Items filtered by date: October 2019

Many patients are aware they have broken their toe by the severe pain and discomfort they feel after something heavy is dropped on it. It may also become fractured if it has been stubbed against a piece of furniture. Additional symptoms can include a numbing or burning feeling, bruising, and walking can become difficult. In serious fractures, the bone may protrude from the skin, and there may even be excessive bleeding. Broken toes can occur as a result of a medical condition such as osteoporosis, where the bones may already be fragile. After a proper diagnosis is performed, which typically consists of having an X-ray taken, treatment can begin. If the toe is mildly broken, it can be taped to the toe next to it, and this may be helpful in providing additional support. This method is referred to as buddy taping. It is strongly recommended that you consult with a podiatrist who can correctly treat broken toes.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. James Kutchback from James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Research has indicated that approximately half of the population is affected with nail fungus, and it is most likely to occur in the toenails. It is caused by a fungal infection, and typically develops in the big toe. There are several symptoms that are associated with this ailment. These can include a yellowing of the nail, and it may appear brittle and dull. In severe cases, the nail may produce a foul odor, and can lift from the nail bed. The fungus that causes this contagious condition lives and thrives in warm and moist areas. These can consist of public swimming pools and locker room floors. There may be preventive measures that can be taken that can include wearing appropriate shoes while in these types of environments, in addition to wearing shoes and socks that are made of a breathable material. If you notice a toenail fungus is developing, it is suggested that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can offer you proper treatment techniques.

For more information about treatment, contact Dr. James Kutchback of James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

If the cuboid bone should shift from its normal location, it is known as cuboid syndrome. These particular bones are located on the outer edge of the foot. This ailment can happen as a result of an ankle sprain, or from repetitive motion that can come from running or participating in certain sporting activities. Common symptoms that are often associated with cuboid syndrome can include bruising, swelling, pain on the outside of the foot, and it may be difficult to walk. Patients may find moderate relief when the affected foot is elevated, in addition to practicing strengthening exercises. Additionally, the foot may feel better when it is taped, and this may be helpful in providing adequate support. If you have pain in this area of the foot, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can guide you toward proper techniques. 

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with Dr. James Kutchback from James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

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