August 2024

A broken pinky toe often results from accidental impact or trauma, such as stubbing the toe or dropping a heavy object on it. The symptoms of a fractured pinky toe include significant pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty in moving the toe. In severe cases, the toe may appear deformed or out of alignment. To find relief, it is essential to rest the injured foot and avoid putting weight on it. Relief may be found by elevating the foot as this can assist in minimizing inflammation. Mild pain relievers may alleviate discomfort. In cases of severe injury or if the toe appears dislocated, seeking medical attention from a podiatrist is critical for a proper diagnosis and treatment. If you have fractured your toe, it is suggested that you promptly contact this foot doctor for the appropriate treatment.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Terri Quebedeaux, DPM from Agave Podiatry . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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

Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot. It commonly results from excessive strain, overuse, or wearing improper footwear. Key muscles affecting the plantar fascia include the calf muscles and the Achilles tendon, which, when tight, can exacerbate the condition. Effective stretches to alleviate plantar fasciitis include calf stretches, where you lean against a wall with one foot behind you and gently press the heel down, and the plantar fascia stretch, where you sit, cross one leg over the other, and pull the toes back toward your shin. Incorporating these stretches into your routine can help relieve tension, improve flexibility, and reduce pain associated with plantar fasciitis. If you have heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose plantar fasciitis, and offer effective treatment solutions.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Terri Quebedeaux, DPM  from Agave Podiatry . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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

Diabetes often leads to complications that affect the feet, including peripheral neuropathy. This condition damages peripheral nerves that are responsible for sending signals to the lower limbs and feet. Peripheral neuropathy causes symptoms like tingling, numbness, muscle cramps, and sharp or burning pain. Reduced sensation makes diabetic patients more susceptible to injuries from sharp objects or ill-fitting shoes, as they might not feel pain or pressure. Consequently, small wounds can go unnoticed, leading to infections and potentially severe complications like diabetic foot ulcers. These ulcers may worsen due to poor circulation, which hinders healing and can result in infections spreading to the bone, sometimes necessitating amputation. Managing these issues involves regular foot examinations, wearing proper footwear, and maintaining good blood sugar levels. A podiatrist can provide specialized care to manage symptoms, prevent further complications, and promote foot health. If you have complications of diabetes that are affecting your feet, it is suggested that you add a podiatrist to your medical team.

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 Terri Quebedeaux, DPM from Agave Podiatry . 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 offices located in Seguin, LaVernia, Gonzales, and Lockhart, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Juvenile arthritis, also known as juvenile idiopathic arthritis or JIA, is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects children under the age of 16. This autoimmune disorder can impact various joints, including those in the feet, leading to pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Early signs in the feet may include limping, reluctance to walk, or swelling surrounding the ankles and toes. The inflammation associated with JIA can damage cartilage and bone, causing long-term joint issues if not managed properly. Children with JIA may experience difficulty participating in physical activities, impacting their overall quality of life. Treatment for juvenile arthritis in the feet includes a combination of medication to reduce inflammation and pain, exercises to maintain joint function and mobility, and custom orthotics to provide support and alleviate pressure on affected joints. If your child has JIA, it is strongly suggested that you include a podiatrist among the healthcare team for regular check-ups that are essential for monitoring this condition and adjusting treatment plans.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Terri Quebedeaux, DPM from Agave Podiatry . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

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