Wearing high-heeled shoes can be especially challenging for people with flat feet, as the lack of arch support causes increased strain on the toes, arches, and ankles. High heels shift body weight forward, placing excessive pressure on the forefoot and forcing the ankle into an unnatural position. This can contribute to foot fatigue, pain, and an increased risk of bunions, hammertoes, and ankle instability. Without proper arch support, the foot may overpronate, leading to misalignment and additional stress on the lower leg. People with flat feet may also find it more difficult to maintain their balance in high heels, which can increase the likelihood of ankle sprains. A podiatrist can assess your foot mechanics and recommend custom orthotics or shoe modifications to improve comfort and stability. In cases where conservative approaches do not relieve pain, surgery may be considered to address structural concerns. If you have flat feet and experience pain wearing high heeled shoes, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Alex Kim, DPM from AVID Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

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

A toe infection can cause pain, swelling, redness, and discharge, making daily activities difficult to complete. Common causes of toe infections include fungal infections like athlete’s foot or toenail fungus, bacterial infections from cuts or injuries, and ingrown toenails. Fungal infections thrive in warm, moist environments and can spread through shared surfaces or personal items. Bacterial infections often develop when bacteria enter the skin through small breaks, such as improperly trimmed nails or blisters. People with diabetes or circulation problems are at a higher risk, as they may not feel early symptoms, which allows infections to get worse. Signs of a more serious infection include fever, warmth surrounding the toe, or red streaks moving up the foot. Without treatment, an infection can spread to deeper tissues, increasing the risk of serious complications. A podiatrist can diagnose the cause of your infected toe, clean the affected area, and recommend the appropriate treatment. Antifungal medication, antibiotics, or minor procedures to remove infected tissue are among the options. If you believe your toe has become infected, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Alex Kim, DPM of AVID Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Little Elm, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle pain can stem from various conditions, ranging from everyday injuries to underlying medical issues. Common causes include sprains, strains, fractures, and arthritis, which can lead to swelling, stiffness, and discomfort. Overuse injuries, such as tendonitis, are also frequent, especially in athletes and active individuals. Less common causes of ankle pain include nerve compression, gout, infections, or vascular issues, which may result in persistent or worsening symptoms. Structural problems, like flat feet or high arches, can also contribute to chronic discomfort. Ignoring ankle pain may lead to long-term mobility issues. If you are experiencing ongoing pain, swelling, or instability of your ankles, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate care.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Alex Kim, DPM from AVID Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

Snowboarders often suffer from a range of foot and ankle issues caused by falls, tight boots, and cold conditions. Impact from jumps and rough landings can lead to bruises, sprains, and even fractures. When pain appears on the outer front of the ankle, careful diagnosis is very important. Sometimes, a small fracture can be mistaken for a simple ligament sprain, yet it might need surgery. Doctors should examine such pain closely to determine the real cause. Other problems include blisters, swelling, and nerve pain that can worsen with continued pressure. Wearing properly fitting boots and doing regular stretching exercises can help reduce these issues. Regular foot check-ups can stop further damage and speed a full recovery on the slopes. If pain or swelling from a snowboarding experience does not improve, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a thorough check-up and proper care.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Alex Kim, DPM of AVID Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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

Plantar fibroma is a benign growth that develops in the arch of the foot, specifically in the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. This condition results in the formation of nodules or lumps, which may be felt as hard, firm areas beneath the skin. The primary cause of plantar fibroma is not well understood, but genetic factors, trauma, or abnormal foot mechanics may contribute to its development. Symptoms typically include localized pain or discomfort, especially when standing or walking, and the presence of a visible lump or thickening in the foot. Over time, the fibroma may become larger, making it more difficult to wear certain shoes or engage in physical activities. If you have a lump on the bottom of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment.

