Items filtered by date: January 2024

Hammertoe, a common foot ailment, unfolds as a deformity characterized by an abnormal bending of the toe joints. The condition primarily affects the second, third, or fourth toe, causing it to resemble a hammer's curved shape. One of the key causes of hammertoe is an imbalance in the muscles and tendons that control toe movement, leading to joint misalignment. Wearing ill-fitting shoes with narrow or high toe boxes can exacerbate the problem, cramping the toes and impeding their natural movement. Additionally, genetic predisposition and certain medical conditions, such as arthritis or diabetes, may increase susceptibility to developing hammertoe. Understanding the definition and underlying causes of hammer toe is essential for early intervention. If you have developed hammertoe, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can guide you toward successful treatment and prevention methods.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Raul Hidalgo DPM from South Texas Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

If you have any questions please contact our office located in San Antonio, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Bunion surgery, a consideration for those grappling with persistent discomfort and deformity, involves a meticulous assessment of its potential benefits and drawbacks. On the positive side, bunion surgery can provide relief from pain, improve the appearance of the foot, and enhance overall mobility. By correcting the misalignment of the big toe joint, surgery addresses the root cause of the bunion, preventing its progression. Increased joint function and reduced pressure on adjacent toes can contribute to improved overall foot health. However, the decision to undergo bunion surgery comes with its set of considerations. Potential drawbacks include the risks associated with any surgical procedure, such as infection, scarring, or adverse reactions to anesthesia. Postoperative recovery involves a period of limited mobility and potential discomfort. Additionally, the success of bunion surgery depends on various factors, including the severity of the bunion and the patient's commitment to postoperative care. If you have a bunion and are considering surgery, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can help you to make an informed decision.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Raul Hidalgo DPM of South Texas Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in San Antonio, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Navigating a child's heel pain, particularly in the context of Sever's disease, demands careful attention. This condition primarily targets children during their adolescent growth spurts, typically affecting girls aged 8 to 13 and boys aged 10 to 15. As children grow, their bones elongate from growth plates, soft areas of cartilage near the ends of bones, which eventually solidify. Sever’s disease arises when the calf muscle and Achilles tendon excessively pull on the immature heel bone, which continues to develop until approximately age 15. Athletes engaged in high-impact sports face a higher risk for Sever's disease, but less active children can also be affected. Symptoms include pain on the sides or margins of the heel, which may increase with activities like standing on tiptoes or running. Diagnosis relies on symptoms, as X-rays cannot confirm Sever's disease but may rule out other causes. While symptoms may persist for several months, prompt recognition and appropriate intervention can help children effectively manage and alleviate the heel pain associated with Sever’s disease. For help in managing your child’s heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Raul Hidalgo DPM from South Texas Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in San Antonio, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

High heels, synonymous with style and sophistication, often come at a cost to foot health, profoundly influencing foot posture. The elevated heel forces a redistribution of body weight, prompting a forward tilt of the pelvis and altering the natural curvature of the spine. This shift places increased pressure on the balls of the feet, and may lead to conditions such as metatarsalgia, characterized by pain and inflammation in the front part of the foot. The Achilles tendon undergoes increased tension, potentially causing tightness and discomfort. Prolonged wear of high heels can contribute to the shortening of the calf muscles, limiting flexibility and disrupting the overall biomechanics of the foot. Ankle instability and a higher risk of sprains are also associated with frequent high heel use. Understanding the impact of high heels on foot posture emphasizes the importance of moderation and the occasional choice of comfortable footwear to maintain optimal foot health. If you are experiencing foot pain brought about by wearing high heels, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist for treatment options.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Raul Hidalgo DPM from South Texas Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in San Antonio, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle pain can arise from diverse origins, often requiring an understanding for effective management. Sprains, the most prevalent cause, occur when ligaments are stretched beyond their limits, resulting in pain and swelling. Arthritis, encompassing various forms, can inflame the ankle joints, causing persistent pain and stiffness. Fractures, stemming from injuries or trauma, manifest as sharp pain and limited mobility. Tendonitis, the inflammation of tendons surrounding the ankle, contributes to discomfort during movement. Overuse or repetitive stress on the ankle, particularly in activities such as running, may lead to conditions including Achilles tendonitis. Inflammatory conditions like gout or rheumatoid arthritis can affect the ankle joints, intensifying pain. Addressing ankle pain necessitates a thorough assessment of the underlying cause. A proper diagnosis may consist of having X-rays or other imaging tests taken, which can rule out a broken ankle. If you have ankle pain, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can offer you the treatment method that is right for you. 

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Raul Hidalgo DPM from South Texas Foot & Ankle Care. 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 San Antonio, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.