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Falls prevention begins with simple habits that help strengthen the body and create safer movement. Staying aware of your surroundings, keeping pathways clear, and choosing supportive footwear can greatly reduce your chances of slipping. Tai chi is a gentle form of exercise that promotes better balance, coordination, and stability through slow and controlled movements. It helps improve muscle strength and body awareness, both of which are important for preventing falls. A podiatrist can identify foot or ankle issues that may affect balance, recommend proper footwear, and create a personalized plan to support safer mobility. If you have injured your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot and ankle injuries, and guide you on additional falls prevention techniques.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Dr. Thomas Madden from Advanced Foot Care Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

People living with diabetes must give special attention to their feet to prevent serious complications. High blood sugar can reduce circulation and nerve sensitivity, increasing the risk of infection, ulcers, and slow-healing wounds. Daily inspection is key. Look for redness, blisters, or any change in skin color or temperature. Keep feet clean and moisturized, but avoid applying lotion between the toes where excess moisture can cause irritation. Wearing properly fitted shoes and seamless socks help protect sensitive skin from friction and pressure. Regular visits to a podiatrist allow early detection of minor problems before they become major concerns. Simple habits such as trimming toenails carefully, managing blood sugar, and avoiding walking barefoot can make a significant difference. Consistent diabetic foot care is necessary for comfort, mobility, and overall health. For personalized guidance, it is suggested that you schedule a diabetic foot examination with a podiatrist, who can help you to manage this serious condition.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Thomas Madden from Advanced Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Babies can develop ingrown toenails when the corner of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, often affecting the big toe. Because infant nails are soft and flexible, they may sometimes appear ingrown when they are only curving at the edges. Signs of a true ingrown toenail include redness, swelling, tenderness, and, in some cases, drainage of fluid near the nail. Causes of ingrown toenails include nails being trimmed too short, rounded edges that grow into the skin, or pressure from tight shoes once the baby begins walking. If ignored, an ingrown toenail may lead to infection, making the toe more painful and swollen. A podiatrist can determine if the nail is truly ingrown and provide treatment to ease discomfort, prevent infection, and guide parents on proper nail care as their child grows. If your child develops an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment solutions.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Thomas Madden of Advanced Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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

The medical condition Pes Planus, or more commonly known as flat feet, is often noticeable while standing with your feet flat on the floor and no visible arch is present. Oftentimes babies are born with flat feet and the arch develops with age. There is a small percentage of adults who never develop an arch which is said to be caused by extended stress or a traumatic injury. Flat feet can also result from an abnormal foot structure, genetic factors, obesity, or an injury to the foot. The function of the arch is to help balance weight across the body, in addition to determining a walking style. If no pain coincides with flat feet immediate care is not needed, although shoe inserts or custom orthotics may be recommended to prevent future injuries. One common symptom of flat feet is foot pain, which can develop from strained ligaments and muscles. If you have flat feet it is strongly suggested to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose this condition and provide various treatment methods that are best for you.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Thomas Madden from Advanced Foot Care Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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