Items filtered by date: April 2024

Stress fractures are small cracks in the bones of the foot or lower leg, typically resulting from overuse or repetitive force. Athletes or those engaging in high-impact sports like running, basketball, or dance are more likely to get stress fractures. These injuries can also occur in people who suddenly increase their physical activity without proper conditioning, or those with poor nutrition or weakened bones. One of the main symptoms of a stress fracture is a sharp pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest. The affected area is often sensitive to the touch and may show signs of swelling. The pain is typically localized, making it feel worse during movements that put stress on the specific bone. Preventing stress fractures involves gradually increasing activity levels, wearing appropriate footwear, and incorporating strength training to enhance bone density. If a stress fracture is suspected, a podiatrist can confirm the diagnosis with imaging tests like X-rays or MRI scans. The doctor may recommend rest, possibly immobilization, and a gradual return to activity to ensure proper healing and prevent further injury. If you suspect a stress fracture, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. 

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Kenneth Williams, DPM from Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

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

Cracked and dry heels can be a bothersome and sometimes painful issue that many people face. There are several common causes behind this condition, including dry skin, lack of moisture, or standing for long periods. Wearing open-back shoes and specific medical conditions, such as diabetes or thyroid disease, can also contribute. People who have atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and other skin issues may have a higher likelihood of developing cracked heels. When the skin on the heels becomes excessively dry, it loses its elasticity and may crack under pressure, leading to discomfort and potential complications if left untreated. Additionally, certain lifestyle factors, like inadequate hydration or poor foot care practices, can make the problem worse. Podiatrists, or foot doctors, can offer treatments, such as moisturizing creams, exfoliation, or custom orthotics, to provide relief and promote healing. If you are struggling with cracked or dry heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for help. 

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Kenneth Williams, DPM from Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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

Diabetic patients require special attention to foot health due to their increased risk of developing complications such as neuropathy, poor circulation, and foot ulcers. Neglecting foot care can lead to serious consequences like infections, foot deformities, and even amputation. To maintain optimal foot health, people who are diabetic should adhere to a few simple tips. First, inspect the feet daily for cuts, sores, or blisters, as early detection is crucial. Second, wash and dry the feet thoroughly, paying attention to the spaces between the toes. Moisturize regularly, but avoid applying lotion between toes to prevent fungal infections. Additionally, wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes and never walk barefoot, even indoors. Regular exercise improves circulation, benefiting foot health. Most importantly, if you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you schedule regular check-ups with a podiatrist who can monitor foot health and promptly address any concerns.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Kenneth Williams, DPM from Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

The goal of bunion surgery is to correct the deformity of the big toe that causes pain and discomfort. The procedure generally involves an incision in the foot near the big toe to access the bunion. The bones, ligaments, tendons, and nerves are then realigned to correct the deformity. In some cases, small pieces of bone might be removed, or the bones may be cut and realigned with pins or plates to maintain the correct position. The specific technique used depends on the severity of the bunion and the patient's foot structure. After surgery, the foot is typically bandaged. Patients may need to wear a special boot or shoe to protect the foot and keep it in the correct position during the healing process. Recovery time varies, but it generally involves several weeks of limited movement to allow the foot to heal properly. Follow-up visits with the podiatrist are important to monitor the healing process and begin rehabilitation exercises to restore strength and mobility to the foot. If you have a bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss whether bunion surgery is right for you. 

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Kenneth Williams, DPM of Texas. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Wearing high heels can lead to a variety of discomforts and health issues. Continuous friction and pressure from ill-fitting shoes can cause blisters, corns, and calluses. Moreover, the unnatural foot position in high heels can contribute to ankle sprains, stress fractures in the foot or ankle bones, and even long-term problems like arthritis. The altered posture and gait induced by high heels can lead to pain in the knees, hips, and lower back. Additionally, the pressure on the toes can result in deformities like hammertoes or ingrown toenails. A podiatrist can provide valuable assistance in managing these issues. They can offer advice on proper footwear selection and fitting, as well as prescribe custom-made orthotic inserts to alleviate pressure points and improve foot mechanics. Podiatrists can also treat existing foot problems such as blisters, corns, and ingrown toenails, and provide guidance on stretching and strengthening exercises to mitigate the impact of high heels on foot health. If you wear high heels and are experiencing foot pain or any other foot problems, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for care.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Kenneth Williams, DPM from Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

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