Will my Child Grow Out of In-Toeing?
Treatment for in-toeing in young children typically involves a thorough evaluation of the severity of the problem and monitoring their foot growth over time. Some children tend to grow out of their gait abnormality as their feet develops, while some children do not. This is generally dependent on what part of the feet or legs are causing the toes to point inward. The natural twists in the thigh or shin bones usually straighten with a few years of growth. Furthermore, a curve in your infant’s foot bones that resemble a C-shaped foot, called Metatarsus Adductus, will need to be treated with taping and stretching.
A severe gait abnormality may continue into their later childhood years. If your child does not grow out of the issue and discomfort persists, there are surgical procedures to help correct their gait abnormality. However, these procedures are generally reserved for the most severe conditions. If you are concerned about your child’s gait, don’t wait to have it examined. To schedule an appointment with Crystal Falls Foot + Ankle Specialists, you can call us at 512-738-8896 or you can request an appointment online by clicking the REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT button at the top of this page.
Is Foot Surgery Painful?
Foot surgery is not painful. For any particular surgical procedure which involves opening the body, your foot will be treated with some kind of anesthetic. You may have heard of local or general anesthesia. Most foot and ankle surgeries will require local anesthesia, which means it will only affect a specific area of your foot that is being treated. For bone-related surgeries, general sedation may be available.
Any pain in the surgical process comes after the surgery is completed. Once the anesthetic wears off, you can feel the effects of the swelling and inflammation which follow a surgery. The amount of pain one might encounter after surgery is dependent on the individual. If you have a low pain tolerance or you undergo a complex surgery, you may experience a good amount of discomfort. On the other hand, if you have a high pain tolerance or undergo a minor surgical procedure, you may experience less pain and discomfort. The doctors at Crystal Falls Foot + Ankle Specialists can help you with a post-operative recovery plan to minimize your discomfort while you heal. If you believe you may need foot surgery or have any questions about your lower extremity, please call us at 512-738-8896 or you can request an appointment online by clicking the REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT button at the top of this page. Along with completing the request form, new patients can log into the Patient Portal to complete forms prior to their first visit.
Can I Get Rid of My Smelly Feet?
Yes, you can treat foot odor and eliminate it. The foul odor is caused by colonies of bacteria that live on the skin’s surface combined with your foot’s sweat. Your feet are home to over 250,000 sweat glands! To get rid of your foot odor, you’ll need to address your sweaty feet. Try rotating your shoes, changing your socks midday, or use foot powder to absorb excessive sweat. Rotate through pairs of shoes so that your shoes can dry out for a while before you decide to wear them again. Wear ventilated shoes that will allow for your feet to breathe and wear socks that are made of synthetic fibers. They tend to wick away moisture faster than cotton or wool socks, especially for those with active lifestyles. You could also try washing your feet with soap and water every day, too.
If you continue to have a difficult time eliminating your foot odor, our doctors at Crystal Falls Foot + Ankle Specialists will also be able to recommend therapies or products to use on your feet and in your shoes. If you are embarrassed of your smelly feet and would like to make an appointment to learn more, you can call us at 512-738-8896 , where a member of our friendly staff can assist you, or you can request an appointment online by clicking the REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT button at the top of this page.
Are Bunions Inherited?
While bunions themselves are not inherited, the foot shape that allows them to form is. It’s the result of a biomechanical deficiency that allows your big toe and first metatarsal to become displaced. Bunions progressively worsen over time. External factors can also play a role. Pressure on the forefoot encourages the displacement of your big toe and first metatarsal, can also lead to the formation of a bunion. This can be aggravated by tight-fitting shoes, activities, and/or pre-existing conditions affecting your lower extremity.
