Toe pain does not always come from an injury and can often result from underlying conditions that affect the feet. Skin problems are a common source of toe pain. Corns, calluses, blisters, warts, athlete’s foot, and ingrown toenails may cause discomfort, redness, or swelling. Infections can also lead to painful changes in the toenails or surrounding skin. Joint issues, such as bunions, bunionettes, hammer toes, arthritis, or gout, can make walking difficult and alter toe alignment. Pain may also develop in the ball of the foot from metatarsalgia. Nerve problems such as Morton’s neuroma, tarsal tunnel syndrome, or neuropathy can produce tingling, burning, or numbness in the toes. Additionally, circulatory changes, often seen in people with diabetes, can further contribute to nerve damage and pain. A podiatrist can diagnose the source of your toe pain and provide effective treatment, depending on the condition. If you are experiencing toe pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact David Carmack, DPM of Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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.

Sesamoiditis is a painful condition that affects the small sesamoid bones located beneath the big toe joint. These bones help with movement and weight bearing, but can become inflamed from repetitive stress or injury. Common causes include activities that place pressure on the forefoot, such as running, dancing, or wearing high-heeled shoes. Risk factors include foot structure abnormalities, overuse, and improper footwear. Symptoms include pain under the big toe, swelling, and difficulty pushing off while walking. A podiatrist can diagnose sesamoiditis, provide customized treatment options, such as padding, orthotics, and activity modifications, and offer long-term solutions for relief. If you are experiencing forefoot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat the problem.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact David Carmack, DPM of Texas. Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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.

Soccer places significant demands on the feet and ankles, making certain injuries more frequent among players. Ankle sprains are common when the foot twists or rolls during quick changes in direction, often leading to swelling and difficulty in bearing weight. Plantar fasciitis can develop from overuse, with heel pain that worsens after activity or first thing in the morning. Stress fractures may occur from repetitive impact, creating localized pain that increases with play and improves with rest. Each of these conditions can limit performance and may worsen without timely care. Proper warm-up, supportive footwear, and gradual training progression help reduce the risk, but even experienced athletes are not immune. If you notice persistent pain, swelling, or difficulty walking after soccer activity, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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.

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. It most commonly affects the big toe and can result from improper nail trimming, wearing tight footwear, genetics, or injury. Symptoms include redness, tenderness, and drainage. Risk factors include curved nails, poor foot hygiene, and repetitive pressure on the toes. If left untreated, the condition can worsen and lead to serious complications. A podiatrist can safely remove the ingrown portion of the nail, relieve pain, and provide guidance to prevent recurrence. If you notice signs of an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you promptly schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition, which may include minor surgery. 

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact David Carmack, DPM of Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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.