Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, affects the blood vessels that carry blood to the legs and feet. It develops when arteries in the legs become narrowed, reducing the amount of blood that reaches nearby tissues. A common cause is atherosclerosis, which occurs when fatty material called plaque builds up along artery walls. Reduced circulation means the muscles may not receive enough blood and oxygen during activity. As PAD becomes more severe, circulation can remain limited even while a person is resting. Diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol can increase the risk of developing PAD.

Poor circulation from PAD can cause noticeable symptoms in the lower legs and feet. Pain, aching, or burning may occur during walking or exercise and improve after several minutes of rest. Some people develop numbness in the legs or feet while resting. The affected foot may also feel cool or appear pale. As the condition progresses, pain may begin with less activity and eventually occur at rest. Severe PAD can cause slow-healing sores on the feet or toes. Skin discoloration and changes in the toenails may also develop. These symptoms are important because reduced circulation can make it harder for damaged tissues to heal properly.

A podiatrist can examine the feet for signs that may be associated with poor circulation and determine when further medical evaluation is necessary. An examination may reveal a weak pulse, skin changes, or slow-healing sores. PAD can be evaluated with tests that compare blood pressure in the arms and legs or examine blood flow through the arteries. Because severe PAD can lead to serious complications, changes such as new foot sores should not be ignored. A foot that suddenly becomes cool, pale, or numb also requires medical attention. If poor circulation is causing persistent foot pain or noticeable changes in your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate care options.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Jeffrey Radack, DPM of Texas Regional Foot & Ankle Clinics. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness 
• Numbness or cramping in the legs
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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

Gout is a form of arthritis that can cause sudden and intense joint pain. It develops when uric acid crystals collect in a joint and cause inflammation. Uric acid is a substance the body produces when it breaks down certain foods and drinks. Gout frequently affects the joint at the base of the big toe, although other joints can be involved. Symptoms include severe pain, redness, and swelling. The affected joint can also feel warm and extremely sensitive to touch. A gout attack can develop within a few hours and make standing or walking very uncomfortable.

High levels of uric acid in the blood increase the risk of gout, although not everyone with a high level develops the condition. Certain health problems can increase the risk, including kidney disease, high blood pressure, and obesity. Some medications can also contribute to gout. A podiatrist can examine a painful, swollen foot and review the patient's symptoms and medical history. Testing can include blood work or imaging tests to help evaluate the affected joint. In some cases, fluid can be removed from a swollen joint and examined for uric acid crystals. Proper diagnosis is important because an infection can cause similar joint symptoms.

Treatment for gout focuses on controlling inflammation and reducing the risk of future attacks.  Prescription medications can reduce pain and inflammation during an attack. Other medications can lower uric acid levels and help prevent repeated attacks. A podiatrist can also monitor the affected foot for joint damage and other complications. Repeated gout attacks can eventually damage joints and interfere with normal movement. Severe gout can also cause hard deposits of uric acid crystals beneath the skin. Proper medical management can help protect joint health and maintain comfortable movement. If you have symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition. 

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Jeffrey Radack, DPM from Texas Regional Foot & Ankle Clinics. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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

Tingling in the feet can feel like pins and needles, buzzing, or mild electric shocks. It can affect one foot or both feet. Tingling that continues or returns can signal a problem. Nerve pressure, poor blood flow, and diabetes are possible causes. An injury to the foot, ankle, or lower back can also irritate a nerve. In some patients, vitamin shortages or other health conditions affect nerve function.

Other symptoms can help a podiatrist understand what is happening. Tingling can occur with numbness, burning pain, or unusual sensitivity. Some patients also notice weakness or trouble with balance. A compressed nerve near the ankle can send tingling into the heel or sole. Nerve damage related to diabetes can begin in the toes and spread through the feet. Reduced blood flow can make the feet feel cold or change their color. Tingling that starts suddenly with severe weakness requires prompt medical attention. A foot wound, swelling, or redness also deserves timely care, especially for a patient with diabetes.

A podiatrist can review when the tingling began and what affects it. The examination includes checking skin condition, blood flow, and muscle strength. The podiatrist can test feelings in different parts of the feet and look for nerve pressure. Imaging, blood tests, or nerve tests can help identify the cause. Treatment depends on the findings. A podiatrist can protect areas with reduced feeling and address pressure caused by foot structure. The doctor can recommend properly fitted shoes or custom orthotics. Regular foot checks can help detect injuries that a patient may not feel. Early evaluation can reduce the risk of complications and help preserve safe movement. If you have tingling in the feet that does not go away, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Jeffrey Radack, DPM from Texas Regional Foot & Ankle Clinics. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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

Pronation is the natural inward rolling motion of the foot as it lands while running. This movement absorbs shock and helps the foot adjust to the ground. Problems can develop when the foot rolls inward too far, called overpronation. The foot can also roll inward too little, known as underpronation or supination. Either pattern can change how force travels through the feet, ankles, and legs. Some runners experience no symptoms, while others develop arch, heel, or ankle pain. These may also affect the knees or shins as the body adjusts to poor foot movement.