While heredity can increase your chance of developing a bunion, you are not guaranteed to have the condition. Since external factors can lead to the condition, taking care of your feet and using preventative measures may help you avoid the problem later in life. If you are concerns about developing a bunion, or you already have noticed symptoms, please let our doctors know at Crystal Falls Foot + Ankle Specialists. To make an appointment, you can call us at 512-738-8896 , where a member of our friendly staff can assist you, or you can request an appointment online by clicking the REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT button at the top of this page.
Can Your Shoes Cause Bunions?
Your shoes do not cause foot deformities like bunions and hammertoes to form; however, they can encourage problems in your feet and make deformities worse. Hammertoes are caused by an imbalance in the tendons that bend and straighten your toes. Bunions are generally caused by a faulty foot structure and biomechanics which allow your big toe and first metatarsal to become displaced. An individual’s foot shape that is predisposed to this condition is typically inherited.
Footwear that is too tight, too pointed, or too narrow tend to stress the toes. The pressure from tight-fitting shoes exacerbate tendon imbalances or toe displacement. If your shoes do not fit well, you are more prone to develop these deformities. To make an appointment, you can call us at 512-738-8896 , where a member of our friendly staff can assist you, or you can request an appointment online by clicking the REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT button at the top of this page.
How Often Should a Diabetic Foot be Checked?
A regular diabetic foot check-up is vital for any diabetic patient at least twice a year. A person living with diabetes needs a podiatrist to perform a complete inspection of their lower extremities. If you or a loved one is suffering from severe diabetic foot complications, you may need to be seen more often.
To avoid diabetic complications, be sure to inspect your feet daily, never walk barefoot, and wear properly-fitted shoes. It is highly recommended that you perform self-foot exams every day to monitor for any abnormal changes early on. It is important to visit your Podiatrist for regular foot examinations in order to maintain healthy feet. If you or a loved one is a diabetic, our doctors at Crystal Falls Foot + Ankle Specialists, can help you manage your condition. To make an appointment, you can call us at 512-738-8896 , where a member of our friendly staff can assist you, or you can request an appointment online by clicking the REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT button at the top of this page.
Why Examine a Diabetic Foot?
If you are a diabetic, you are at a higher risk for foot complications. A person suffering from diabetes can experience nerve damage and poor circulation. Diabetics tend to have a lack of sensation in their feet, and a small cut can often go unnoticed. Poor blood flow can impede the healing process, which subsequently increases the change for an unnoticed wound to become infected. If left untreated, this can lead to devastating consequences, including amputation.
To avoid diabetic complications, be sure to inspect your feet daily, never walk barefoot, and wear properly-fitted shoes. If you or a loved one has diabetes, make sure you perform a self-foot exam, and look for any cuts, corns, calluses, or temperature changes. If you notice anything abnormal, please call us at 512-738-8896 and make an appointment with one of our experienced doctors, or you can request an appointment online by clicking the REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT button at the top of this page.
Is Being Overweight Causing my Heel Pain?
Your feet take the brunt of your entire weight when you stand. In fact, every step places 1.5 times your body weight of pressure on each foot. So to answer this question, obesity and foot pain are closely related. Your weight does raise your risk for developing heel pain, but it isn’t the direct cause of your heel pain. The more weight you have, the more stress and strain you place on your supporting tissues, such as the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia is a ligament that attaches to the bottom of your heel. You will need care and prompt intervention to remedy your heel pain and to relieve your pain and discomfort. Fortunately, you do not have to suffer from heel pain, even when you struggle with weight issues. To learn more about the conservative treatment options to rid your heel pain, please call us at 512-738-8896 and make an appointment with one of our skilled doctors, or you can request an appointment online by clicking the REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT button at the top of this page. Ask us about our latest technology, Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) , that can help rid your heel pain today!
Can I Get Rid of my Heel Pain Without Injections?
