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Many people enjoy running and jogging, and they are aware of the importance of choosing the right running shoe. There are many styles and options available on the market that can make it overwhelming to decide which shoe is right for you.  However, there are basic considerations that can help to make it easier to choose which can be determined by what kind of running you enjoy. Patients who prefer fast running may benefit from wearing a lightweight shoe. Average running on pavements and roads may be accomplished with a normal running shoe. It is also beneficial to have more than one pair of shoes because this may help extend the life of the shoe. If you would like additional information about what style running shoes you should purchase, please consult with a podiatrist.

You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, 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.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.

Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe

• Make sure you have a thumb’s width of wiggle room between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
• There should be little to no slipping at the heel
• Don’t assume your size in one shoe brand will be your size in another
• Do not lace up your shoes too tightly
• Walk around in the store with your new shoes before you buy them

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

When buying new running shoes, it is important to consider the distance you plan to run. For shorter distances, you may want to opt for lightweight shoes. For longer distances, your foot may require a shoe with more support and extra cushioning in the sole. The type of surface that you run on should also be considered. As your stride along the grip may change depending on the terrain. For this reason it is said not to wear the same running shoes on the road as you would for trail running. When you are ready to purchase running shoes, it is a good idea to go shopping in the late afternoon. Your feet naturally swell throughout the day. By shopping later in the day when your feet are at their largest, you can ensure that the shoes will not be too small or tight when you run. For more tips and tricks about finding the right running shoes, please consult with a podiatrist.

It is important to find shoes that fit you properly in order to avoid a variety of different 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

Shoes have many different functions. They cushion our body weight, protect our feet, and allow us to safely play sports. You should always make sure that the shoes you wear fit you properly in order to avoid injuries and deformities such as: bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and more. It is important to note that although a certain pair of shoes might be a great fit for someone else, that doesn’t mean they will be a great fit for you. This is why you should always try on shoes before buying them to make sure they are worth the investment. Typically, shoes need to be replaced ever six months to one year of regular use.

Tips for Proper Shoe Fitting

• Select a shoe that is shaped like your foot
• Don’t buy shoes that fit too tight, expecting them to stretch to fit
• Make sure there is enough space (3/8” to ½”) for your longest toe at the end of each shoe when you are standing up
• Walk in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right
• Don’t select shoes by the size marked inside the shoe, but by how the shoe fits your foot

The shoes you buy should always feel as good as they look. Shoes that fit properly will last longer, feel better, and improve your way of life each day.

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.

Gout can be painful and disruptive to your daily activities. If you are an avid exerciser, you may worry if gout will get in the way. However, unless you are in the middle of an active flare up, you should still be able to exercise. Generally, regular exercise can mitigate the symptoms of gout by helping you maintain a healthy weight, which reduces pressure on the joints, and by lowering the levels of uric acid in your blood. However, during a gout flare up, it is best to rest, as gout flare ups tend to be extremely painful. Resting keeps excess pressure off of the joints in your feet, which can reduce inflammation and pain. After a gout flare up, it is suggested that you ease back into exercising slowly by doing aquatic or low impact exercises and stretching. For more information about managing gout, please consult with a podiatrist.  

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.

Bunions are bony bumps that form on the outside of the big toe at the base of the joint. Bunions typically form due to excess pressure being placed on the big toe joint over time. However, there are several other types of bunions as well. A congenital hallux valgus refers to a bunion that is present in a baby at birth. Juvenile or adolescent hallux valgus refer to bunions that occur in children between the ages of 10 and 15. A Tailor’s bunion, which is also known as a bunionette, forms on the outside of the pinky toe, rather than on the big toe. Bunions may not cause symptoms initially, but tend to progress and become more uncomfortable and even painful over time. If you have bunions, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for treatment. 

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.

Pregnant women often experience foot pain, and a common ailment during pregnancy can include leg cramps. They may develop as a result of shortened calf muscles, and they can cause severe pain and discomfort. Additional reasons why foot cramps can develop may be from a vitamin deficiency, or an imbalance in electrolytes. This type of pain generally occurs in the third trimester, and will gradually diminish once the baby is born. Relief may be attained when the affected leg is stretched, and the foot is rotated several times in clockwise and counterclockwise directions. If you would like additional information on why leg cramps can occur during pregnancy, and how to prevent them, please consult with a podiatrist.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Frank Henry, DPM from Marble Falls, TX. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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.

Living with daily foot pain can disrupt the quality of your life. It may cause difficulty completing daily activities. Simple things like walking and standing may become overwhelming. Many patients who are afflicted with foot pain are prescribed orthotics. Orthotics are custom made inserts that fit inside of the shoe. They are known to relieve pressure by redistributing the body’s weight, and may help in making everyday tasks more manageable. Some of the ailments orthotics can be used for include bunions, rheumatoid arthritis, and heel or arch pain, which may be caused by plantar fasciitis. If you have any type of foot pain, it is strongly recommended that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine if orthotics are right for 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.

Fungal nail infections can occur in both the toenails and fingernails. These fungi tend to live in warm and moist environments, and they like to feed on the keratin that makes up the toenails. Fungal nail infections can be commonly spread in environments such as locker rooms and public pool areas, but they can also spread from poor foot hygiene. Nails that have been affected typically appear as yellow or brown, and they can become thicker. If the infection worsens, the affected nail could begin to crumble and accumulate debris that smells foul. Toenail fungal infections are difficult to completely heal on their own, so it is important to seek medical attention if you see any signs or symptoms. A podiatrist will provide a proper diagnosis and determine a treatment plan that is best for you. 

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. 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.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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 big toe is helpful in maintaining balance and positioning the foot. If a heavy object should fall on it, or if it is jammed into a piece of furniture, it may become fractured. A broken toe can make it difficult to walk, and may be accompanied by additional symptoms. These can include severe pain, stiffness, and bruising of the affected toe and surrounding area. A simple and effective treatment method is referred to as buddy taping. This involves taping the broken toe to the toe next to it. This procedure may be helpful in providing the necessary support as the healing process occurs. It is beneficial to avoid walking on a fractured toe. If this cannot be prevented, it may help to wear shoes that have a closed toe area. If you have endured a broken toe, please speak with a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions as quickly as possible.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. 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 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 Marble Falls, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The medical condition that is known as plantar fasciitis is often accompanied by foot pain after arising in the morning. The plantar fascia is located on the bottom of the foot and is defined as a band of tissue that connects the heel to the toes. It acts as a shock absorber, and can become torn or inflamed for several reasons. These can include standing on hard surfaces for extended periods of time throughout the day, or wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. Additionally, patients who are pregnant, or who have flat feet or high arches, may also develop plantar fasciitis. Mild relief may be found when gentle stretches of the heels, toes, and calves are performed. If you are experiencing heel pain, it may be indicative of plantar fasciitis, and it is strongly recommended that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, 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 Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is 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.