Items filtered by date: June 2025

Achilles tendinitis is the inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. In ballet dancers, it is often caused by repetitive stress, overuse, improper technique, or inadequate warm-up. This condition can lead to pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty rising on the toes or pointing the foot. Symptoms may worsen with activity and ease with rest. Due to the physical demands of ballet, early recognition and care are essential. A podiatrist can assess gait, foot structure, and technique, providing customized treatment plans that may include orthotics and footwear guidance. If you are a dancer experiencing heel or tendon pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for expert care and recovery support.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, 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 the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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

Lymphoedema ioccurs when the lymphatic system becomes damaged or blocked, leading to the buildup of lymphatic fluid in the tissues. This causes swelling, often in the arms or legs, and can significantly affect the feet. Swollen feet may feel heavy, tight, or uncomfortable, and the skin may become thickened or prone to infection. A podiatrist can help manage lymphoedema-related foot swelling by recommending proper footwear, compression therapy, and skin care routines to reduce discomfort and prevent complications. They can also monitor for signs of infection and support overall foot health. If you notice persistent swelling in your feet, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist for guidance, treatment, and relief.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, 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.

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

Dry, cracked heels, or heel fissures, often worsen during warm weather due to increased activity and environmental exposure. Open-backed shoes like sandals offer little protection or support for the heel, allowing the skin to dry out and split. Warm temperatures and outdoor activities can lead to more time spent walking barefoot or in thin-soled footwear, which places more pressure on the heel. Excessive sweating followed by rapid evaporation also contributes to skin dryness. Prolonged standing or walking on hard surfaces during summer outings adds to the stress placed on the skin of the feet. Swimmers and beachgoers may experience dry skin from continuous water exposure, which strips the skin of natural oils. A podiatrist can help treat dry, cracked heels and reduce the risk of infection or deeper skin damage. If your heels are cracking, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Patrick Bruton, DPM from Big Country foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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.

Osteoporosis weakens foot bones by lowering their mineral density, making the feet more vulnerable to stress fractures and deformities. The bones in the feet are under constant pressure during walking and standing, and weakened bone structure increases the risk of small, fatigue-related foot fractures. In some patients, uneven posture or poor gait can worsen this by concentrating pressure on specific areas of the foot. Osteoporosis may also contribute to changes in foot shape due to bone loss, leading to pain and mobility issues. A podiatrist can assess posture, identify areas of abnormal pressure using diagnostic imaging and pressure mapping, and recommend medical treatment to reduce fracture risk. In some cases, surgery may be needed if fractures occur or deformities become severe. Ongoing monitoring may be necessary to catch early signs of deterioration and avoid complications, especially in older adults and people with diabetes. If the bones in your feet are cracking, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Patrick Bruton, DPM from Big Country foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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.