Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, and for athletes, it can be a game-changer. This condition occurs when the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot, becomes inflamed from overuse, excessive impact, or improper biomechanics. Runners, basketball players, and dancers are especially prone due to repetitive foot stress. Sharp, stabbing pain is often worse in the morning or after long periods of activity. Ignoring it can lead to chronic discomfort and even compensatory injuries in the knees or hips. Treatment includes rest, stretching, wearing proper footwear, and sometimes custom orthotics to provide arch support. If you are an athlete eager to stay in the game, it is suggested that you seek care from a podiatrist.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists  from Houston Foot and Ankle Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Inner Loop, Southwest, Greater Heights, and Pearland, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Trail hiking offers a serene escape into nature, where winding paths, towering trees, and breathtaking views create a peaceful experience. The rhythmic crunch of dirt beneath your boots and the fresh air can feel rejuvenating. However, long hikes on uneven terrain can take a toll on your feet, sometimes leading to painful ingrown toenails. This uncomfortable condition can develop when repeated pressure from steep climbs, descents, or ill-fitting hiking shoes causes the nail to grow into the surrounding skin. Wearing tight footwear, sweaty conditions, and prolonged toe impact can all contribute to irritation, swelling, and infection. If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can make every step painful. To keep hiking comfortably, wear properly fitted shoes and trim nails straight across. If you experience persistent pain, redness, or infection from an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for expert care and relief.

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 one of our podiatrists of Houston Foot and Ankle Care. Our doctors 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 offices located in Inner Loop, Southwest, Greater Heights, and Pearland, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Swollen feet and ankles can result from various conditions, including circulatory problems, kidney disease, or injury. Fluid retention, or edema, often occurs when the body struggles to regulate fluid movement due to issues such as heart or liver disease. Venous insufficiency, a condition in which vein valves do not function properly, can cause blood to pool in the lower legs, leading to persistent foot and ankle swelling. Ankle sprains and other foot injuries frequently cause localized swelling due to soft tissue damage. Infections, including cellulitis, can also lead to swelling, particularly in people with diabetes who may have a higher risk of foot complications. A blood clot in a leg vein, also termed deep vein thrombosis, can result in swelling and requires immediate attention. A podiatrist can evaluate the cause of swelling, recommend appropriate treatment, and help manage symptoms to prevent complications. If you have unusual or painful swollen feet or ankles, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Houston Foot and Ankle Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Inner Loop, Southwest, Greater Heights, and Pearland, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Gout is a form of arthritis that develops when excess uric acid in the body leads to crystal deposits in the joints. Gout often affects the big toe, ankle, or other foot joints, which can cause intense pain, redness, and swelling. Acute attacks occur suddenly, often at night, while chronic gout may result in large, painful tophi forming around the joints. Treatment for gout focuses on reducing pain, preventing future attacks, and protecting joint health. A podiatrist can evaluate your foot and ankle symptoms, recommend medications to manage inflammation and uric acid levels, and suggest footwear modifications to reduce joint stress. In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove large tophi or repair joint damage. Dietary and lifestyle changes, such as reducing alcohol intake and avoiding high-purine foods, can also help lower uric acid levels and decrease the frequency of attacks. Staying hydrated and maintaining a healthy weight may further support joint health. If you have toe or ankle pain that may be related to gout, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment solutions.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Houston Foot and Ankle Care. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Inner Loop, Southwest, Greater Heights, and Pearland, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.