Charcot foot is a serious condition that can affect people with diabetes, most often those who have lost feeling in their feet. It develops when the bones become weak and begin to break under normal pressure, sometimes without much pain. The foot may appear swollen, warm, or slightly misshapen as the condition progresses. Although this problem is not frequently seen, it is important because delayed care can lead to lasting deformity and trouble walking. It is sometimes mistaken for a minor injury, which can slow proper treatment. Early detection makes a big difference in protecting the structure of the foot. A podiatrist can recognize early changes, use imaging to confirm the issue, and guide treatment to prevent further damage. If you have diabetes and notice swelling, warmth, or shape changes in your foot, it is suggested that you seek care from a podiatrist.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Podiatry Associates of Victoria. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

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

Falls prevention is essential for seniors to maintain safety, independence, and quality of life at home. Falls can lead to serious conditions, such as fractures, head injuries, and foot and ankle harm, that often require long recovery periods. These incidents may also result in loss of independence and the development of a fear of falling, which can limit daily activity. Risk factors include poor balance, weakened muscles, and unsafe home environments. Simple changes like improved lighting can reduce hazards, while falls detection wearables provide immediate alerts for faster assistance. Video monitoring systems can also help address nighttime wandering and improve safety. A podiatrist can help by evaluating foot health, improving stability, and recommending proper footwear. If you or a loved one have injured their foot or ankle from falling, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide a diagnosis and guide you on additional falls prevention tips.

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 one of our podiatrists from Podiatry Associates of Victoria. Our doctors 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 Victoria, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Swollen feet and ankles can develop from several underlying causes. Cardiovascular conditions may affect circulation and lead to fluid buildup, while hormonal changes can increase fluid retention in the body. Certain medications and infections may also trigger swelling and discomfort. Symptoms include puffiness, tight skin, and reduced mobility. Risk factors include prolonged standing, limited movement, excess weight, and aging. Edema may signal a deeper issue that requires attention. A podiatrist can evaluate the cause, recommend treatment, and improve comfort. If you have swollen feet or ankles, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine the reason why and offer effective treatment solutions.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Podiatry Associates of Victoria. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Victoria, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.