Podiatrist in Austin, TX

Dr. Jeffrey LaMour, DPM, PA

Foot and ankle problems are common, especially among older people. In fact, research shows that about 20 percent of all adults age 45 and older experience foot and ankle pain; about two-thirds of those with foot and ankle pain said the issues caused moderate disability in some aspect of their daily lives. Fortunately, our staff provides safe and effective treatment for foot and ankle problems.

Foot Pain and Treatments

Achilles tendonitis

Achilles tendonitis affects the Achilles tendon, which is the thick band of tissue that connects the muscles of your calf at the back of your lower leg with your heel. The pain usually starts as a mild ache at the back of your leg or in your heel but may worsen after you go for a long run, climb stairs, or sprint. Inflammation associated with Achilles tendinitis may result in tenderness or stiffness, particularly in the morning, which usually improves with gentle activity.

Achilles tendonitis tends to affect runners who have suddenly increased the intensity or duration of their runs, and “weekend warriors” who only play sports occasionally.

Dr. LaMour provides treatment for Achilles tendinitis. Treatment varies according to the severity of the condition. Stretching exercises can relieve inflammation and discomfort associated with mild Achilles tendinitis. For example, while extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection can alleviate symptoms in more severe cases. ESWT and PRP stimulate circulation and promote natural healing.

Ingrown toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of the toenail presses against the soft tissue alongside the nail bed in a way that causes the toenail to grow into the tissue rather than above or alongside it. The pain from an ingrown toenail can prevent you from wearing your normal shoes.

High heels and some other shoes can lead to ingrown toenails by forcing the toe into a narrow shape; trimming the toenails into a curved shape rather than straight across can increase your risk for developing ingrown toenails. Ingrown toenails are more common in people with a certain toenail or foot shape that causes excess pressure on the tissue.

Even minor ingrown toenails require treatment, as infection is common with ingrown toenails. Treatment for ingrown toenails includes simple partial and full nail-removal procedures that alleviate pressure. You will be able to wear your normal shoes as your toe heals.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a condition that causes a toe to have an abnormal bend in the middle joint that causes the toe to bend downward, resembling a hammer. Your shoe can press against the joint, resulting in pain any time you wear shoes. Furthermore, your toe can rub against the shoe to cause abrasion and discomfort. Hammertoe can make walking, climbing stairs, and running quite uncomfortable.

Hammertoe is often the result of wearing shoes that are tight at the toes or feature high heels. Wearing these shoes can cause an imbalance in the muscles, tendons and ligaments that normally keep the joint straight.

Our office provides treatment for hammertoe that can include taping or splinting the affected toe for a pre-determine period and recommending exercises that stretch the bent joints. Your foot doctor can also recommend shoes that help you avoid the development of hammertoe.

Plantar fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis affect the tough band of connective tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, from your heel to your toes. This band of tissue, known as the plantar fascia, supports the arch of your foot and provides flexibility. Tiny tears can form in the plantar fascia, and the tissue can become irritated and inflamed.

Plantar fasciitis can cause pain at the bottom of your foot and sometimes heel pain. Symptoms are typically worse after a period of inactivity, such as when you first step out of bed in the morning. Symptoms go away after you move around a bit, but return following another stretch of inactivity.

Basic treatment for plantar fasciitis includes stretching exercises that reduce inflammation and stiffness of the plantar fascia. Our podiatrist can also perform advanced treatments for plantar fasciitis. These advanced treatments include TOPAZ® that uses the power of radiofrequency energy to stimulate circulation and promote natural healing, Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) that uses the natural healing power of your own platelets, and Shockwave therapy (SWT) that directs waves of energy through the skin to promote healing responses in the plantar fascia.

Toenail fungus

Toenail fungus is frequently painful and always unsightly. The condition is the result of tiny fungi, known as dermatophytes, which can enter the skin and start growing in the nail bed beneath your toenail. The fungi prefer warm, damp locations, such as locker rooms, hot tub and pool decking, and public showers. Infection with toenail fungus can cause discoloration and thickening of the toenail.

Because of its location, toenail fungus can be difficult to treat. Your podiatrist in Austin offers advanced treatments for toenail fungus. These treatments can include the PinPointe laser system, an FDA-cleared laser device made especially to treat toenail fungus.

Contact Our Austin Podiatrist Today!

Don’t let foot and ankle problems cause mobility issues, contact our office today to schedule your appointment!