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Our practice offers Spanish speaking staff on hand

Port Neches, TX (409) 727-1122

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May 2021

Tuesday, 25 May 2021 00:00

Why Does My Pinky Toe Hurt?

Although the pinky toe is small, an injury to this toe can be very painful. Stubbing your toe, dropping something heavy on it, hitting it while playing a sport, or wearing tight shoes can all cause pinky toe pain. Common causes of pinky toe pain may include a toe fracture, in which the toe bone is fully broken, or a stress fracture, in which the bone has one or more tiny cracks. Your toe can also hurt if it has been dislocated or sprained. A specific type of bunion, called a tailor’s bunion or bunionette, can form on the pinky toe, as can corns and calluses. If you are experiencing pain in any of your toes, please see a podiatrist, who can diagnose and treat your condition.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Pete O’Donald, DPM from Texas. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

  • Swelling
  • Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
  • Stiffness
  • Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

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

Read more about What to Know About a Broken Toe

The medical condition that is known as diabetes can develop from elevated blood sugar levels. Diabetic patients often notice their feet are affected, and extra care is needed to prevent painful foot conditions. It is important to look for small cuts and bruises on the feet, as these may be difficult to feel as a result of foot numbness caused by diabetic neuropathy. The feet can be helped by controlling blood sugar levels, which is accomplished by monitoring food and drink intake. Proper daily foot care can include washing and drying the feet thoroughly, and applying a good moisturizer on the heels. Additionally, trimming the toenails correctly and wearing shoes that fit right can make the feet feel comfortable. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can effectively manage diabetes.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Pete O’Donald, DPM from Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

  • Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
  • Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
  • Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Read more about Diabetic Foot Care
Thursday, 13 May 2021 00:00

Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?

If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!

Cracked heels are a common foot problem that can affect up to one in five adults. While cracked heels aren’t usually a big issue for most, they can lead to discomfort and severe pain. There are a variety of factors that can lead to cracked heels. These include standing for long periods of time, walking barefoot, using harsh soaps, dry skin from the climate, and shoes that don’t support the heels. Medical causes such as a vitamin deficiency, fungal infection, obesity, or pregnancy can also lead to cracked heels. In order to prevent cracked heels, make sure to wear shoes that properly support the heels by avoiding shoes with an open back, tall skinny heel, or shoes that are too tight. Staying hydrated, using a foot cream, avoiding standing in one place for a long period of time, and using custom shoe inserts are all ways to help prevent and treat cracked heels. If you have painful cracked heels, consulting with a podiatrist is suggested for a proper treatment method.   

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Pete O’Donald, DPM from Texas. 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 office located in Nederland, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Solutions for Cracked Heels
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