Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, describe a condition in which the arch of the foot collapses, causing the entire sole to touch the ground. This may occur due to genetics, aging, injury, obesity, or weakened tendons. There are two types of flat feet, known as flexible and rigid. Signs of flexible flat feet are where the arch appears when sitting, but flattens when standing, and rigid flat feet happens when the arch is absent at all times, limiting movement. Symptoms can include foot pain, swelling, fatigue, ankle instability and discomfort in the knees, hips or lower back. Risk factors include family history, diabetes, and previous trauma. A podiatrist can evaluate structure and gait, and recommend orthotics or supportive footwear. If you have flat feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you appropriate management solutions.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact David Carmack, DPM from Texas. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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.

Ankle pain can develop from a variety of causes, ranging from sudden injury to gradual wear and tear. Sources include sprains, tendon inflammation, arthritis, or overuse from repetitive activity. A sprain may occur when the ligaments are stretched or torn, often leading to swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. In other cases, pain may build slowly with stiffness, aching, or a feeling of instability in the joint. The ankle may appear swollen, tender to touch, or limited in movement, especially after activity. A podiatrist can evaluate the ankle through physical examination and imaging  tests to determine the underlying cause. Treatment may include braces, changes in footwear, custom orthotics, and targeted exercises to restore strength and stability. In more severe cases, advanced treatment or surgery may be considered. If you have ankle pain that does not improve or interferes with daily activity, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate relief and treatment remedies.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with David Carmack, DPM from Texas. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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.

Fracture blisters are fluid-filled skin lesions that develop on the foot after a bone fracture, caused by intense swelling and pressure that disrupts the layers of the skin, often appearing clear or filled with blood. These blisters are typically accompanied by pain, swelling, and a feeling of tightness in the affected area, and may increase the risk of infection, if not treated promptly and properly. Common causes include traumatic injuries such as falls, accidents, or sports-related impacts, while risk factors include severe swelling, poor circulation, and delayed medical attention. A podiatrist can assess the injury, protect the skin, and support proper healing. If you notice blistering after a foot injury, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact David Carmack, DPM of Texas. 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.

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.