Several factors can contribute to pronation problems in runners. Flat feet, high arches, and weak foot muscles can affect how the feet move. Running form and training habits can also place added stress on areas. Shoes that lack proper support or do not match a runner’s foot type can worsen discomfort. Signs include uneven shoe wear, repeated foot injuries, and pain after exercise. However, shoe wear alone cannot confirm an abnormal gait. A podiatrist can watch the patient walk or run and examine the foot’s structure. This evaluation can show whether pronation contributes to pain or another condition is responsible.

Treatment depends on symptoms, foot structure, and activity level. A podiatrist can recommend supportive running shoes with suitable cushioning. Custom orthotics may be prescribed to improve foot alignment and distribute pressure more evenly. The podiatrist can also assess training patterns and suggest safe changes to running distance or intensity. When an injury is present, treatment can focus on reducing pressure and protecting the area. Follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to check whether symptoms and movement have improved. Addressing pronation problems can help runners move efficiently and reduce stress on the feet. It can lower the risk of repeated pain that interrupts training. If you have foot pain during or after running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Jeffrey Radack, DPM from Texas Regional Foot & Ankle Clinics. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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

Toe pain can interfere with walking, exercise, and other daily activities. Several problems can affect the toes. Exercising too much or wearing shoes that are too tight can lead to soreness. Pain and swelling around a nail can point to an ingrown toenail. A hard, bony lump near the big toe can be a bunion. Sudden joint pain with hot, swollen, or red skin can be linked to gout, a form of arthritis caused by uric-acid crystals.

Injuries are another cause of toe pain. A sprained or broken toe can become painful, swollen, or bruised and can hurt while walking. Tingling, numbness, or color changes in the toes during cold weather or stress can be linked to circulation problems. Severe pain, loss of sensation, or a toe pointing at an unusual angle can indicate a serious injury. Difficulty moving the toes or being unable to walk can also signal damage. A snapping, grinding, or popping sound at the time of an injury is another warning sign.

A podiatrist can evaluate toe pain and identify the condition responsible for the symptoms. The examination can focus on the location of pain, visible changes, and how the toe moves. X-rays can help detect a fracture when an injury is suspected. Treatment depends on the diagnosis and can address problems like bunions, ingrown toenails, or gout-related toe pain. A podiatrist can evaluate recurring pain or symptoms that interfere with normal activities. Patients with diabetes should take foot pain seriously because foot problems can become more serious. Prompt evaluation can help prevent an injury or condition from becoming harder to manage. If you have toe pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Jeffrey Radack, DPM of Texas Regional Foot & Ankle Clinics. 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 contact our office located in McKinney and Coppell, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Diabetes can place the feet and lower legs at risk when nerve damage reduces feeling and poor circulation slows healing. A small cut, blister, or pressure spot can become a deep sore without causing much pain. Infection can then spread into tissue or bone, raising the risk of limb loss. Other warning signs include redness, swelling, and drainage. A change in foot shape or skin color also deserves prompt attention. Patients should not wait for pain before seeking care because reduced sensation can hide a serious problem.

Regular visits to a podiatrist are an important part of preventing these complications. A podiatrist can check blood flow, skin condition, and the ability to feel touch or temperature. The exam also identifies corns, calluses, and nail problems before they cause wounds. When a sore is present, the podiatrist can measure its depth and check for infection. Imaging can reveal bone damage or a hidden fracture. Treatment includes professional wound care, removal of damaged tissue, and pressure relief. Custom orthotics or special shoes can protect vulnerable areas. For severe problems, a podiatrist can coordinate advanced wound treatment or surgery with other medical specialists.

Early attention offers the best chance to protect the foot and lower leg. Regular examinations allow a podiatrist to monitor changes and adjust treatment before an injury becomes harder to heal. Patients should report new sores, warmth, or unusual odors promptly. They should also seek care for cracked skin, changes in nail color, or shoes that suddenly feel tight. A podiatrist can safely trim problem nails and treat thick calluses. Education about proper shoes and routine foot checks helps patients recognize concerns early. Working closely with a podiatrist can reduce infection, preserve mobility, and lower the risk of losing a limb. If you have foot complications from diabetes, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition. 

