August 2024

Golf, though less intense than other sports, can still lead to foot and ankle injuries due to repetitive motions and uneven terrain. Common foot issues among golfers include ankle sprains from uneven surfaces or sudden movements during swings. Plantar fasciitis may develop from prolonged standing and walking, causing heel pain. Stress fractures can occur from overuse and excessive impact on the feet. To prevent these injuries, golfers should wear supportive, well-fitted golf shoes that offer good traction and cushioning. Proper warm-up and stretching exercises, focusing on the feet and ankles, can help prepare the body for the game. Additionally, paying attention to the course's condition and avoiding rough or uneven areas can minimize injury risk. Regular foot strengthening and flexibility exercises can also enhance resilience and prevent common golf-related foot and ankle problems. If you have endured a foot or ankle injury while playing golf, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions and educate you on proper injury prevention techniques while playing golf.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Kellvan Cheng, DPM of Elite Foot & Ankle. 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 Carrollton, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Diabetes can significantly impact foot health due to reduced blood circulation and nerve damage, which is known as neuropathy. Poor circulation hampers the delivery of oxygen and nutrients, slowing wound healing and increasing infection risk. Neuropathy diminishes sensation, making it difficult to detect injuries or pressure points, leading to untreated wounds. Proper foot care is essential for individuals with diabetes. Daily inspections for cuts, blisters, or swelling, keeping feet clean and moisturized, and wearing properly fitting shoes are key steps. If you have diabetes, it is suggested that you schedule regular visits to a podiatrist who can monitor foot health, treat issues early, and provide guidance on preventive 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 Kellvan Cheng, DPM from Elite Foot & Ankle. 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 Carrollton, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A matrixectomy is a surgical procedure that treats severe toenail issues by removing part or all of the nail matrix, the tissue responsible for nail growth. This type of foot surgery is often recommended for persistent toenail conditions like ingrown toenails or fungal infections that do not respond to conservative treatment. A complete matrixectomy involves the removal of the entire nail matrix, which prevents any future nail growth and can be necessary for severe or recurrent conditions. In contrast, a partial matrixectomy removes only a portion of the nail matrix, preserving some nail growth while addressing localized problems. Both approaches aim to alleviate pain and prevent further complications, with the choice between them depending on the specific condition and its severity. If your toenail is causing chronic discomfort and pain, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can determine if this type of foot surgery is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Kellvan Cheng, DPM of Elite Foot & Ankle. 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 Carrollton, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Flat feet occur when the arch of the foot collapses, causing the entire foot to make contact with the ground. This condition can arise from genetics, trauma, or underlying health issues like diabetes. While many people with flat feet manage symptoms through nonsurgical treatments, surgery may become necessary when these interventions fail to provide relief. Complications from flatfoot can include changing the way you walk, plantar fasciitis, and Achilles tendonitis, which can significantly impact daily activities. Custom orthotics, bracing, stretching exercises, and certain medications can help to alleviate pain and improve foot function. But when these measures are insufficient, a podiatrist may recommend surgical reconstruction to restore the foot's arch and alleviate discomfort. Surgery typically involves repairing or reconstructing tendons and ligaments, realigning bones, or fusing joints to create a stable arch. Because recovery from flatfoot surgery can take up to three months, carefully following post-operative care instructions is paramount to a successful outcome. If you have severe pain from flat feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can determne if surgery is right for you.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Kellvan Cheng, DPM from Elite Foot & Ankle. 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 Carrollton, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.