Gout, an inflammatory ailment caused by excess uric acid, often triggers sudden and severe joint pain. Commonly affecting the big toe, gout attacks are often described as feeling like a fracture or a severe burn. Along with the intense pain, symptoms include visible swelling, redness, and inflammation in the affected joint, making movement difficult and leading to stiffness. These symptoms tend to worsen over time if left untreated, potentially causing joint deformity and long-term complications. Recurrent gout attacks can occur in clusters, affecting both mobility and overall quality of life. Seeking professional help from a podiatrist is essential for comprehensive care, including diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management. Podiatrists can offer a combination of medication, lifestyle adjustments, and preventive strategies to alleviate gout symptoms and reduce the risk of future attacks. If you experience such painful symptoms, particularly in your big toe, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist for treatment.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact David Carmack, DPM from Texas. 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.

Lateral ankle sprains can happen to anyone as the result of a sudden movement, such as stepping off a curb and landing the wrong way. Ankle sprains are particularly common among athletes who engage in sudden stops and starts, jumping, or sideways movements. The majority of sprained ankles happen when the outer, or lateral, ligaments are stretched too much. Factors such as gender, height, and foot anatomy can contribute to vulnerability, as do previous injuries and improper footwear choices. Women wearing high heels, for instance, may be at higher risk of ankle sprains. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity of the sprain, identify underlying risk factors, and devise a personalized treatment plan for you. This foot doctor addresses both intrinsic and extrinsic factors of an ankle sprain. Treatment and a full recovery can help to minimize the risk of future ankle sprains. If you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact David Carmack, DPM from Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen 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 and ankle needs.

Diagnosing the cause of heel pain usually involves a comprehensive approach to identify the underlying issue accurately. First, a podiatrist will conduct a detailed medical history and physical examination, focusing on the foot to assess pain location, tenderness, and the presence of any swelling or abnormalities. The doctor may ask about the type of pain experienced, its onset, and any activities that exacerbate or relieve it. To further pinpoint the cause of heel pain, imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI scans, or ultrasounds may be utilized. These tools help a podiatrist visualize the internal structure of the foot, revealing issues like plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, or other soft tissue injuries. In certain cases, blood tests might be ordered to rule out systemic conditions, such as arthritis or gout, that can cause heel pain. Through this process, podiatrists can determine the specific cause of heel pain, allowing them to devise a targeted treatment plan that addresses the root of the problem. If you are suffering from heel pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today to begin the diagnostic process. 

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact David Carmack, DPM of Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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.

Regular foot assessments and timely management of foot-related issues in older adults play a huge role in maintaining mobility and reducing the risk of falls, which are major concerns for this age group. The feet can change in structure and function as people age. Especially when paired with conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, and circulatory problems, this can significantly impact a person’s ability to walk and perform daily activities safely. By addressing these issues early through routine podiatry care, potential problems can be managed or corrected before they lead to more serious complications and falls. This approach helps older adults both retain their motor performance and independence, as well as reduce their fear of falling. Fear itself can lead to a decrease in physical activity, further diminishing muscle strength and balance, which increases the risk of falls. It is suggested that elderly people with possible foot and aging concerns make regular appointments with a podiatrist, to address any potential problems quickly. 

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact David Carmack, DPM from Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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.

Prolonged standing and walking during the workday can take a toll on your feet, leading to various types of pain and potentially serious conditions. Studies show that a significant portion of the workforce, especially in industries such as retail, manufacturing, and service, spend extensive hours on their feet each day. Continuous standing and walking on the job places undue stress and inflammation on the numerous bones, joints, muscles, and connective tissue in the feet. Conditions like plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, bunions, and corns can arise, worsened by weakened arches and structural changes. In addition, discomfort and fatigue often extend beyond the feet, affecting the legs, back, and even the neck. Chronic inflammation and stress may lead to long-term complications, emphasizing the importance of seeking medical intervention. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment suggestions to help reduce job-related foot pain. 

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact David Carmack, DPM from Texas. 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.