Minimally invasive foot surgery is a revolutionary medical technique that offers a gentler alternative to traditional open surgeries for various foot conditions. This advanced approach involves making small incisions, typically less than one inch in length, through which specialized instruments and a tiny camera are used to perform the surgical procedure. Unlike traditional surgeries that require larger incisions, minimally invasive foot surgery results in less tissue damage, reduced scarring, and a quicker recovery period. One of the primary advantages of this approach is its ability to target specific foot problems such as bunions, hammertoes, neuromas, and heel pain with greater precision. Patients can often return to their regular activities sooner and experience less postoperative pain. Additionally, the risk of complications and infection is reduced, making minimally invasive foot surgery an attractive option for those seeking effective solutions for their foot conditions. If you are considering this type of surgery, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if this treatment approach is suitable for your unique foot condition.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Dr. Thomas Madden of Advanced Foot Care Center. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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.

Ankle injuries, particularly sprains, can be debilitating, causing pain and making it difficult to move. After a sprain, some patients may notice a cracking or popping sensation. Ankle cracking often affects those who have experienced multiple ankle sprains because repeated injuries can lead to instability in the joint. Over time, the ligaments that support the ankle become worn down, stretched, and weakened. As a result, they can no longer hold the bones securely in place. When the bones move back into their natural positions, a cracking or popping sound results. Attempting to self-diagnose or treat the issue can lead to further and far more serious complications. Tests such as X-rays can offer a more detailed view of the condition, and the treatment for ankle cracking will depend on the severity of the injury. In many cases, nonsurgical approaches can effectively manage the condition. In extreme cases, surgery may be a necessity. If you experience ankle cracking after a sprain, it's suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a full exam, diagnosis, and treatment plan.

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

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

The Achilles tendon, the body's largest tendon, plays a pivotal role in walking, running, and jumping. When it becomes inflamed or irritated, the condition known as Achilles tendonitis arises. This ailment involves inflammation in two forms, noninsertional and insertional. Noninsertional Achilles tendonitis affects the middle area of the tendon and is more common among athletes and younger individuals. Insertional Achilles tendonitis targets the lower heel area and affects patients of all activity levels. Common factors that contribute to Achilles tendonitis include overuse due to sudden exercise intensity changes and inadequate footwear. Tight calf muscles and diminished ankle flexibility may also strain the tendon. Aging renders tendons less flexible, making middle-aged athletes more prone to Achilles tendonitis. Poor running form and other conditions, like bone spurs or inefficient foot anatomy, can make it worse. Symptoms of Achilles tendonitis include gradual heel pain that worsens over time. Stiffness, tenderness upon waking, and mild swelling around the heel are other symptoms. For help dealing with Achilles tendonitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and the appropriate treatment option.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. 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 Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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.

The structure of the foot comprises a fascinating network of bones and joints that enable us to walk, run, and stand. The foot has three major sections: the forefoot, midfoot, and hindfoot. The forefoot contains metatarsal bones forming the ball of the foot, while the midfoot houses various tarsal bones. The tarsal bones are responsible for maintaining arches and facilitating flexibility. The hindfoot houses the heel bone, or calcaneus, and is crucial for absorbing shock during movement. Other joints in the foot, like the ankle joint and the subtalar joint, allow for complex motions that include dorsiflexion and plantarflexion. Understanding this skeletal framework is essential for appreciating the importance of proper foot care and maintaining overall mobility and comfort. If you would like more information about the biomechanics of the feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can provide you with the knowledge you are seeking.

If you have any 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.

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

Finding shoes that fit properly is important for foot health and overall comfort. Different shoe brands vary in fit, due to factors like material and construction. Incorrect sizing and improper shoe fittings can result in foot problems. Regular refitting is essential because feet change over time due to factors like aging, foot deformities, or pregnancy. In some cases ligaments lose elasticity, arches fall, and foot size changes. When fitting a shoe, measurements using a Brannock device determine length and width, but it is also important to consider your weight, the purpose of the shoe, and the materials from which it is made. Foot width ranges from AAA to 6E, and choosing the right width matters in order to prevent issues like neuromas, corns, or painful skin folding. Wearing improperly fitted shoes can exacerbate problems like pronation or supination. Experts suggest avoiding shoes that allow the toes to touch the front, which can lead to toe pain, bunions, or hammertoes. If you have problem feet and need guidance in finding the right shoes, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for more information.

It is important to find shoes that fit you properly in order to avoid a variety of different foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Thomas Madden from Advanced Foot Care Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

Shoes have many different functions. They cushion our body weight, protect our feet, and allow us to safely play sports. You should always make sure that the shoes you wear fit you properly in order to avoid injuries and deformities such as: bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and more. It is important to note that although a certain pair of shoes might be a great fit for someone else, that doesn’t mean they will be a great fit for you. This is why you should always try on shoes before buying them to make sure they are worth the investment. Typically, shoes need to be replaced ever six months to one year of regular use.

Tips for Proper Shoe Fitting

• Select a shoe that is shaped like your foot
• Don’t buy shoes that fit too tight, expecting them to stretch to fit
• Make sure there is enough space (3/8” to ½”) for your longest toe at the end of each shoe when you are standing up
• Walk in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right
• Don’t select shoes by the size marked inside the shoe, but by how the shoe fits your foot

The shoes you buy should always feel as good as they look. Shoes that fit properly will last longer, feel better, and improve your way of life each day.

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.