The treatment for heel pain does not necessarily have to involve injections. If you prefer a more holistic approach, you can avoid heel pain injections with several other conservative treatment options. Changes in footwear, stretching exercises, or custom orthotics can help ease your heel pain. Custom orthotic devices can help to correct biomechanical problems that contribute to your heel pain by redistributing the pressure away from your heel. Stretching exercises are also beneficial to alleviate the inflammation and pain. Another alternative to injections for heel pain is Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) . This is a non-invasive procedure that not only relieves your heel pain, but also helps to repair damaged tissues and accelerate the healing process. Treatment sessions will generally take about 5-10 minutes, depending on the area that is being treated, and relief is near instantaneous. There is no downtime, and treatments are performed at our office and do not require anesthesia.
To learn more about these conservative treatment options for your heel pain, please call us at 512-738-8896 or you can request an appointment online by clicking the REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT button at the top of this page. Along with completing the request form, new patients can log into the Patient Portal to complete forms prior to their first visit.
How Often Should I Replace my Orthotics?
Orthotics are made with durable materials, and they will tend to wear and tear over time. Such physical activity, like running or exercising, can cause your orthotics to wear down faster. Generally, a well-made pair of orthotics should be designed to last for several years. Here at Crystal Falls Foot + Ankle Specialists, we offer same-day casting for custom orthotics. We partner with one of the country’s leading labs, Marathon Orthotics, Inc., to provide you with a superior quality device
If your orthotics are causing you foot pain while wearing, it could be a sign that they need to be replaced. The orthotics may be losing their shape and function. Your feet also change over time, which could affect how the insoles fit your feet. This may also be a sign that you need to replace your custom orthotics. If you are concerned that you need a new pair of custom orthotics, please call us at 512-738-8896 or you can request an appointment online by clicking the REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT button at the top of this page. Our experienced doctors at Crystal Falls Foot + Ankle Specialists can examine and evaluate your feet for a pair of custom orthotics that is tailored to your feet.
How Often Should I Replace my Running Shoes?
Keep an activity log of your athletic activity! You should replace your running shoes every 300 to 400 miles to ensure they provide your feet with adequate support! This is greatly dependent on your weight, how much you run, and the amount of force you use to strike the ground. Often times, runners make the mistake of waiting too long to replace their shoes and risk overuse injuries. If you notice your feet are feeling more fatigued, it may be time to replace your running shoes. If the tread of your soles is worn out, you are damaging your feet with inadequate support. Another tell-tale sign that your shoes need to be replaced is if you are experiencing pain in your lower extremity while running, such as shin splints. Give us a call at 512-738-8896 to schedule an appointment or you can request an appointment online by clicking the REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT button at the top of this page to be examined by one of our doctors.
What Causes Ingrown Toenails?
Ingrown toenails are usually caused by trimming toenails too short, but they may also be caused by shoe pressure, injury, heredity, or poor foot structure. Some toenails grow more curved than others, and tight-fitting shoes and socks can be another cause. Ingrown toenails occur when the corners or sides of the toenail dig into the skin, often causing infection (swelling, redness, and pain). Trauma to your toenail, like stubbing it on furniture, can also lead to an ingrown toenail. Ingrown toenails can be prevented by trimming your toenails straight across with no rounded corners, ensuring that your shoes and socks are not too tight, and keeping your feet clean at all times. Here at Crystal Falls Foot + Ankle Specialists, we can treat your ingrown toenails so they don’t cause you any more pain, including removing part of the nail permanently for recurring problems. Give us a call at 512-738-8896 to schedule an appointment or you can request an appointment online by clicking the REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT button at the top of this page.
What Types of Conditions Can Orthotics Help?
