Ankle sprains are common injuries that can occur during various activities in everyday life. Ankle sprains can be caused by walking on uneven terrain or engaging in sports that involve rapid changes in direction or sudden stops, starts, and pivots.  A sprain can also be caused by falling while keeping the foot planted on the ground. This exerts sudden and excessive force on the ankle, causing it to twist. Choice of footwear can play a role in ankle health. Wearing high-heeled or unsupportive shoes can increase the risk of instability and make ankle sprains more likely. A history of ankle sprains is a significant risk factor. If a previous ankle injury was not effectively rehabilitated, weakened ligaments may not provide the support they once did, increasing the risk of reinjury. Symptoms of a sprained ankle include immediate pain, swelling, discoloration, or bruising around the sprained area. Additionally, weakness can make it challenging or impossible to bear weight. In severe cases where ankle ligaments are torn, you may feel a popping or snapping sensation during the sprain. If you suspect you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist as quickly as possible following the injury.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Renee Rodriquez, DPM from Foot Clinic of South Texas. 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 office located in Brownsville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Breaking a toe can result in pain, swelling, and bruising due to internal bleeding. The area may look misshapen, especially if the bone ends are displaced or if the fracture extends into the toe joint. The big toe, which bears more weight during walking, is especially painful when fractured. Distinguishing a broken toe from a sprain or strain can be challenging, but a misshaped toe often indicates a fracture. An X-ray is typically the definitive method for diagnosis. Broken toes are common and often do not require specific treatment. However, it is essential to see a podiatrist if pain intensifies, swelling persists, or if the toe appears misaligned. For more severe toe fractures, treatment can involve a cast, especially for the big toe, which plays an essential role in balance. Surgery may be necessary in some cases, which can involve using metal wires, plates, or external fixation methods. Possible complications post-fracture include failed bone healing, infections, stiffness, persistent pain, and post-traumatic arthritis. If you have a broken toe that is not healing on its own, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for necessary treatment.

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 Renee Rodriquez, DPM from Foot Clinic of South 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 Brownsville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Managing arch pain can be a hindrance to your daily activities, but specific types of exercises can help to alleviate this discomfort and strengthen the arches of your feet. One effective exercise is the arch stretch. This can help foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis Simply sit on the floor and place a tennis ball under the arch of your foot. Roll the ball gently, allowing it to massage the arch area. Another helpful foot stretch is toe tapping. While seated, lift your foot off the ground and tap your toes on the floor, starting slowly and gradually increasing the speed. Towel curls are excellent for strengthening the muscles of the arch. These are done by sitting on a chair with your foot on a towel placed on the floor, and scrunching the towel using your toes. Regularly performing these exercises can relieve arch pain and contribute to stronger, more resilient feet. If you would like additional foot stretches to perform for relieving arch pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Renee Rodriquez, DPM from Foot Clinic of South Texas. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

• Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
• Similar to the previous one, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
• Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
• Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising and ice and rest the foot. It is advised to then see a podiatrist for help.

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

Maggot therapy, also known as Maggot Debridement Therapy, MDT, or Larval therapy, has a long history in medicine and has gained recent recognition for its unique ability to save limbs. This biotherapy involves placing disinfected maggots, often the larvae of the greenbottle blowfly, on wounds, such as diabetic foot ulcers, to debride necrotic tissues. It is particularly effective when antibiotics fail to combat bacterial infections in non-healing wounds, potentially preventing limb amputations. Maggots work by secreting special enzymes, which break down necrotic tissue, making it easier to digest and absorb. They also produce antibiotic-like agents and release ammonia to inhibit bacterial growth in the wound. Administration involves placing sterile maggots within a dressing on the wound for 48 to 72 hours. This therapy has broad applications, including diabetic ulcers, vascular ulcers, pressure ulcers, and even malignant wounds. Studies have shown that maggot therapy accelerates wound healing, reduces necrotic tissue, and decreases wound odor. While this therapy is highly effective, it should not be used for wounds near vital organs or blood vessels and in septic patients. Additional research can further expand the applications of this therapy, however, it saves 40 to 50 percent of limbs when used as a last resort. If you have a non-healing diabetic foot wound and would like alternative treatments for healing, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss this further.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Renee Rodriquez, DPM from Foot Clinic of South Texas. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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

