The toes are connected to the long bones of the foot with metatarsophalangeal, or MTP,  joints. These joints are essential for balance and forward motion while walking. Pain in this area, most often in the big toe, develops when the joint is exposed to excess stress, poor alignment, or conditions that cause inflammation. Common causes include bunions, turf toe, and certain forms of arthritis like gout, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis. MTP joint problems can lead to swelling, stiffness, and tenderness that make it difficult to walk or stand comfortably. Risk factors include chronic inflammatory disease and foot or leg misalignment. Wearing shoes that lack adequate support or place pressure on the toes, such as high heels or narrow footwear, are other factors. A podiatrist can assess the underlying cause and provide effective treatment to reduce pain and improve alignment. If you have ongoing pain in an MTP joint, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

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.

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel discomfort, often producing sharp pain with the first steps in the morning or after long periods of rest. The condition develops when the plantar fascia, which is the strong band of tissue along the bottom of the foot, becomes irritated or inflamed. Contributing factors include flat feet, high arches, unsupportive shoes, excess weight, or repetitive strain from running and standing. Over time, the tissue tightens and microtears may form, leading to ongoing soreness. Stretching the calves and plantar fascia and using supportive footwear can ease symptoms. Night splints and orthotic inserts may also provide relief. While many cases improve with conservative care, untreated plantar fasciitis can become chronic and interfere with daily activity. If heel pain persists, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, 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.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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.

Sever's disease is a common cause of heel pain in growing children, especially those who are active in sports. It occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress or tension from the Achilles tendon. Symptoms include heel pain during or after physical activity, limping, swelling, tenderness at the back of the heel, and stiffness in the foot upon waking. The heel may appear slightly red or swollen and often feels sore when squeezed. Sever's disease usually affects children between the ages of 8 and 14 during growth spurts. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition through a physical examination and a review of activity levels and symptoms. Imaging is rarely needed but may be used to rule out other issues. Treatment options include stretching exercises, heel lifts, supportive footwear, and temporary activity modification. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to manage symptoms and promote proper healing.

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 care needs.

A corn on the foot can develop from excess pressure. This is often the result of wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. The types of corns that can form are referred to as hard and soft corns. The latter gradually develops between the toes and can cause severe pain and discomfort. The top of the corn is often moist, and toes that are crammed together for the majority of the day may cause this to occur. Hard corns can develop on top of the toes, or on the bottom of the feet. Patients who run barefoot may be susceptible to developing a hard corn. Additionally, they can form on top of the toes from wearing shoes that can cause excess friction as walking and running are pursued. If you have a corn on your foot, please consult with a podiatrist who can effectively treat any type of corn.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Jeffrey Radack, DPM of Texas Regional Foot & Ankle Clinics. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

• Well-fitting socks
• Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
• Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctor to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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.

Trail running shoes are designed to provide support and protection on uneven and rugged terrain, and selecting the right pair is essential for foot health. Key qualities include appropriate stack height for cushioning, lug length, or how tall or deep the rubber protrusions are on the sole or traction, and proper shoe width to accommodate foot shape. Wearing trail shoes that do not fit correctly or provide adequate support can lead to blisters, plantar fasciitis, ankle sprains, or other injuries. A podiatrist can help evaluate your foot structure, recommend suitable trail running shoes, and provide guidance on orthotics or preventive strategies to reduce risk of injury. If you have foot pain from wearing the wrong type of running shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions and guide you on proper footwear choices for your running style.

You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, 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.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.

Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe

• Make sure you have a thumb’s width of wiggle room between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
• There should be little to no slipping at the heel
• Don’t assume your size in one shoe brand will be your size in another
• Do not lace up your shoes too tightly
• Walk around in the store with your new shoes before you buy them

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.

During pregnancy, many women experience noticeable changes in their feet due to natural physical and hormonal adjustments. Feet may increase in size as ligaments loosen, arches may flatten, and additional weight can increase pressure on joints, often reducing overall foot stability. These changes can lead to discomfort or difficulty with mobility. Choosing the right footwear is essential for support and comfort. Shoes with a wide toe box, proper arch support, cushioned heels, adjustable fit, and breathable materials can help reduce pain and improve balance. A podiatrist can provide personalized guidance, treatments, and support throughout pregnancy. If you have developed foot pain during your pregnancy, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on additional relief tactics.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Jeffrey Radack, DPM from Texas Regional Foot & Ankle Clinics. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the 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 care needs.

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet, often developing between the toes. It thrives in warm and moist environments, making locker rooms, around pools, and tight footwear common sources of exposure. Symptoms include itching, burning, redness, peeling skin, and sometimes blisters or cracked areas that can become painful. Risk factors include excessive sweating, walking barefoot in public places, or wearing shoes that do not allow the feet to breathe. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition, provide effective anti-fungal treatments, and recommend prevention strategies to keep feet healthy. If you are experiencing signs of athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Jeffrey Radack, DPM from Texas Regional Foot & Ankle Clinics. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition characterized by inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel to the toes. It often develops from training on improper surfaces, suddenly increasing athletic activity, or failing to properly warm up before exercise. Symptoms typically include sharp heel pain, stiffness in the arch, and discomfort that is usually worse in the morning or after periods of rest. A podiatrist can evaluate the condition, recommend stretching exercises, provide custom orthotics, and suggest footwear modifications to relieve pain and prevent recurrence. If you are experiencing persistent heel or arch pain, it is suggested that you promptly visit a podiatrist who can effectively treat plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, 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.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best 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.