An ankle injury can be a sprain or a break, and the difference matters for care. A sprained ankle occurs when ligaments, which hold bones together, are stretched or torn after a twist or roll. A broken ankle means one or more bones in the joint are cracked or fully broken, from a twist or force. Both injuries include pain, swelling, and bruising, which makes them hard to tell apart. A break may cause pain, trouble standing, or a change in ankle shape. A sprain may feel unstable or sore along the soft tissues. A podiatrist can perform an exam and use X-rays or other imaging to confirm the injury. Treatment may include bracing, immobilization, or other methods to support healing and restore movement. If you have injured an ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Arnold Farbstein, DPM from Texas. Our doctor 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 office located in Houston, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Psoriatic arthritis in the foot is an inflammatory condition linked to psoriasis that affects joints and surrounding tissues. It often appears with pain, tenderness, and swelling, especially in the toes and heel. Some people notice sausage like swelling of digits or thickened nails. The condition develops when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue, leading to joint damage over time. Triggers may include stress, injury, infection, or genetic factors. Symptoms can come and go in flares that vary in intensity. A podiatrist can evaluate joint changes, provide imaging, guide medication plans, and recommend supportive devices to improve function and reduce pain. Early diagnosis helps prevent deformity and long-term mobility problems in daily life. If you have this foot condition, It is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and management tips.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Arnold Farbstein, DPM from Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

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

Foot pain in seniors is a common issue that can affect balance and increase the risk of falling. Recurrent pain from conditions such as arthritis, nerve damage, or poor foot alignment can make walking feel unstable and uncomfortable. This pain may appear as aching, burning, or sharp discomfort that worsens with movement and leads to cautious or uneven steps. Over time, reduced confidence in walking can further raise the chance of falls. These issues often develop gradually due to aging, decreased strength, or long-term strain on the feet. When pain is reduced, stability and movement often improve. A podiatrist can assess foot structure, identify the source of discomfort, and provide treatment to improve balance and support safe walking. If you are elderly and have consistent foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide effective relief and additional fall 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 Arnold Farbstein, DPM from Texas. Our doctor 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 Houston, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Toe infections can begin when bacteria or fungi enter the skin through small openings, such as cuts, cracks, or irritated nail edges. Common infections include ingrown toenails and fungal nail conditions that affect the nail bed. The area may look red, swollen, and warm, and it can feel tender, sore, or throbbing. Some infections produce drainage, odor, or thickened and discolored nails. Discomfort may increase with walking or pressure from shoes, making daily activity more challenging. Causes often involve improper nail trimming, tight footwear, minor trauma, or damp environments that encourage growth of organisms. A podiatrist can identify the source of the infection and evaluate its severity. Treatment may involve careful cleaning and topical or oral medication. In some cases a minor procedure is needed to relieve pressure or remove affected tissue. If you suspect a toe infection, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Arnold Farbstein, DPM of Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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