A plantar fibroma may disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Alex Kim, DPM of AVID Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Plantar Fibroma

A plantar fibroma is a fibrous knot in the arch of the foot. It is embedded in the plantar fascia which is a band of tissue that extends from the heel to the toes along the bottom of the foot. There can be multiple plantar fibromas in the feet at the same time. There are no known causes for this condition. If you have a plantar fibroma, there will be a bump in the arch of your foot that cannot be missed. Any associated pain is most often due to a shoe rubbing against the nodule. Non-surgical options, such as steroid injections, physical therapy, and orthotics should be tried first. Surgery is a last resort and is the only thing that will remove a plantar fibroma entirely. Consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and to determine the treatment regimen that is right for you.

What Causes a Plantar Fibroma?

While there are no specific causes identified, a plantar fibroma can possibly come from genetic predisposition or the formation of scar tissue that forms from healing the tears in the plantar fascia.

What Are the Symptoms of a Plantar Fibroma?

There will be a noticeable lump in the arch of the foot that may or may not cause pain. If pain is felt, it is typically because a shoe is rubbing up against the lump or when walking or standing barefoot.

Treatment and Prevention

A plantar fibroma will not disappear without treatment, but it can get smaller and be a non-issue. If pain persists, a podiatrist examines the foot and when the arch of the foot is pressed, pain can be felt down to the toes. An MRI or biopsy might be performed to help diagnose or evaluate the plantar fibroma. The following non-surgical options are generally enough to reduce the size and pain of these nodules:

• Steroid injections
• Orthotics
• Physical therapy to help apply anti-inflammatory creams on the bump 

Surgery is considered if the mass increases in size and the patient continues to feel pain after non-surgical methods are tried.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Little Elm, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can affect the feet, often causing pain, swelling, and circulation problems. Inflammation from lupus may lead to joint damage, resulting in conditions such as Jaccoud’s arthropathy, where the toes become misaligned, making walking difficult. Polyarthritis can also develop, causing persistent stiffness and discomfort in the foot and ankle joints. Many people with lupus experience Raynaud’s phenomenon, which reduces blood flow to the toes, leading to cold, numb, or discolored feet. This condition can make standing or walking painful, especially in colder temperatures. Lupus may also cause sores or blisters on the feet to heal slowly, increasing the risk of infection. Nerve damage linked to lupus can result in tingling, burning sensations, or loss of feeling in the feet. A podiatrist can help manage these symptoms by evaluating your foot structure, addressing circulation concerns, and recommending treatments that improve mobility and reduce pain. In severe cases, surgery may be needed to correct deformities. If you have foot pain that may be related to lupus, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment solutions.

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly.  If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Alex Kim, DPM from AVID Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable.  Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet. 

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

A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, as the top of the toe angles toward the inner toes. This misalignment can lead to pain, swelling, and redness surroundig the joint. Over time, bunions may become more noticeable, with the bump growing larger and causing the skin to thicken or develop corns. Bunions are often caused by genetics, but factors like wearing tight shoes, high heels, or arthritis can also contribute. Symptoms include pain when walking, tenderness, and difficulty in finding comfortable shoes. Treatment options range from non-surgical to surgical solutions. A podiatrist can recommend changes to footwear, custom orthotics, and targeted exercises to ease pain and improve foot alignment. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to realign the toe and remove the bony bump. If you have a bunion causing discomfort or affecting your mobility, a podiatrist can provide personalized care. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment to explore your best treatment options.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Alex Kim, DPM of AVID Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

A bruised toenail, also known as a subungual hematoma, occurs when blood collects beneath the nail due to trauma or injury. This condition is typically caused by dropping something heavy on the toe, stubbing the toe, or repetitive pressure, such as from wearing  tight-fitting shoes. The force from these actions can rupture blood vessels under the nail, causing blood to accumulate, which leads to pain, swelling, and discoloration. As the blood gathers, the toenail may turn a dark purple, red, or black color. In more severe cases, the pressure from the blood can cause significant discomfort and may even lead to the nail becoming loose or falling off. It is important to monitor the injury to ensure that it does not become infected. If you have bruised your toenail and it is causing toe pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Alex Kim, DPM of AVID Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Little Elm, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.