Gangrene is a serious condition that occurs when tissue dies due to a lack of blood flow or an infection. People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing gangrene, particularly in the feet, toes, and ankles, as a result of poor circulation and a reduced ability to heal wounds. High blood sugar can damage nerves, leading to loss of sensation, which makes it difficult to detect injuries. Small cuts, blisters, or ulcers may go unnoticed, increasing the chance of infection. If an infection worsens, tissue death can occur, and surgery may be required to remove the affected area. Signs of gangrene include skin discoloration, swelling, foul-smelling discharge, and numbness. If left untreated, the infection can spread and lead to severe complications. A podiatrist can help by identifying foot problems early, treating wounds before they worsen, and recommending strategies to improve circulation. Regular foot exams are essential for preventing complications like gangrene. If you have diabetes and suffer from foot ulcers, it is suggested that you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist for checkups and appropriate care.

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 one of our podiatrists from Graff Foot, Ankle and Wound Care. Our doctors 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 offices located in Plano, Dallas, Prosper, Allen, Irving, Garland, Frisco, and Coppell, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Clubfoot repair surgery is performed to improve the position and function of a foot and ankle affected by this birth condition. A podiatrist can determine if surgery is needed based on the severity of the deformity and prior treatment. During the clubfoot repair surgery, adjustments are made to the tendons to help the foot move into a more natural position. This may include lengthening the Achilles tendon. In some cases, small bone corrections may be required to support proper alignment. After surgery, a cast is placed on the baby’s foot to protect it and assist with healing. The cast is typically worn for several weeks and may need to be changed a few times. As the foot heals, follow-up care helps ensure the best possible outcome. While some stiffness may remain, surgery can greatly improve mobility and allow for an active lifestyle. If your child was born with clubfoot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Graff Foot, Ankle and Wound Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Plano, Dallas, Prosper, Allen, Irving, Garland, Frisco, and Coppell, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Sudden ankle pain without an obvious injury can stem from various conditions, including arthritis, autoimmune diseases, and structural issues in the foot. Osteoarthritis develops over time from joint wear, while rheumatoid arthritis and lupus can cause inflammation in both ankles. Reactive arthritis, often triggered by an infection, leads to joint pain and swelling. Gout, caused by excess uric acid, can bring sudden, severe pain to the ankle joints. Flat feet or posterior tibial tendon dysfunction can strain the ankle, causing discomfort and instability. Additionally, bursitis, an inflammation of fluid-filled sacs near the joint, can cause swelling and tenderness. A podiatrist can identify the root cause of your ankle pain through a thorough examination and diagnostic tests. They can recommend supportive footwear, provide custom orthotics, and suggest targeted exercises or medication to relieve pain and improve mobility. In some cases, surgery may be advised. If you are experiencing sudden ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Graff Foot, Ankle and Wound Care. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Plano, Dallas, Prosper, Allen, Irving, Garland, Frisco, and Coppell, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A foot puncture wound occurs when a sharp object penetrates the skin, creating a small but potentially deep injury. Common causes include stepping on nails, glass, splinters, or other sharp debris. Outdoor environments, construction sites, and walking barefoot increase the risk of these injuries. Although the wound may appear minor, prompt care is essential to prevent infection and complications. Bacteria can enter the deeper tissues, leading to serious infections, such as cellulitis or abscess formation. Delayed treatment can also increase the risk of foreign objects remaining in the wound, causing prolonged pain and inflammation. If you have sustained a puncture wound on the foot, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can provide appropriate treatment solutions.

