Nurse is taking care of patient after nail operation

You Broke Your Toe Now What?

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Oh no, you broke your toe, now what? A broken toe could be serious, but you’ll need a podiatrist in Austin, TX, to look at it and recommend a treatment. So, let’s look at the difference between minor and severe toe fractures, the symptoms of each, how they are treated, and how long it will take to heal.

You Broke Your Toe Now What?

Once an accident occurs, you will need to determine whether your toe injury is a minor or severe fracture. Then, your podiatrist can recommend the right treatment for a broken toe in Austin, TX.

The Symptoms of a Minor Toe Fracture

  • Swelling
  • Bruising (skin and/or toenail)
  • Throbbing
  • Difficulty moving your toe

The Symptoms of a Severe Toe Fracture

  • Crooked toe
  • Disfigured toe
  • Tingling toe
  • Numb toe
  • Bleeding wound on the toe

How to Treat a Minor Toe Fracture

A minor toe fracture will generally heal without surgery or causing any complications. However, it’s important that you don’t put any pressure on the injured toe. Your podiatrist will probably put a cast or splint on it to prevent movement so it can heal. Additionally, an ice pack can be placed on the injury to help prevent swelling until you can get to the doctor.

How to Treat a Severe Toe Fracture

The treatment for a severe toe fracture could include a cast, splint, or even surgery. Over-the-counter and/or prescription medications will be necessary to help control the pain. You will need to take immediate action to fix your toe fracture, or future complications could occur.

How Long Will It Take for a Toe Injury to Heal?

A minor toe injury will usually take between four and six weeks to heal. However, if you have a severe toe injury, you can expect it to take up to eight weeks or more to heal.

Do You Need a Podiatrist in Austin, TX?

If you are looking for a podiatrist in Austin, TX, please Contact Jeffery Lamour, DPM, PA today. Dr. Lamour has more than 20 years of experience in treating both acute and chronic issues of the feet and ankles. Our state-of-the-art offices are warm and welcoming, and we treat patients of all ages.

Plantar Fasciitis vs. A Heel Spur: How to Tell the Difference

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Heel spurs and plantar fasciitis both cause heel pain, which can make the two disorders difficult to distinguish from one another. We’ll look at the location and symptoms of the pain so it’s easier to tell one from the other.

Front Vs. Back

Heel pain from plantar fasciitis in Austin, TX, is caused by the inflammation of the tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. This tissue might be thick and relatively resilient, but it’s not immune to general flare-ups. Because plantar fasciitis in Austin is a problem with the tissue, you’ll feel the pain in the front part of the heel. With a heel spur, which is caused by calcium deposits on the heel bone, you’re more likely to feel it in the back of the heel.

Morning Vs. Activity

When it comes to the type and timing of the pain, the two conditions will often present as opposites. Heel spurs present as dull aches, while plantar is typically far more intense. Plantar fasciitis can be worsened when you’re at rest, which is why you’ll feel it more if you’ve been sitting for a while or after you first get out of bed.

With heel spurs, you’re likely to feel it if you’ve done any type of activity on your feet. It’s worth noting that plantar fasciitis can also be worsened after activity. A rule of thumb is that if you have the pain both early in the morning and after activity, you likely don’t have heel spurs.

Foot Doctors in Austin, TX

No matter what types of heel pain you’re experiencing, the right podiatrist in Austin can help you work it out. Visit Dr. Jeffrey Lamour, DPM, PA, with locations in Austin and Pflugerville, to get a handle on your condition.

When NOT to Use OTC Shoe Inserts

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The companies that make over-the-counter (OTC) shoe inserts also make a lot of promises about what these products can do and who they can help. The question is when should you use them and when should you see a professional about the problem? We’ll look at how you can figure out if these products will do what they promise and whether they’re worth the chance.

Foot Pain and OTC Inserts

Most people will buy inserts when they have some type of foot pain, and this can include moderate heel pain from a condition like plantar fasciitis. However, while It’s true that inserts may relieve temporary discomfort, they don’t typically address the underlying problem that’s causing the pain.

