Items filtered by date: October 2024

Foot swelling, or edema, is a common occurrence during pregnancy, often resulting from increased fluid retention and hormonal changes. As the body prepares for childbirth, the growing uterus puts pressure on the blood vessels in the pelvis, which can impede circulation and lead to swollen feet and ankles. To find relief, pregnant women should elevate their feet whenever possible, stay well-hydrated, and wear supportive footwear. Gentle foot stretches can also improve circulation, and simple exercises like ankle rotations and toe stretches help promote blood flow. Additionally, taking regular breaks to walk around can alleviate discomfort. If your feet have become swollen during your pregnancy and you are experiencing worsening discomfort, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for treatment.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Patrick Bruton, DPM from Big Country foot and Ankle. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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.

Flat feet, or fallen arches, are common in children and can be attributed to various factors. Genetic predisposition often plays a significant role, as flat feet can run in families. In many cases, children may develop arches as they grow, but some may continue to have flat feet into adulthood. Other contributing factors include ligament laxity and muscle weakness, which can affect the foot's structure. Symptoms of flat feet often include discomfort or pain in the feet, especially after prolonged activity. Children may also experience fatigue, difficulty standing for long periods, or balance issues. Flat feet can lead to complications such as pain in the knees, hips, or lower back. If your child is experiencing pain or discomfort from having flat feet, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can provide effective relief solutions.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Patrick Bruton, DPM from Big Country foot and Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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.

Selecting the right brace for an ankle sprain is important to ensure proper healing and support during recovery. Several types of ankle braces are available depending on the severity of your injury and activity level. Lace-up braces provide a snug, customizable fit with laces and straps. These are ideal for athletes needing extra support or recovering from strains. For mild sprains or chronic instability, compression sleeves offer both light support and stability for daily activities. If your injury is more severe, moderate to maximum support braces, featuring adjustable straps or side stays, can help prevent further injury while maintaining mobility. Full-shell protection, like a boot brace, is recommended for serious sprains or fractures, providing maximum stability. Features include a rocker sole to reduce pressure on the foot during walking. A podiatrist can offer advice on the appropriate ankle brace needed for your specific injury. If you have endured a sprained ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, 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.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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.

Pediatric foot and ankle pain can arise from various factors, including skeletal maturity, minor trauma, repetitive stress, and abnormal biomechanics. As children grow, their bones and joints are still developing, which can sometimes lead to discomfort or pain due to changes in skeletal maturity. Minor trauma, such as a twist or bump, can also result in localized pain. Repetitive stress from activities like running or sports can strain growing tissues and cause discomfort. Abnormal biomechanics, including issues like flat feet or improper foot alignment, can contribute to chronic pain and discomfort. Addressing these causes with appropriate interventions, such as proper footwear and medical evaluation, is essential for managing symptoms. If your child has foot or ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can diagnose the cause and offer effective treatment solutions.

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.