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 one of our podiatrists from Graff Foot, Ankle and Wound Care. Our doctors 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 offices located in Plano, Dallas, Prosper, Allen, Irving, Garland, Frisco, and Coppell, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle pain from running is often caused by overuse, wearing improper footwear, weak stabilizing muscles, or biomechanical issues. The repetitive impact of running places stress on the ankle joints, tendons, and ligaments, leading to inflammation or strain. Uneven surfaces and improper running form can also contribute to discomfort. Wearing supportive shoes with proper cushioning and ensuring a good fit can reduce stress on the ankles. Strengthening exercises for the lower leg and foot muscles help improve stability and reduce the risk of an ankle injury. Stretching before and after a run promotes flexibility and prevents stiffness. Gradually increasing intensity rather than making sudden changes in distance or speed allows the body to adapt. Rest can alleviate minor soreness, while persistent pain may require medical attention. If you have endured an ankle injury from running, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment and running injury prevention solutions.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists of Graff Foot, Ankle and Wound Care. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Plano, Dallas, Prosper, Allen, Irving, Garland, Frisco, and Coppell, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Pain in the ball of the foot, known as metatarsalgia, occurs when excessive pressure or structural changes affect the metatarsal bones. These five long bones located just behind the toes help support the body's weight and movement. Factors such as high-impact activities, wearing tight or high-heeled shoes, stress fractures, arthritis, and foot deformities can cause pain in the ball of the foot. Symptoms include a sharp or aching pain that worsens with standing or walking, a sensation of walking on pebbles, numbness, or tingling in the toes. A podiatrist can evaluate your foot through a physical exam and imaging tests to determine the source of the pain. Treatment may involve taking pressure off of the metatarsal area, prescribing custom orthotics, suggesting footwear modifications,  or immobilizing the foot in the case of fractures. If conservative treatments do not relieve symptoms, surgery may be needed to address bone misalignment, nerve irritation, or joint damage. If you have pain in the ball of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Graff Foot, Ankle and Wound Care. Our doctors 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 offices located in Plano, Dallas, Prosper, Allen, Irving, Garland, Frisco, and Coppell, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel pain after running is a common complaint among runners and can stem from various foot conditions. Plantar fasciitis, one of the leading causes of heel pain after running, occurs when the thick tissue on the bottom of the foot becomes strained from repetitive impact. Other potential sources of heel pain are Achilles tendinitis, stress fractures, or heel spurs, which may develop due to excessive strain on the heel. Running on hard surfaces, wearing improper footwear, or sudden increases in training intensity can contribute to the problem. Symptoms include sharp pain in the heel, stiffness in the ankle, and tenderness along the arch or Achilles tendon. If left untreated, the heel pain can worsen, making daily activities like standing and walking more difficult. A podiatrist can evaluate the underlying cause of heel pain, recommend treatment to relieve discomfort, and offer guidance on proper footwear and running techniques to reduce strain on the feet. If you experience heel pain after running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Graff Foot, Ankle and Wound Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Plano, Dallas, Prosper, Allen, Irving, Garland, Frisco, and Coppell, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Choosing the right running shoe is vital for comfort and performance. There are four main types of running shoes, each designed to address different needs. Motion control shoes are ideal for runners who overpronate, offering extra support to prevent excessive inward rolling of the foot. Stability shoes provide moderate support and cushioning, making them suitable for runners who need a balance between comfort and stability. Neutral shoes are designed for runners with a neutral stride, providing cushioning without added support, perfect for those with a natural gait. Lastly, minimalist shoes aim to mimic barefoot running by offering minimal cushioning and support, encouraging a more natural foot movement. Understanding your running style and foot mechanics is key to selecting the right shoe, as it can help improve performance and prevent injuries during your runs. If you have sustained a foot or ankle injury while running, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on what type of running shoe to purchase.

You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Graff Foot, Ankle and Wound Care. Our doctors 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 our offices located in Plano, Dallas, Prosper, Allen, Irving, Garland, Frisco, and Coppell, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that typically affects the skin between the toes but also can spread to the soles or sides of the feet. Athlete’s foot often causes itching, redness, flaking, or cracking of the skin, and the symptoms may vary depending on skin tone. In some cases, the infection can lead to painful blisters or spread to the toenails, causing further complications. Athlete's foot is often contracted in warm, damp environments like communal showers or locker rooms. People with damp or damaged skin are particularly vulnerable to this condition. A podiatrist can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend prescription antifungal medications to address the infection and prevent it from recurring. Seeking professional care is especially important if the infection spreads or becomes severe, as untreated cases can lead to more serious issues. If you believe you have symptoms of an athlete's foot infection, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

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 one of our podiatrists from Graff Foot, Ankle and Wound Care. Our doctors 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 offices located in Plano, Dallas, Prosper, Allen, Irving, Garland, Frisco, and Coppell, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.