Bunions affect many people around the globe. They are considered to be a deformity, and can develop from wearing shoes that do not have adequate room in the toe area. Additionally, people who rarely stretch, receive massages, or exercise their feet may be prone to developing a bunion. Many family members may get bunions, and this can come from genetic factors. They appear as a bony protrusion that forms on the side of the big toe and can cause the need to purchase larger shoes. Large bunions can produce pain and discomfort, and mild relief may be found when specific exercises are performed. An effective stretch for the toes consists of rolling a tennis ball on the sole of the foot underneath the toes. This may help to release existing muscle tension. The toes can increase mobility by gripping the foot between the toes with the hands and moving the toes back and forth. If you have this ailment, and would like additional information about how to treat bunions, please contact a podiatrist who can offer you correct treatment techniques. 

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Alex Kim, DPM of AVID Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Podiatrists often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your provider.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

Athlete’s foot, also known as tinea pedis, is a common ailment caused by a fungal infection. It typically causes a skin rash characterized by itching, peeling, and cracking of the skin between the toes and on the sole of the foot. Since athlete’s foot is highly contagious, it can easily be spread to other people and other parts of your own body. Walking barefoot in swimming pool locker rooms and gym showers are common ways to obtain it. The fungi then continue to breed in your shoes, which can provide a moist, warm environment where the fungi thrive. Sharing towels or clothing that has been infected is another way it spreads. The three main types of athlete’s foot infections are toe web, moccasin type, and vesicular. Toe web infection usually forms between the toes. Moccasin type infection starts with soreness and spreads to the sole and heel, and in severe cases can infect toenails. Vesicular infection erupts into blisters, usually on the sole of your foot. Treatment of athlete’s foot depends on which type of infection you have developed. Ceasing the spread as soon as possible is essential, therefore, it is a good idea to immediately consult a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment plan. 

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Alex Kim, DPM from AVID Foot & Ankle Center.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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

Walking is an activity that as soon as we learn how to do it, we take it for granted. However, sometimes walking can become difficult because of age, illness, injury, or other factors. Symptoms that may develop are shooting pain, numbness and tingling, stiffness, imbalance, weakness, and limping. Types of gait abnormalities include walking with your head and neck pushed forward, walking with legs bent inward, dragging the feet while walking, waddling from side to side, and toes scraping the ground with each step. Among the many causes that can affect your gait are nerve damage, improper alignment of the body, lack of muscle strength and flexibility, inflammatory diseases and conditions, autoimmune deficiencies, injury, and stroke. If you notice an increased difficulty walking and are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, please consult a podiatrist who can conduct a complete examination and offer an appropriate treatment plan. 

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Alex Kim, DPM from AVID Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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

A corn on the foot is defined as a small area of thickened skin. It can form on top of the toes, on the bottom of the feet, or between the toes. Corns are caused by excess friction that can come from wearing shoes and socks that do not fit correctly. Corns that are found between the toes are referred to as soft corns, and constant moisture keeps them soft. Hard corns are often found on the side of the pinky toe, or on top of the toes. This type of corn can cause severe pain and discomfort, and it may be difficult to walk and complete daily activities. Mild relief may be found when a protective pad is worn over the corn, and it is suggested that larger shoes are worn. Some people have medical conditions that can consist of bunions and hammertoes, and corns can develop on top of the affected toes or on the side of the bunion. If you have corns on your feet, please consult with a podiatrist who can effectively treat this type of foot condition.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Alex Kim, DPM of AVID Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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