So, let’s say that you’re gearing up to be on your feet for 8+ hours during the day. You could reasonably buy inserts to protect your feet from the constant pressure and friction. You might also use them if you have occasional knee pain to help stabilize your gait while you’re out. For more complex or chronic foot pain in Austin, TX, it’s better to see a podiatrist.

Customized Orthotics in Pflugerville, TX

Customized orthotics from the right podiatrist in Pflugerville, TX will be made specifically for your foot, making it more likely that you’ll get the treatment that you’re looking for. When you delay medical care, you typically save money and time in the short term. Over time, though, you can end up spending more on temporary solutions while your foot is actually getting worse.

If you’re looking for a podiatrist that can walk you through the orthotic options for you, the staff of Dr. Jeffrey Lamour, DPM, PA can tell you more about how your foot will react to the support and what you can expect after the recommended course of treatment.

Treatment Options for Ankle Pain

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Many things could cause that pain in your ankle, including injury or chronic disease. Before your podiatrist in Pflugerville, TX, can treat your ankle pain, they must discover the source of your discomfort.

Achilles Tendonitis

Your Achilles tendon is the band of tight tissue that connects the heel of your foot to your calf muscles. And when you cause damage to this tendon, your body will let you know in several ways, including pain that feels as though it’s located in your ankles. Sports injuries are the most common causes of damage to the Achilles tendon, and as long as the damage is mild, such as from overuse, simple treatment plans will help alleviate pain. Treatment may include:

  • Anti-inflammatory medications
  • Simple stretching exercises
  • Orthotic devices, such as wedges worn in shoes to deflect pressure from the tendon
  • Surgery

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a painful condition that can affect the ankle joint by wearing away the protective cartilage that separates the bones. Treatment for osteoarthritis may include:

  • Pain relieving medications
  • Anti-inflammatory medications
  • Physical therapy
  • Cortisone injections
  • Surgery

Sprained Ankle

Sprains happen when you roll or twist your ankle so severely that it damages the surrounding ligaments. If you’ve ever had a sprain injury, you understand just how painful they can be. If your podiatrist diagnoses a sprained ankle, they may prescribe the following treatments:

  • Wrapping the ankle with an elastic bandage
  • Rest
  • Application of ice
  • Pain medication

If you’re suffering from the discomfort of ankle pain in Pflugerville or Austin, TX, call Dr. Jeffery LaMour, DPM, PA to set up an appointment today. One of our friendly and knowledgeable representatives will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Sources

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/achilles-tendinitis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20369025

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/osteoarthritis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20351930

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sprained-ankle/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353231

Man wearing ankle brace

What Does a Foot Fracture Feel Like?

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A foot fracture, or a broken foot, in Pflugerville or Austin, TX can occur for any number of reasons. While it’s more common in athletes, particularly those who have stepped up their training in the recent past, you can crack the bones in the surface of the foot due to repetitive motion or trauma of nearly every variety. If you’re wondering what it feels like and when it’s time to see a podiatrist, we’ll tell you more about what to do next.

The Nature of a Stress Fracture

A stress fracture in the foot in Pflugerville, TX typically develops if there’s any strain on the bones. The more pressure there is on a single area, the more likely it is that the strain will cause a hairline crack. These cracks are so tiny at the beginning, but they’re similar to a small tear in a piece of paper. In other words, it may not take very long before that tear becomes a much deeper fissure.

Can You Walk on a Fractured Foot?

Thankfully, you typically will get some notification from your body that your foot is in trouble. However, these early signs are mild, meaning you might not even concern yourself with them at first. This is why if you’re feeling any sense of pain or discomfort, particularly in the most commonly injured space between the toes and the ankle or in your heel, you should see a podiatrist in Austin or Pflugerville, TX.

Find a Foot Doctor in Austin, TX

With multiple locations, Dr. Jeffrey Lamour, DPM, PA understands that foot or heel conditions can manifest differently in different people. If you’re concerned about whether you fractured your foot or not, it’s always better to make an appointment than to risk making it worse.

 

Common Symptoms of Neuroma of the Foot

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Oftentimes, patients that visit a podiatrist for diabetic foot care in Austin, TX suspect diabetic neuropathy is causing nerve issues in their feet. However, sometimes, a neuroma of the foot can be to blame. While a neuroma of the foot is nerve-related, they are a separate issue, and the symptoms can be slightly different. Take a look at some symptoms of a neuroma of the foot.

