Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, or CRPS, is a chronic pain condition that can severely impact the feet, causing intense discomfort, swelling, and skin changes. CRPS often develops after an injury, surgery, or trauma, even if minor, when the nervous system overreacts, leading to persistent pain far beyond the original injury site. In the feet, CRPS may cause burning pain, heightened sensitivity to touch, temperature fluctuations, and skin color changes. The affected foot can become swollen and stiff, making movement difficult and sometimes causing muscle weakness. CRPS is most common in adults, but anyone with an injury may be at risk. Early diagnosis is important to manage symptoms effectively, often involving medications, targeted exercises, and nerve treatments. If you suffer from CRPS, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help improve function and prevent the condition from worsening.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. 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.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

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

Heel pain is common among active children, especially those who engage in sports that involve running and jumping. One frequent cause of heel pain in young athletes is termed Sever’s disease, a condition that typically affects children between 8 and 14 years old. This condition arises when the growth area where the Achilles tendon connects to the heel bone becomes inflamed due to the rapid growth of bones and soft tissues during puberty. Signs of Sever’s disease include pain in one or both heels, especially during or after physical activity, limping, and a tendency to walk on tiptoe. Various factors, such as flat foot posture, increased weight, and changes in footwear, may contribute to the pain. A podiatrist can assess and help manage symptoms by recommending specific footwear, using orthotics if necessary, and educating on activity modification. This approach helps children stay active while minimizing heel pain. If your active child complains of heel pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Jeffrey Radack, DPM from Texas Regional Foot & Ankle Clinics. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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 injuries.

A sprained ankle usually happens when the ankle rolls inward, leading to stretching or tearing of the ligaments on the outside of the foot. This injury can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight, although some people may still manage limited movement. Ankle sprains vary in severity, with mild cases involving minor ligament stretching, and severe cases leading to extensive tears, or ruptures, in the ankle's supporting ligaments. The risk of ankle sprains is higher in those individuals with previous sprains, high arches, or who participate in high-impact sports. Once the initial swelling subsides, certain exercises may be recommended to restore strength, balance, and range of motion, in an effort to prevent future injuries. A podiatrist can assess the severity of the injury, provide guidance on treatment options, and discuss options like bracing in severe cases. If you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a full exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, 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.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

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.

A metatarsal stress fracture is a small crack in one of the five long bones in the foot, typically caused by repetitive pressure or overuse. Commonly seen in athletes, especially runners and dancers, these fractures can arise from sudden increases in activity, wearing improper footwear, or inadequate conditioning. Symptoms often include localized pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest, swelling, and tenderness in the midfoot area. Individuals may also experience difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected foot. Recognizing these signs early is essential for effective treatment and recovery. If left untreated, a stress fracture can lead to more severe injuries and prolonged downtime. If you have developed a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, 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.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

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.

Foot wounds in diabetics often take longer to heal due to several interconnected factors. Elevated blood sugar levels can impair circulation, reducing blood flow to the extremities and hindering the delivery of essential nutrients and oxygen required for healing. Additionally, diabetes can damage nerves, leading to reduced sensation in the feet, which may cause injuries to go unnoticed and untreated. Furthermore, weakened immune responses in diabetic patients can increase the risk of infections, complicating the healing process. The combination of these factors creates a challenging environment for wound recovery, making it essential for diabetics to monitor their foot health closely. Regular check-ups from a podiatrist and proactive care can significantly reduce the risk of complications. If you have diabetes and have developed a foot wound, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of this type of doctor who can help you to manage this condition.

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 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.