Dry, cracked heels are a common issue that can cause discomfort. These fissures in the skin often result from dryness, pressure, or various lifestyle and medical factors. While not usually a severe health concern, untreated cracked heels can become painful. This condition typically starts with dry skin. Daily activities such as standing, walking, or running exert pressure on the feet, causing the heel pads to expand. When combined with dryness, the skin can crack, creating openings for bacteria and viruses. Other potential causes of cracked heels include lifestyle choices that can include walking barefoot, taking hot showers, or using harsh soaps. Wearing ill-fitting shoes with poor support can also contribute to cracked heels. On a medical front, factors like diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, fungal infections, and hypothyroidism may also lead to developing cracked heels. Preventing cracked heels involves addressing dry skin and its underlying causes. Moisturizing is key, and products such as custom shoe inserts, padded socks, and heel relief sleeves can help protect and hydrate the skin. To treat existing dry, cracked heels, it is helpful to focus on hydration and protection. If this problem persists or causes pain, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a more advanced treatment plan.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Renee Rodriquez, DPM from Foot Clinic of South Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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

As parents, ensuring the well-being of your children is a top priority, and this extends to their footwear. Selecting the right shoes for your child goes beyond fashion considerations. It is more about promoting the child's comfort, development, and overall health. This can begin with prioritizing the fit. Children's feet are continually growing and developing, so it is helpful to choose shoes that provide enough room for their toes to wiggle and grow. Measure their feet regularly to ensure a proper fit. Support is another critical factor. Look for shoes with good arch support and cushioning to absorb shock during play and daily activities. Sturdy soles with good traction can help to prevent slips and falls. Air circulation is essential, as your child's feet can sweat quite a bit. Choose shoes made from breathable materials to reduce the risk of fungal infections. Lastly, involve your child in the selection process. Let them try on shoes and assess comfort. This empowers them and ensures that they are more likely to wear the shoes you buy. By keeping these factors in mind, you can make informed choices when shopping for your child's shoes, promoting their comfort, health, and happy feet. If you would like additional information about what type of shoes to buy for your child, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist. 

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Renee Rodriquez, DPM of Foot Clinic of South Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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

As we age, the risk of falls in our homes becomes a growing concern. The good news is that with a few thoughtful modifications, you can transform your living space into a safe haven for elderly family members. This can begin by decluttering walkways, ensuring clear, unobstructed paths, followed by removing tripping hazards such as loose rugs and electrical cords. Installing handrails and grab bars which can provide essential support, is critical in bathrooms and staircases. Adequate lighting is vital, and dimly lit areas can be brightened, in addition to adding nightlights which can reduce the risk of stumbling in the dark. Consider anti-slip flooring options to improve traction. In the bathroom, invest in a shower chair and non-slip mats to prevent accidents. Regular maintenance of your home's infrastructure, including checking for loose floorboards or uneven surfaces, is also important. If you would like additional information about effective methods to keep your home safe for senior family members, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Renee Rodriquez, DPM from Foot Clinic of South Texas. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

Hammertoe, a relatively common foot condition, is often the source of discomfort and inconvenience for many individuals. This deformity occurs when the middle joint of one or more of your smaller toes becomes bent and stuck in an abnormal position. The affected toes often resemble the shape of a hammer, hence the name. Hammertoes can develop for a variety of reasons, including genetics, foot structure, or wearing ill-fitting shoes. High heels and shoes that squeeze the toes together can exacerbate the problem. Hammertoes can lead to pain, corns, calluses, and difficulty finding comfortable footwear. While the condition can be hereditary, early intervention through wearing proper footwear and certain medical treatment can help prevent or alleviate the discomfort associated with hammertoes, allowing individuals to maintain healthier and happier feet. If you are afflicted with hammertoe, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can guide you toward effective relief options.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Renee Rodriquez, DPM from Foot Clinic of South Texas. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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