Custom Orthotics have been known to relieve foot pain and to increase your performance in sports. Orthotics refers to any device inserted into a shoe that correct an abnormal or irregular walking pattern. Orthotics can help diabetic feet, in which soft orthotics can help take the pressure off uncomfortable or sore spots and keep it from turning into an ulcer and risking other serious complications. Diabetes is a disease that attacks your joints and can cause deterioration and pain. Patients who are diabetic or suffer from arthritis would greatly benefit from orthotics because they will provide adequate support to keep your joints in better alignment and reduce the friction on your bones. In addition, semi-rigid orthotics provide foot balance for walking or participating in sports. Plantar fasciitis is another common condition where an orthotic would greatly benefit you to improve your biomechanics and relieve your heel pain caused by the stress and damage on the plantar fascia. Semi-rigid orthotics are prescribed for children to treat flatfoot and in-toeing or out-toeing disorders. Orthotics are also used to help alleviate pain in athletes while they train and compete. If you would like to make an appointment to find out if custom supports would be beneficial for you, call us at 512-738-8896 , where a member of our friendly staff can assist you, or you can request an appointment online by clicking the REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT button at the top of this page.
Why Are my Toenails Becoming Thick and Discolored?
Thick and discolored toenails are often caused by a fungus that invades the nail. It is commonly caused by microscopic fungi, most typically of the dermatophyte category. This is the same type of fungus that causes athlete’s foot. Often times, it can be caused from trauma to the nails, like dropping something on your toenail or wearing shoes that are too tight. It is recommended that when buying shoes, you should consider a thumb’s width space in the toe box between the end of your toes and your shoe. There are treatments available that may improve your nail fungus condition such as a topical anti-fungal medication, or prescribing an oral anti-fungal medication. If you are experiencing toenail fungus and want to learn more about how to treat them, please call us at 512-738-8896 or you can request an appointment online by clicking the REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT button at the top of this page.
How Do I avoid Athlete's Foot?
Avoiding athlete’s foot isn’t too hard, but it does take some conscious effort. Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection that thrives in warm, dark, and moist environments. Making sure to limit exposure to the pathogen and a foot environment that would allow it to flourish is crucial to prevention. Always be sure to keep your feet clean and dry. Be sure to wash your feet every day and dry them thoroughly afterwards, especially between the toes. Wear ventilated shoes that will allow for your feet to breathe and wear socks that are made of synthetic fibers. They tend to wick away moisture faster than cotton or wool socks, especially for those with active lifestyles. Try to avoid walking barefoot in public spaces, like locker rooms, public showers, or swimming pools. These places have a high chance of contamination, so make sure you wear sandals or shower shoes to protect your feet. Our doctors at Crystal Falls Foot + Ankle Specialists are happy to help you avoid a fungal infection, or quickly treat one you already have. Just give us a call at 512-738-8896 and make an appointment, or you can request an appointment online by clicking the REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT button at the top of this page.
What Does Neuropathy Feel Like?
As Podiatrists, we often deal with peripheral neuropathy that affects the feet. Peripheral neuropathy can arise from diabetes, alcoholism, toxins, compression of a nerve, or vitamin deficiencies. The damage to your nerves can cause the loss of feeling in your feet. Some of the most common neuropathy symptoms we see are:
- Tingling: Pins and needles type of feeling.
- Numbness: Toes and feet feel thick, like they are not part of you.
- Loss of Sensation: You cannot feel or detect extreme temperatures and pain as easily or readily.
- Pain: Sharp, shooting, needle-like feeling.
- Muscle Weakness: Feeling of loss of strength to move your feet and toes.
- Lack of Reflexes: You cannot respond quickly to stimuli, and you become uncoordinated and lose your balance.
If you or a loved one is experiencing any of these signs or symptoms, please give us a call at 512-738-8896 and make an appointment, or you can request an appointment online by clicking the REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT button at the top of this page.
Why Do I have Heel Pain in the Morning?
