Items filtered by date: October 2023

Tailor's bunion, also known as a bunionette, is a painful condition that develops on the outer side of the foot, specifically over the fifth metatarsophalangeal joint, or the 5th MPJ. This condition causes pressure pain, the formation of painful calluses, and difficulty when wearing shoes. One cause of tailor's bunion is a biomechanical abnormality where changes in your foot’s structure gradually cause the metatarsal bones to separate and a bunion to form. Conservative treatment options include padding, footwear modification, and custom-made orthotics. This condition is progressive and generally does not improve on its own. Surgical options include ostectomy, which removes the painful bump from the head of the fifth metatarsal. This type of surgery involves cutting the fifth metatarsal bone and realigning it. Surgical intervention may also include the removal of a painful bursa, if present. If tailor's bunion significantly hinders daily activities, causes discomfort while wearing shoes,  or leads to excessive pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine what the most appropriate course of action is.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Patrick Bruton, DPM of Big Country foot and Ankle. 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?

Doctors 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 doctor.

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 offices located in Abilene, and Brownwood, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Poor circulation in the feet can be a distressing issue that affects both your comfort and overall health. Several factors can contribute to this condition. One primary cause is atherosclerosis, a buildup of plaque in the arteries that restricts blood flow. Diabetes can lead to neuropathy and arterial damage, resulting in circulatory problems. Additionally, smoking damages blood vessels, reducing circulation. Peripheral artery disease narrows the arteries, often causing discomfort. Blood clots, such as deep vein thrombosis, can obstruct blood flow. Symptoms of poor circulation in the feet include cold feet, numbness, tingling, and muscle cramps. Skin discoloration, slow wound healing, and the development of leg ulcers are also common signs.  Addressing the underlying causes and adopting a healthier lifestyle can improve circulation and overall well-being. Poor circulation is a serious condition that can affect the feet. If you suffer from this condition, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can guide you toward treatment options and relief.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Patrick Bruton, DPM of Big Country foot and Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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

Your profession, while providing livelihood and fulfillment, can significantly affect the health of your feet. For those in physically demanding roles, such as healthcare workers, construction laborers, or retail employees, prolonged periods of standing or walking can lead to fatigue, strain, and an increased risk of conditions like plantar fasciitis or bunions. Conversely, sedentary jobs that require long hours of sitting can contribute to problems like weakened calf muscles, poor circulation, and the development of blood clots in the legs, known as deep vein thrombosis  Additionally, professions that involve wearing inappropriate footwear, like high heels or steel-toed boots, can lead to issues ranging from foot pain to chronic conditions such as ingrown toenails or neuromas. Regular foot care, including proper footwear selection, exercising, and taking periodic breaks to stretch and rest your feet, can mitigate the impact of your job on your feet. It is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for guidance tailored to your profession for advice on specific types of shoes to buy for the overall health of your feet. 

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Patrick Bruton, DPM from Big Country foot and Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

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

Trench foot, also known as immersion foot syndrome, is a serious condition resulting from prolonged exposure of the feet to moisture. It damages the circulation and nerve function in the feet. Its history goes back to World War I when soldiers in cold, wet trenches suffered from it due to wearing inadequate footwear. The symptoms of trench foot include blisters, blotchy skin, redness, and possibly tissue loss. It can also cause sensations such as coldness, numbness, and persistent itching. Trench foot is primarily caused by wet feet that do not dry properly, with temperatures that are 30˚F to 40˚F being most conducive. Early treatment is essential, and, if left untreated, trench foot can lead to severe complications such as amputations, gangrene, and permanent nerve damage. Diagnosis involves a physical examination by a doctor to assess injuries, tissue loss, and circulation. Treatment mainly consists of rest, elevation, pain medications, and keeping the feet clean and dry. Prevention includes keeping feet dry, having spare socks and shoes on hand, and airing out feet after wearing socks and shoes, even if they do not appear wet. If you have sustained prolonged exposure of your feet to moisture and have symptoms that are worsening, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist as soon as possible for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Patrick Bruton, DPM from Big Country foot and Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Ballet, especially when practicing the pointe technique, can lead to foot pain, injuries, and potential long-term damage. Pointe shoes, made with dense materials, support a dancer's body weight on fully extended feet, making it a challenging form of dance for the feet. Common foot injuries among ballet dancers include blisters, ingrown toenails, and sprained ankles. Bunions and stress fractures may also affect ballet dancers. These injuries can result from intense training and repetitive movements. Dancers typically transition to pointe shoes between ages 11 and 13, after their foot bones have ossified or hardened. Male ballet dancers, who do more lifting and jumping, are also susceptible to foot issues, such as Achilles tendonitis and sprained ankles. Continuing to dance with untreated foot injuries can lead to permanent damage, especially for professional dancers who spend extended periods on pointe. Some injuries, if left untreated, may require surgical intervention. Treatment for dance-related foot injuries varies depending on the cause and severity. If you are a dancer or your child is starting to dance, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to understand how to take care of the feet best to prevent long-term consequences of participating in this activity.

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 Patrick Bruton, DPM from Big Country foot and Ankle. 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 feel free to contact our offices located in Abilene, and Brownwood, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.