A bunion develops when the bones and soft tissues around the big toe joint slowly lose their normal alignment and stability. The process often begins when the small supporting bones and ligaments beneath the joint weaken and no longer hold the toe in its proper position. As this support breaks down, the base of the big toe starts to shift outward, forming a bump, while the top of the big toe angles toward the second toe. This causes the tendons that help bend and straighten the big toe to be pulled out of place, which increases the sideways drift of the toe. A muscle along the outside of the foot then pulls the big toe into a twisted position, making the joint unstable. Over time, the joint rotates and becomes loose, leading to a visibly angled big toe and the prominent bump seen with a bunion. If you have a painful bunion, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for help.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact David Carmack, DPM of Texas. 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?

Podiatrists 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 provider.

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.

Well-fitted ski boots play an important role in comfort, performance, and injury prevention on the slopes. Ski boots that are too tight can restrict circulation and increase pressure on the toes, heel, and ankle, while loose boots allow excess movement that strains ligaments and tendons. Poor fit may contribute to numbness, blisters, bruised toenails, arch pain, and ankle instability during turns and sudden stops. Properly fitted ski boots help hold the foot and ankle in a neutral position, improving balance, control, and energy transfer to the skis. Fit concerns are often influenced by foot shape, arch height, calf size, and previous foot or ankle injuries. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, identify pressure areas, assess alignment, and recommend adjustments or modifications to reduce stress during skiing. For help with foot or ankle pain caused by skiing, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with David Carmack, DPM from Texas. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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.

Overuse injuries develop when muscles, tendons, and soft tissues are stressed repeatedly without enough recovery time. In the foot, this often affects tendons, the plantar fascia, or the small stabilizing muscles that support walking and standing. Certain calf conditions also fall under podiatric care, particularly when tight calf muscles or tendon strain alter foot mechanics and increase stress on the heel or arch. Poor footwear, sudden increases in activity, and abnormal foot structure can all contribute. Treatment focuses on reducing strain while restoring proper movement. This may include activity modification, stretching and strengthening exercises, custom orthotics, and wearing supportive footwear. If foot pain or calf-related strain continues or worsens, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate care.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with David Carmack, DPM from Texas. 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.

Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet, especially between the toes and along the soles. It is caused by fungi that thrive in warm, damp environments such as shoes, locker rooms, and swimming areas. Unlike simple dry skin, athlete’s foot often causes persistent itching, redness, burning, peeling, cracking, or blisters. The skin may appear scaly and irritated, and the infection can spread to toenails or other areas, if left untreated. A podiatrist can examine the feet, confirm the diagnosis, and recommend effective antifungal treatments, foot hygiene strategies, and preventive measures. If you have symptoms of athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact David Carmack, DPM from Texas.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are 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 and ankle needs.