There are several reasons why your heel hurts in the morning, and the most common condition is called plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the plantar fascia, which is the ligament that connects the ball of your foot to your heel bone. Heel pain arises when the plantar fascia is pulled too tightly where it attaches to the heel bone. Flat feet, tight calf muscles, and excessive roll of your foot and ankle all contribute to plantar fasciitis. You can benefit from custom orthotics to help support the arch and lessen the strain on the plantar fascia. If you’re experiencing pain behind your heel toward the top of the heel bone, it may be caused by Achilles tendinitis. This condition is caused by a tight Achilles and calf muscles that places tension where the tendon attaches to the heel bone. Achilles tendinitis is often the result of overuse or from a sudden increase in activity. If you want to find out if one of these conditions is causing your pain, please give us a call at 512-738-8896 and make an appointment, or you can request an appointment online by clicking the REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT button at the top of this page.
How Can I Prevent Achilles Tendinitis?
Achilles tendonitis is an inflammation of the tendon attached to the back of the heel, and there are several ways to prevent an Achilles tendonitis. Make sure that you have shoes with good cushioning in the heel and firm support for your arch. Warm up before your physical activities and remember to stretch in the morning, as well as before and after exercise. This will help loosen your calf muscles to decrease tension on the Achilles tendon. Achilles tendinitis is often the result of overuse or from a sudden increase in activity, so avoid starting new activities too quickly or doing the same activity all the time. This tends to overstress certain muscles and tendons, and your body needs adequate rest to recover. If you want to learn more about prevention tips or you’re experiencing pain in your Achilles, please give us a call at 512-738-8896 and make an appointment, or you can request an appointment online by clicking the REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT button at the top of this page.
What are the Signs of Peripheral Arterial Disease?
Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a serious problem that can have a tremendous impact on your lower extremity. One of the most common signs of PAD is cramping in your lower limbs. The cramping pain increases while you are active, but usually disappears when your legs and feet are at rest. You may also experience muscle weakness and numbness. Your feet may feel colder than normal, and your skin may appear discolored. In more advanced cases, you may lose hair on your lower limbs and be more disposed to slow-healing ulcerations. It is vital to get your lower extremities checked regularly. Our doctors at Crystal Falls Foot + Ankle Specialists are here to help you diagnose and manage conditions like peripheral arterial disease (PAD) in your lower limbs. If you wish to learn more, please give us a call at 512-738-8896 , or you can request an appointment online by clicking the REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT button at the top of this page.
Will Flat Feet Affect my Running?
Whether or not flat feet will affect your running, the main area of focus needs to be on a biomechanical process known as pronation. The biomechanics behind pronation refers to the distribution of the force load that comes with taking every step. When the foot pronates normally, it performs about 15% inwards rolling motion. However, those individuals with flat feet do not have the same level of support from their foot arches; therefore, their inward roll is greater, which is called overpronation. Individuals who overpronate place increased pressure on the inner edge of their feet, which can lead to increased risk for sports injuries like shin splints, Achilles tendonitis, and pain in their feet, knees, hips, ankles, and legs. Overpronation is usually not a big issue for walking, but if you have flat feet and love running, you may benefit from motion-control shoes, arch support inserts, or custom orthotic devices . Come see us at Crystal Falls Foot + Ankle Specialists, and we can perform a thorough examination and gait analysis to determine how we can help you run safely and comfortably. Please give us a call at 512-738-8896 and make an appointment, or you can request an appointment online by clicking the REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT button at the top of this page.
How Can I prevent Corns and Calluses?
Corns and calluses are caused by friction and pressure over time on particular areas of your feet. So in order to prevent them, you should try to reduce or eliminate that pressure. Switching to better-fitting shoes or using an orthotic device to correct an underlying cause is a great start to preventing corns and calluses! Avoid shoes that are too tight or too narrow. If there are certain areas of your feet that are more susceptible to pressure, try wearing protective pads or consider custom orthotics to offer adequate support and cushioning. Make sure to take care of your skin by keeping your feet clean and moisturized. If you or a loved one has or have developed these lesions, our doctors at Crystal Falls Foot + Ankle Specialists can help devise a treatment plan to rid these lesions and pain away! Just give us a call at 512-738-8896 and make an appointment, or you can request an appointment online by clicking the REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT button at the top of this page.