic devices, or simply rest.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, 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.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

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 hammertoe is observed, it looks like it is bent in an unusual position. It typically affects the second and third toe. The middle joint shifts upward, which forces the toe to bend downward. This condition can happen as a result of genetic factors, wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in, or from specific medical conditions. Effective treatment and prevention techniques can include wearing shoes that are large enough to accommodate the hammertoe, and wearing a protective covering over the affected toe. In severe cases, performing surgery may be necessary which can permanently straighten the toes. If you notice signs you may have developed a hammertoe, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Frank Henry, DPM of Marble Falls, TX. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

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.

There are several noticeable signs that can indicate a toenail fungus has developed. These can consist of nails that have become brittle, yellowed, thick, and may even lift off of the nail bed. The fungus that causes these types of infections lives and thrives in warm and moist environments. These can include public swimming pools, communal showers, locker rooms, and surrounding areas. Nails can easily become infected while frequenting similar types of public places, and it is beneficial to wear appropriate shoes if you choose to be in these areas. Patients who have existing medical conditions may be more prone to experience toenail fungus. These can consist of diabetes, athlete’s foot, or it may occur as a result of a nail injury. If you notice any of the above symptoms, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can offer you correct treatment options.

For more information about treatment, 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.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

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.

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that impacts the nervous system, often causing complications with the feet. If the nerves in your feet become damaged, they are no longer able to regulate your body temperature, or signal pain as they normally would. Those afflicted with this condition relay experiencing tingling sensations, or numbness in their feet. Neuropathy can be common among diabetic patients, as they are more prone to having complications with their feet. This can be dangerous if wounds go undetected due to the lack of feeling in the feet, as it’s likely an infection may then form. If diagnosed with this condition, medication may be prescribed to help ease the common symptoms. Having a healthy diet, keeping your muscles active and strong, and regularly getting massages or acupuncture may also be helpful in relieving some of the symptoms. For a proper diagnosis and an advised treatment plan, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist for professional care.

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.

When pressure is put on the joint of the big toe over a period of time, the foot condition referred to as a bunion may develop. This condition, or foot deformity, appears as a bump on the side of the big toe. One of the most common causes of this deformity is ill-fitting or tightly worn footwear. Existing conditions may also factor into the development of a bunion. Flat feet, gout, injury to the foot, and connective tissue or neuromuscular disorders may all increase the risk of developing a bunion. Bunions can be rather painful, often causing discomfort when wearing shoes or walking. This condition can also cause the big toe to feel numb, as well become red and inflamed. For more information on how to treat a bunion, please speak with a podiatrist for professional advice.

If you are suffering from bunions, 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?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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.

Broken toes can cause pain, discomfort, and difficulty with walking. Many broken toes are not severe, and can heal properly with the correct treatment method. This ailment may occur from dropping a heavy object on the toe, or from stubbing it on a piece of furniture. The toes have small bones that are located on the outer edge of the body, which can make them vulnerable to outside forces. There are noticeable symptoms that develop with broken toes. These can include swelling, bruising, and they can look displaced if the fracture is severe. For mild cases of broken toes, an effective method known as buddy taping may be implemented. This consists of taping the affected toe to the toe next to it, which may help to keep it stable. This can generally help the toe to heal properly. If you feel you have broken your toe, please consult  with a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.

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

If you work in a profession that requires being on your feet for the majority of the day, it’s often likely you will experience some sort of foot pain. These professions may include nurses, teachers, waiters, and mail carriers, to name a few. Lower-limb muscle fatigue and achy feet are common symptoms of working on your feet for extended periods of time throughout the day. To find relief from the discomfort or pain, it may be beneficial to wear custom orthotics or insoles to help provide you with sufficient support and cushion. If your work requires you to be on your feet for several hours of the day, it’s suggested you consult with a podiatrist who can provide you with care and treatment for any associated foot pain you may be experiencing.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Frank Henry, DPM from Marble Falls, TX. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

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.

The joints of the big toe are generally impacted by the medical condition that is referred to as gout. Common symptoms can include swelling, severe pain and discomfort in the big toe and surrounding area, and it may be difficult to walk. Patients who have this ailment often describe the pain as feeling like crystals protruding between the joints. This happens as a result of excess uric acid in the bloodstream, and can be caused by a variety of reasons. These can include genetic factors, obesity, and high blood pressure. Additionally, it may come from eating foods that are high in purine levels, which may often consist of red meat, shellfish, and sugary drinks. If you have this painful condition, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage it.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Frank Henry, DPM from Marble Falls, TX. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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.