Pain in or Between Your Toes

You may experience pain that feels like it is radiating from either your toes or somewhere in between your toes. The pain may even be most prominent in the forefoot, which is the ridge of tissue that runs just behind your toes. For a lot of people, this means more pain when taking a step since the forefoot and toes are used to propel the body forward while walking.

Odd Nerve Sensations After Long Periods on Your Feet

Neuromas can cause odd sensations in different parts of the foot, but this usually happens after long periods of standing. For example, you may feel like the ball of your foot is numb or prickly and tingling. Or, you may have issues with certain toes having no sensitivity as if they have fallen asleep.

Feeling Like You Have Something in Your Shoes

A lot of people that have a neuroma of the foot will come to a podiatrist with the complaint that it feels like they always have something in their shoe. You may feel like there is a tiny, pea-sized stone just under the ball of your foot when you take a step, for example.

Talk to a Podiatrist in Austin, TX for Help

Ready to discuss nerve issues in your feet with an Austin, TX podiatrist? At the office of Dr. Jefferey Lamour, DPM, PA, we can help. Reach out to schedule an appointment with the foot doctor for a closer look and proper diagnosis.

Back Pain? The Problem Could be With Your Feet

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If you suffer from chronic back pain and it hasn’t responded to massage, weight loss, chiropractic or physical treatment, the problem could be with your feet. Millions of Americans suffer from back pain that is caused by feet problems. While it sounds far-fetched that back pain could be solved by a visit to your podiatrist in Austin, TX, the truth is that many people have had their back pain resolved by podiatrist treatment.

How Feet Can Cause Back Pain

Because of the way our bodies are put together, poor foot health is related to a range of possible issues, including back pain. Most commonly, podiatrists find that back pain is associated with a collapsed arch. This situation puts the entire skeletal system out of balance, which creates pressure on nerves and strain on muscle tissue.

The arch is the part of the foot that rises up beneath the ankle. When the arch collapses, it’s called a fallen arch, or “flat feet.” Interestingly, you can sometimes tell if you have a fallen arch by leaving a wet footprint on the pavement. If the entire foot print is there, it’s likely you have a fallen arch. Otherwise, there would be a blank space between the heel and the ball of the footprint.

Shoes Can Cause Back Pain, Too

If your shoes don’t fit properly, they may be pinching your feet and causing you to walk in an unnatural way. You may be walking on the outer sole or the inner sole instead of in the middle. Either way, this also causes an imbalance in the way your spine moves, which can lead to spinal disc problems and back pain.

Visit your podiatrist in Austin, TX if you have back pain that has worsened or become chronic or time. Chances are there is a treatment for your feet issues that will alleviate the pain.

Prevent Foot Pain from Running with Kinesio Taping

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Running can help you stay in shape, live without stress ruling your life, and genuinely feel good about your body. Unfortunately, it’s also a high-impact activity with the potential to cause injuries, like plantar fasciitis in Austin TX. Kinesio taping can help, however, in decreasing the stress on your tendons and other sensitive structures. Ready to get started in reducing the risk of running injuries? Here’s what you need to know.

How Kinesio Taping Works

Developed by Dr. Kenzo Kase in the late 70s, Kinesio taping serves as a way to give your tendons extra support without restricting movement. The medical-grade elastic tape gets strategically applied to your areas in need of extra support. The tape helps decompress your tissues while you run, effectively preventing repetitive stress injuries, including plantar fasciitis. When properly applied, Kinesio tape can also help your body recover faster after injuries occur.

Which Conditions Benefit from Kinesio Taping

Although Kinesio taping gets used for injury prevention, first and foremost, it’s also an effective tool for helping you heal from:

  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Achilles’ tendonitis
  • Patellofemoral stress syndrome
  • IT band friction syndrome

Your podiatrist will assess your condition and let you know if Kinesio taping could help. Then, they will assist in helping you learn how to properly apply the tape for the best results.

