Rucking is an activity that involves walking or hiking while carrying a weighted backpack, often over long distances and challenging terrain. Originally a military training exercise, it has become a popular fitness activity that combines cardio and strength training. The repetitive stress from carrying heavy loads over varying terrain can lead to a variety of issues, including blisters, calluses, or foot pain. Selecting appropriate footwear is vital for reducing these risks. Look for durable, supportive shoes with good arch support, cushioning, and traction suitable for the terrain and weather. Properly fitted shoes that allow toe movement and accommodate your foot shape are essential. Additionally, keeping feet clean and dry during rucking is key to avoiding blisters and fungal infections. If discomfort persists, a podiatrist can assess your feet and recommend custom orthotics for added support. If you experience unusual or chronic foot pain after rucking, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, 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.

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 Killeen, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

An ankle fracture affects more than just physical mobility. It can have psychological and social impacts too. Physically, an ankle fracture often requires immobilization, leading to muscle weakness, joint stiffness, and challenges with weight-bearing even after healing. Recovery may take months, with targeted exercises needed to regain strength. Psychologically, the prolonged healing process and limited independence may lead to frustration, anxiety, and even depression, especially for active individuals. Fear of re-injury can also affect confidence. Socially, disrupted routines and limited participation in work or hobbies may cause feelings of isolation. If you have sustained an ankle fracture, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist as quickly as possible. This foot and ankle expert can guide you, focusing on both physical and emotional support, to make recovery smoother and help you regain a balanced, active lifestyle post-injury.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, 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. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
•  Swelling around the area
•  Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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.

Pain in the ball of the foot, known as metatarsalgia, can result from various causes. Among them are stress fractures in the metatarsal bones, joint pain, and inflammation of the two sesamoid bones located under the big toe. Morton’s neuroma, a nerve-related issue, may also contribute to pain in the ball of the foot. It arises when nerves between the 3rd and 4th toes are compressed, often causing tingling and pain. Age-related thinning of the fat pad in this area can lead to less cushioning, increasing the likelihood of pain with walking or standing. Posture issues and biomechanical imbalances, which may result from poor gait mechanics, can put excessive pressure on the ball of the foot. Increased stress on the metatarsal area can encourage the development of secondary issues. A podiatrist can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan to alleviate pain, prevent further complications, and help restore comfort. If you are experiencing pain in the ball of the foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Thomas Madden from Advanced Foot Care Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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.

Pain in the big toe can affect your daily activities and foot function. Injuries like turf toe, a sprain often seen in athletes and dancers, can lead to joint pain and swelling when the big toe is forcefully bent upwards. Certain chronic conditions also play a role in causing big toe pain. Arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, can cause joint stiffness and discomfort due to cartilage breakdown, often worsened by repetitive movements or previous injuries. Gout, a metabolic condition where uric acid crystals accumulate in the joint, and causes intense pain and inflammation in the big toe, especially during flare-ups. Bunions, a structural deformity, push the big toe toward the other toes, causing visible bumps and pain, especially when wearing tight shoes. Sesamoiditis, involving small bones under the big toe joint, commonly affects people who engage in activities that put pressure on the forefoot. A podiatrist can diagnose these issues and recommend specific treatment, including orthotics to reduce strain and even surgery in severe cases. If big toe pain is interfering with your daily activities, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, 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.

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 Killeen, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Fungal nails, or onychomycosis, is a common condition where a fungus infects the toenails, leading to discoloration, thickening, and brittleness. The primary causes include exposure to warm, moist environments, such as public showers or swimming pools, and underlying conditions like diabetes or weakened immune systems. Symptoms often start with a yellow or white spot under the nail, progressing to discoloration and potential separation from the nail bed. In some cases, the affected nail may become painful or develop a foul odor. A podiatrist can effectively diagnose and treat fungal toenails through various methods. Treatments may include topical antifungal medications, oral medications, and advanced options like laser therapy, which targets the infection without harming surrounding tissue. Laser treatments are gaining popularity for their effectiveness and minimal side effects. If you have toenail fungus, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for personalized care and treatment options.

For more information about treatment, 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.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

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