Limb salvage can be an effective way in preventing the need for limb amputation. If you have diabetes, cancer, or any other condition that could lead to foot amputation if left unchecked, consult with Jeffrey Radack, DPM from Texas Regional Foot & Ankle Clinics. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Limb Salvage?

Limb salvage is the attempt of saving a limb, such as the foot from amputation. Podiatrists also try to make sure that there is enough function in the foot after the salvage that it is still usable. Diabetes is the number one cause of non-traumatic amputations in the United States. Those with diabetes experience poor blood circulation, which prevents proper healing of an ulcer. If the ulcer is left uncheck, it could become infected, which could result in the need for amputation.

However, there are other causes as well, such as cancer and traumatic injury. Links between higher mortality rates and amputation have been found. This translates into higher healthcare costs, and a reduced quality of life and mobility for amputees. Podiatrists have attempted to increase the prevalence of limb salvage in an attempt to solve these issues.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Limb salvage teams have grown in recent years that utilize a number of different treatments to save the infected limb. This includes podiatrists that specialize in wound care, rehabilitation, orthotics, and surgery. Through a combination of these methods, limb salvage has been found to be an effective treatment for infected limbs, and as an alternative to amputation. Podiatrists will first evaluate the potential for limb salvage and determine if the limb can be saved or must be amputated. 

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

A cut on the bottom can occur from stepping on sharp objects, walking barefoot, or experiencing friction from rough surfaces. This type of foot wound can range from a minor superficial cut to a deeper laceration that requires medical attention from a podiatrist. The sole of the foot is especially vulnerable because it bears weight and is exposed to bacteria from the ground. Proper care is essential to reduce the risk of infection and to support healthy healing.

Symptoms of a cut on the bottom of the foot include pain, tenderness, and visible damage to the skin. There may be bleeding, swelling, or redness surrounding the wound. In some cases, individuals notice difficulty walking due to discomfort or sensitivity when pressure is applied. If the area becomes warm, produces discharge, or shows increased redness, these may be signs of infection. Monitoring symptoms closely helps determine whether simple care is sufficient or if professional treatment is needed.

Treating a cut on the bottom of the foot begins with clean hands to prevent introducing bacteria into the wound. Gently wash the affected area with clean water to remove dirt and debris. Avoid using harsh chemicals that may irritate the tissue. After cleaning, apply a sterile bandage to protect the wound and keep it covered. More severe and painful cuts or wounds require podiatric care to ensure proper healing. Changing the bandage regularly and keeping the area dry can support the healing process. Reducing pressure on the foot by limiting activity may also help prevent the wound from reopening.

Risk factors for complications include deep cuts, delayed treatment, and underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or poor circulation. Walking barefoot in unsanitary environments can increase exposure to bacteria. If you have a cut on the bottom of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions.

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 Jeffrey Radack, DPM from Texas Regional Foot & Ankle Clinics. 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 McKinney and Coppell, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Cuboid syndrome is a foot condition that affects the cuboid bone, which is located on the outer side of the midfoot. This small bone plays an important role in maintaining foot stability and supporting normal walking mechanics. Cuboid syndrome occurs when the bone becomes partially displaced or misaligned, often due to excessive strain or sudden injury. This disruption can interfere with normal joint movement and lead to discomfort in the lateral midfoot. The condition is often seen in athletes and individuals who engage in repetitive weight-bearing activities.

The symptoms of cuboid syndrome typically include pain along the outer midfoot, especially during walking or standing. Patients may also notice swelling, tenderness, and a feeling of weakness in the foot. In some cases, the pain may worsen with push-off movements or side-to-side motion. Difficulty walking is a common concern, as the discomfort can limit mobility and affect balance. These symptoms can resemble other foot injuries, which makes accurate identification important for proper care.

Several causes and risk factors contribute to the development of cuboid syndrome. A common cause is an ankle sprain that places stress on the surrounding structures, leading to cuboid misalignment. Repetitive strain from running, jumping, or prolonged standing can also increase the risk. Wearing poor footwear that lacks proper support may contribute to uneven pressure on the foot. Individuals with high arches or abnormal foot mechanics may be more prone to this condition due to altered weight distribution.

Managing cuboid syndrome involves addressing both the symptoms and the underlying cause. Rest, wearing supportive footwear, and targeted therapies can help reduce pain and improve foot function. Early recognition and appropriate care are essential to prevent ongoing discomfort and mobility issues. Taking steps to protect the midfoot can support long-term foot health. If you have pain in this area of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat cuboid syndrome.  

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with Jeffrey Radack, DPM from Texas Regional Foot & Ankle Clinics. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

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