When to Seek Care from Your Austin Podiatrist

Any time you notice pain from running, schedule a visit with your podiatrist in Austin TX. To do that, simply call 512-451-3668 to find a great time to come speak with Dr. LaMour. During your visit, he’ll perform a thorough examination to see if you’re suffering from any injuries and could benefit from his care. You can also discuss Kinesio taping and other injury prevention techniques at that time.

Most Common Winter Sports Injuries Treated by Podiatrists

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Winter sports are always a blast – until injuries take you out of the game, of course. Thankfully, your podiatrist in Austin TX can help you get back on your feet and feeling great once again. Beyond that, podiatrists offer the guidance and support you need to avoid injuries in the first place. Wondering how? Here’s what you need to know.

Common Winter Sports Injuries

While enjoying winter sports, there’s always a risk of injuries, like:

  • Blisters
  • Calluses
  • Sprains
  • Fractures
  • Dislocations

Wearing ultra-warm socks and insulated boots increases your risk of athlete’s foot as well. Plus, if you have peripheral arterial disease, diabetes, or similar conditions, you have a higher risk of developing frostbite while out in the cold.

Even minor injuries should get checked out by a podiatrist. They will help you recover faster plus provide the care needed to avoid serious complications.

Best Ways to Prevent Injuries

Prevention is key, of course, if you’d like your winter sports to continue all season long. You can start by strengthening your body and improving your balance through the daily use of a wobble board. Also, use mat tumbling sessions to work on falling to the side instead of the front or back of your body.

When you go out to enjoy your winter sports, always use all the protective gear possible all the time. Also, make sure that your gear fits you right and feels good throughout the day. If you notice anything feels a bit off, halt your activities and fix your gear before continuing on.

How a Podiatrist in Austin TX Can Help

Did ankle injuries derail your winter sports fun? If so, call 512-451-3668 to schedule a visit with Dr. LaMour. As your podiatrist, he will assess your ankle injuries in Austin TX and create a treatment plan designed to get you back on your feet. You’ll need to start with a full examination at a consultation appointment. So, please feel free to schedule your visit any time.

OUCH! That Stubbed Toe May Be more Problematic Than You Think

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It often happens in the middle of the night, when you’re in a rush, or when you’re not quite watching where you’re going. A stubbed toe can be one of the most painful everyday events, but, thankfully, the pain usually subsides relatively quickly. Nevertheless, there are some instances when a stubbed toe is more than just a painful “stub.” In fact, a hard enough hit can lead to a list of bigger problems. Take a look at just a few of the injuries that can stem from stubbing your toe.

Broken Bones

Believe it or not, broken toes are most often caused by the notorious accidental stub. While the toes in your feet are relatively strong, they do not have a great deal of fatty tissue to protect them. Therefore, hitting your toe directly against something can be enough to cause a fracture. If your toe is broken after you have stubbed it, you will likely know it. The symptoms of a broken toe include:

  • Swelling around your toe or up into your foot
  • A change in the overall shape of the toe
  • Severe pain that gets worse and does not subside
  • Difficulty trying to move your toe

Cracked Toenails

Smacking your toe against a hard surface can cause cracks in your toenail, which can be incredibly painful. While cracked toenails are not necessarily a major health threat, this is an issue to keep an eye on. The toenail will not mend back together; you simply have to wait for the broken portion of the nail to grow. If your toenail comes off or is hanging off and you can’t remove it, it is best to see a podiatrist for advice.

Infection

If the hit against your toe causes a wound, your toe can be prone to infection. In some cases, you can get an internal injury you may not spot right away. For example, a hard enough hit could force the edge of your toenail into the interior tissue of your toe. If bacteria are allowed to get inside this kind of injury, it could easily lead to an infection. Your toe may be red or irritated and feel hot to the touch. If you see any of these signs, schedule a visit to your podiatrist for help.

Get Help for Toe Injuries at an Austin Podiatrist

While your toes are one of the smaller parts of your body, these small body parts have some of the biggest responsibilities. If you suspect you have injured your toe after a run-in with a door frame, table leg, or corner, reach out to us at the office of Dr. Jeffery LaMour, DPM, PA in Austin, TX to schedule an appointment.