There are various types of running shoes that are tailored to specific running needs. One of the most important things to look for in a running shoe is a perfect fit. This can be easier to do when the shoes are tried on at the end of the day, when the feet are at their largest. It is necessary to make sure there is adequate room between the toes and the top of the shoe, in addition to choosing the right width. There are three categories of running shoes, and it is beneficial to know what kind of running is most likely to be pursued. An everyday running shoe can handle the type of general running that many people do, and is considered to be the most durable. If faster workouts or running races are preferred, a lightweight shoe may be purchased, and it is made with less cushioning. People who like running on rocky trails or dirt may buy a trail running shoe, which has lugs on the sole that may provide better support than other running shoes. If you have questions about what type of running shoe is best for you, please confer with a podiatrist who can direct you toward choosing the best shoe for you.

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, 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.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

• Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
• Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
• Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

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 care needs.

The foot condition that is known as gout is a form of arthritis that affects millions of Americans. It is caused by excess uric acid in the blood, and can happen from genetic reasons, or from eating foods that have high levels of purines. These include shellfish, red meat, or drinks that are made with large amounts of sugar. The pain comes from crystals that lodge in the joints of the big toe, and can cause extreme difficulty in completing daily activities. In severe cases, many patients report they must crawl up the steps as a result of the debilitating pain, and often require immediate medical attention. Additional symptoms of gout can consist of redness and swelling surrounding the affected joints, and there may be large lumps under the skin that are referred to as tophi. These are typically painless, and may develop into chronic bouts of gout if left untreated. Gout is a painful foot condition, and it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist if you have the beginning signs of joint pain in the big toe. 

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Kellvan Cheng, DPM from Elite Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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 care needs.

People who develop heel spurs are aware of the pain and discomfort they may cause. It is defined as a bony growth on the back of the heel and between the arch, and is generally felt while walking and running. It is a calcium deposit, and wearing shoes that do not fit correctly may increase the risk of getting a heel spur. They may be one of three shapes, including pointed, shelf-like, and hooked, and may be up to a half inch long. The common symptoms that many patients experience can consist of a chronic ache in the heel of the foot, and there may be inflammation and swelling in the affected area. Additionally, it is often tender to the touch, and it may feel warm. A heel spur happens as a result of strained ligaments and muscles that gradually wear out the soft tissues in the heel. People who have experienced a heel injury, are overweight, or who frequently run and jump on hard surfaces, may be at a greater risk for developing a heel spur.  Mild relief can come from resting the affected foot as often possible, and wearing shoes that have adequate support and cushioning. If you have been afflicted by a heel spur, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can recommend correct treatment options, which may include surgery for permanent removal. 

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Kellvan Cheng, DPM from Elite Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

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 care needs.

A Morton’s neuroma refers to thickening of nerve tissue at the base of the 3rd or 4th toe. While the precise cause of this condition is unknown, it is thought to form from pressure, irritation, or injury of nerves leading to the toes. This condition can cause one to feel like there is a lump or knot near the ball of the foot, like they are walking on a pebble, or wearing socks that have become bunched up. There can be an achy, sharp, or burning pain in the ball of the foot, or tingling, numbness, or cramping in the forefoot or toes. A Morton’s neuroma can become swollen and painful. One can develop a Morton’s neuroma from wearing shoes that are too narrow where the toes are squeezed together or high-heeled shoes where the body weight is forced onto the ball of the foot. Non-invasive treatments for Morton’s neuroma include wearing properly fitted shoes, with heels less than two inches in height, wide toe boxes, and thick soles, using padding in shoes to take the pressure off the nerve, or taping the feet to redistribute body weight and ease inflammation. Medication and injections can also help relieve pain and pressure of this ailment. Custom orthotics can be made to provide support if one has an abnormal foot structure, such as flat feet or overlapping toes causing the condition. Surgery can be performed if a Morton’s neuroma becomes large or fails to be relieved with more conservative treatment options. Left untreated, a Morton’s neuroma can become worse. For this reason, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment that fits the severity of your specific foot problem.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Kellvan Cheng, DPM of Elite Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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 care needs.